Research Associate (Laurenti Lab) (Fixed Term)

University of Cambridge; Cambridge; On-site; GBP 31,000 - 38,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Cambridge invites applications for a Research Associate to join Prof Laurenti's group, studying the biology of human Haematopoietic Stem Cells (HSCs) across the lifespan using advanced experimental and computational methods. The successful candidate will lead independent experiments, contribute to the team, and may supervise master students.

A PhD in a relevant field and strong background in haematology, leukaemia and HSC biology are required.

Qualifications

• PhD in a relevant field.
• Strong background in haematology and leukaemia.
• Experience with flow cytometry, primary tissue culture and CRISPR editing.
• Experience with genomics data analysis.
• Publication record and funding track record desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead on the project and conduct experiments independently.
• Contribute to the larger team and assist others as required.
• Assist in supervising master-level students undertaking research projects.
• Communicate work in writing and oral presentations at meetings and conferences.

Skills

Flow cytometry

CRISPR editing

Genomics data analysis

Tissue culture

Haematology knowledge

Leukaemia knowledge

Animal models

Publication record

Education

PhD in a relevant field

Job description

Applications are invited for a research associate to join Prof Laurenti's research group. The team combine state-of-the-art experimental and computational methods to study the unique biological and molecular properties of human Haematopoietic Stem Cells (HSCs) across the lifespan. A specific area of interest aims to investigate how somatic mutations acquired by HSC in the first decades of life alter HSC function and predispose to blood cancers and other age-related diseases.

The post holder will lead a project centred on how mutations in the coding and non-coding areas of transcription factors confer HSCs with a selective advantage and predispose to leukaemia. The scope of the project is to identify cellular and molecular mechanisms and novel therapeutic vulnerabilities for early intervention or even prevention of blood cancers.

The successful candidate is expected to lead on the project and conduct experiments independently. They will contribute to the larger team and will assist other lab members on communal task as/when required. They will also effectively communicate their work in writing and oral presentations at internal meetings and conferences. They may also assist in the supervision of master-level students undertaking research projects in the team.

Candidates should hold a PhD in a relevant field. They will have a strong background in haematology, leukaemia (including clinical/translational aspects) and HSC biology. Extensive experience with flow cytometry, primary tissue culture (ideally with HSCs) and CRISPR editing in primary human cells is required. The candidate should also possess expertise with analysis of genomics data. Familiarity with studying transcription factors and experience with animals models desirable. Finally, they will have demonstrated scientific achievement with an excellent publication record. Proven track record of securing own funding is desirable.

The start date is November 1st 2026.

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available until 31 October 2027 in the first instance.

Once an offer of employment has been accepted, the successful candidate will be required to undergo a basic disclosure (criminal records check) check.

Appointment at Research Associate level is dependent on having a PhD. Those who have submitted but not yet received their PhD will initially be appointed as a Research Assistant (Grade 5, Point 38 £34,132) moving to Research Associate (Grade 7) upon confirmation of your PhD award.

Applicants must have (or be close to obtaining) a PhD.

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.