Senior Scientific Associate (Fixed Term)

University of Cambridge; Cambridge; On-site; GBP 34,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

The Crossley Research Group at the Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute is seeking an experienced researcher to join a dynamic team working on RNA–DNA hybrids (R-loops) and their role in genome instability and inflammation. The role blends hands-on experiments with opportunities to drive new directions and support laboratory operations.

You will work with colleagues to advance projects to publication, contribute to methodological development, and, if desired, lead your own projects under

Qualifications

• PhD in molecular biology or a closely related field.
• Experience in mammalian cell culture and biochemical techniques.
• Strong data management, record-keeping and laboratory practice.

Responsibilities

• Carry out hands-on experimental research across projects focusing on RNA–DNA hybrids (R-loops).
• Collaborate with group members and external partners to advance projects to publication.
• Help establish new research directions and methodologies; contribute to lab operations and management.

Skills

Molecular biology

Cell culture

CRISPR/Cas gene editing

qPCR

Immunofluorescence

Flow cytometry

Bioinformatics

Genomics

Education

PhD in molecular biology or related field

Tools

CRISPR/Cas9

NGS library preparation

Immunoprecipitations

Job description

Join the Crossley Research Group at the Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, where we investigate RNA-DNA hybrid molecules known as R-loops and their role in human disease. Our research focuses on understanding how R-loops contribute to genome instability and inflammation, and how these molecules and the cellular responses they trigger can be harnessed for cancer detection and treatment. To learn more about the group, visit: https://www.cruk.cam.ac.uk/research-groups/crossley-group/

We are looking for an experienced, scientifically driven and collaborative researcher to join our growing team. This role combines hands-on experimental research with opportunities to contribute to scientific support activities and laboratory operations. You will work closely with colleagues to advance projects through to publication, help establish new research directions and methodologies, and, if desired, take the lead on your own projects. You will also partner with our Senior Scientific Associate, Dr Mawer, to support the day-to-day management and smooth running of the laboratory.

What You’ll Be Doing

Working across a range of cutting-edge research projects, you will use techniques including:

• Molecular biology, such as cloning, western blotting, human cell culture, CRISPR/Cas gene editing, lentiviral infection and qPCR.
• RNA and nucleic acid biochemistry, including RNA/DNA and RNA-DNA hybrid isolation, immunoprecipitations and pull-down assays.
• Immunofluorescence microscopy and flow cytometry.
• Genomics approaches, including next-generation sequencing (NGS) library preparation and bioinformatics analysis.

About You

We are particularly interested in candidates with strong molecular biology and biochemistry expertise, alongside experience in mammalian cell and/or tissue culture.

• Genome stability
• RNA biology
• Chromatin biology
• Innate immunity
• Cancer biology

Experience with next-generation sequencing and/or bioinformatics would be advantageous but is not essential.

Beyond technical expertise, we are seeking someone who enjoys working collaboratively, both within the group and with external partners. You should be organised, detail-oriented and committed to maintaining high standards of data management, record keeping and laboratory practice. A proactive, positive approach to problem-solving and a willingness to support colleagues are highly valued.

With significant long-term funding recently secured, this is an exciting opportunity to join and help shape a growing research group at an important stage of its development.

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 18 months 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, a health assessment and a security check.

The closing date for applications is: 15th September 2026

The interview date for the role is: To be Confirmed

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.