The Rayner Laboratory at the Cambridge Institute for Medical Research is recruiting a Research Associate to work on a project that combines Plasmodium knowlesi parasite culture and experimental genetics to perform systematic screens to understand malaria gene function. Focusing on antimalarial drug resistance and mechanisms of action, you will perform large-scale random mutagenesis screens using piggyBac transposons and select for specific phenotypes using drug pressure or novel phenotyping platforms. As the project is already underway and has a short delivery timeline, we are looking for someone with extensive experience in the relevant techniques.
To hit the ground running, the successful candidate will need multiple years of experience specifically in culturing and transfecting Plasmodium knowlesi parasites using both random and targeted genetic approaches, in performing phenotyping and screening assays with Plasmodium knowlesi parasites, and in analysing and interpreting sequencing-related outputs from large-scale genetic screens. You will also have working knowledge of UK biosafety regulations and restrictions in order to allow you to work immediately in the CL3 malaria parasite culture laboratory. Your primary focus will be on carrying out outstanding academic research leading to impactful papers, providing substantial scope for innovation, creativity and scientific judgement.
You will work as part of a vibrant interdisciplinary team and in close collaboration with partners and colleagues in the Cambridge Institute for Medical Research. You are expected to contribute to the collaborative team environment, supporting and training others where needed, and you will present your work at both internal and external academic events.
The Cambridge Institute for Medical Research (CIMR) is located on the Cambridge Biomedical Campus and it is a collaborative institute at the interface between fundamental research and the clinic, with a mission to determine the molecular mechanisms of disease in order to advance human health.
Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available until 30 June 2026 in the first instance.
Once an offer of employment has been accepted, the successful candidate will be required to undergo a health assessment.
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Applicants must have (or be close to obtaining) a PhD.
Please ensure that you upload a covering letter and CV in the Upload section of the online application. The covering letter should outline how you match the criteria for the post and why you are applying for this role. If you upload any additional documents which have not been requested, we will not be able to consider these as part of your application.
Please include details of your referees, including email address and phone number, one of which must be your most recent line manager.
Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available until 30 June 2026 in the first instance.
Once an offer of employment has been accepted, the successful candidate will be required to undergo a health assessment.
Please quote reference SG41964 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.
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.
Further informationC.I.M.R. Clinical Biochemistry
Salary£36,024-£44,263
ReferenceSG41964
CategoryResearch
Published6 June 2024
Closing date20 June 2024