Research Associate (Creixell Group) (Fixed Term)

University of Cambridge; Cambridge; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading UK university is seeking a motivated postdoctoral researcher to develop peptide display technologies for targeting protein kinases. The role involves collaboration, independent research, and contributions to multiple projects within a dynamic lab environment. Candidates should hold a PhD in protein biochemistry or related fields and have a strong record of research publication. This position offers full funding and career development opportunities.

Qualifications

• PhD qualification must be received or imminent.
• At least one first-author research publication is required.
• Ability to work independently and take feedback.

Responsibilities

• Develop and use peptide display technologies to screen kinases.
• Contribute to technology deployment in signaling and therapeutics.
• Communicate findings effectively and present at meetings.
• Engage in mentoring and grant writing.

Skills

Molecular biology

Protein crystallography

Computational biology

Machine learning

Strong communication skills

Strong organizational skills

Education

PhD in protein biochemistry or related field

Job description

Overview

The Cancer Signaling and Therapeutics Lab, led by Group Leader Dr Pau Creixell, is part of the University of Cambridge - Cambridge Institute (CI). The CI is a collaboration between Cancer Research UK and the University of Cambridge, located on the Cambridge Biomedical Campus in Cambridge, UK. Our lab collaborates with over 350 researchers across 20 groups within the institute and is supported by world‑leading core facilities to maximize potential.

A postdoctoral position is available to a highly talented and motivated individual interested in developing and using our technologies, particularly peptide display, to screen tyrosine and serine protein kinases with the aim of better targeting them. The goal is to use the peptides as templates for targeting these kinases with small molecules. Our lab is developing technology for screening and computational interpretation of combinatorially complete libraries of mutant protein variants, with applications ranging from signaling to therapeutics. The position is funded through the Brain Tumour Charity and conducted in collaboration with Professor Bill Weiss (UCSF) and Professor Kevan Shokat (UCSF), who will contribute expertise in the follow‑on stage of the initial peptide screening.

Responsibilities

• Develop and use technologies, particularly peptide display, to screen tyrosine and serine protein kinases and contribute to targeting strategies with small molecules.
• Contribute to the screening and computational interpretation of combinatorially complete libraries of mutant protein variants.
• Develop and deploy these technologies in applications spanning signaling and therapeutics.
• Join a collaborative and highly motivated team within a top ranked university and research institute.
• Take part in project management, method development, data collection and analysis as part of a multidisciplinary environment.
• Communicate findings effectively; develop innovative experimental/computational approaches to answer research questions; present at internal and external meetings and conferences.
• Engage in mentoring and contribute to grant writing as part of the group’s development.

Qualifications

• PhD in protein biochemistry or a closely related field (received or imminent).
• At least one first‑author research publication (papers in submission or on BioRxiv acceptable).
• Experience in molecular biology, protein crystallography; computational biology or machine learning is advantageous.
• Ability to work independently and take feedback in a multi‑disciplinary team; strong communication and organizational skills.
• Demonstrated creative and independent work in the candidate’s area of expertise and strong presentation skills.

Application Process and Eligibility

• Fully funded position with opportunities to compete for external fellowships (e.g., Marie Curie, Human Frontiers, EMBO) with guidance from the lab.
• Once an offer is accepted, a basic disclosure (criminal records) check and a security check are required.
• Closing Date: 29th September 2025.
• Apply by clicking the 'Apply' button to register an account and submit your application online. Upload a covering letter and CV in the specified section. The covering letter should outline how you match the criteria and why you are applying. Do not upload unsolicited documents.
• Include referees with email and phone number, one of whom must be your most recent line manager. Quote reference SW47280 in your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

Additional Information

• The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.
• The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.