Job opportunities at Gurdon and Milner Therapeutics Institutes

We are looking for a highly motivated post-doctoral scientist to join the laboratory of Dr. Sumru Bayin at the Gurdon Institute, University of Cambridge. You will work in the Bayin Lab to explore the molecular mechanisms that regulate the regenerative potential of stem cells in the brain during development and in adulthood using various techniques including but not limited to single cell genomics, and in vivo and in vitro stem cell assays, organoid models and mouse genetics.

The Bayin Lab is interested in identifying the molecular mechanisms that regulate self-renewal, differentiation and plasticity of neural stem/progenitor populations during development and homeostasis, in order to discover how to stimulate repair of the brain upon injury. The cerebellum, which is a folded hindbrain structure that is important for skilled motor movements and higher order cognitive functions, has emerged as a powerful system to study the regenerative responses in the brain. We have previously shown that the cerebellum can recover from the loss of at least two types of neurons via distinct regenerative mechanisms (Wojcinski, Nature Neuroscience, 2017; Bayin, eLife, 2018; Bayin, Science Advances, 2021, Bayin and Joyner, Development, 2022). However, the full repertoire of molecular and cellular mechanisms that regulate neonatal cerebellar development and injury response remain to be studied.

Importantly, the regenerative potential of the neonatal cerebellum dramatically decreases once development ends, despite the presence of stem-like cells in the adult mouse cerebellum. This project involves using in vivo and in vitro approaches to identify mechanisms that control the developmental and regenerative responses of cerebellar progenitors in neonates and determine how it differs in adults in order to understand how we can facilitate efficient repair after injury to the brain. A variety of other projects on neural stem cell biology during brain development and pathologies are possible, depending on the candidate's interest and background.

Applicants must have (or expect to obtain) a PhD (or equivalent) in biological sciences, preferably in cell, developmental biology or in genetics. A background and/or interest in bioinformatics is desired. Importantly, we are looking for a highly motivated and enthusiastic team member who is a critical thinker and can work independently, and have excellent communication skills with the ability to work collaboratively within and outside of the laboratory, and promote positive research culture within the laboratory.

Our lab is funded by a Wellcome Career Development Award and the Royal Society and is a part of the vibrant research community at the University of Cambridge. Successful candidates will have access to career development activities and additional training opportunities offered by the School of Biological Sciences.

The salary range if appointed as a Research Associate is Grade 7 £36,024-£44,263 per annum, and the salary range if appointed as Research Assistant is Grade 5 £32,982 per annum with promotion to Research Associate on attainment of PhD.

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available until 30 June 2025 in the first instance.

Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.

Please quote reference PR38460 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.

We are seeking an enthusiastic Research Associate to study epithelial stem cell fate and tissue regeneration using a tissue engineering-type approach in a collaborative project led by Profs. Maria Alcolea (Cambridge Stem Cell Institute) and Benjamin Simons (Gurdon Institute).

The successful candidate will advance a multidisciplinary collaborative programme to i) reconstruct epithelial tissues ex vivo using a state-of-the-art long-term 3D Epithelioid culture method developed recently by Dr. Alcolea, and use this system to ii) study stem cell dynamics by combining fate mapping, live-imaging, and single-cell molecular profiling using quantitative methods pioneered by the Simons lab.

The aim will be to unveil the mechanisms governing epithelial stem cell behaviour in human and mouse with the long-term goal to develop strategies to improve tissue repair and prevent regenerative decay in ageing.

We welcome applications from candidates with experience in in vitro and/or in vivo experimental models, advanced image analysis, cellular/molecular biology, and interest in the epithelial stem cell field.

Alongside your core project, as a valued member of our team, you will be able to establish collaborative projects with other experimental scientists in the labs, as well as external collaborators. We are committed to supporting your career development and will provide mentoring and training opportunities to enhance your skills.

Applicants should have completed, or be close to completion of, a PhD in a relevant subject such as applied stem cell biology, development, 3D in vitro model systems, or cellular/molecular biology. The ideal candidate will show enthusiasm for epithelial biology, as well as a strong interest in underlying biological/disease processes. We are looking for a highly motivated individual capable of thinking and working independently, and as part of a dynamic and vibrant team.

Informal enquiries can be directed to Benjamin Simons (bds10@cam.ac.uk) and Maria Alcolea (mpa28@cam.ac.uk)

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 3 years in the first instance.

Please ensure that you upload a covering letter and a CV in the Upload section of the online application. The covering letter should outline in brief your interest in the role and the skills that you would bring to the project. If you upload any additional documents that have not been requested, we will not be able to consider these as part of your application.

Please include details of up to three referees, including email address and phone number, one of which must be your most recent line manager.

The closing date for applications is: 8th October 2023.

The interview date for the role is: To be confirmed.

Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.

Please quote reference PR38371 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.

We are seeking a talented and motivated Research Associate in Computational Biology/Bioinformarics to investigate genomic regulatory mechanisms that underlie cellular state and decision making through application of single cell multiomics, transcriptomic, epigenomic, and chromatin interaction analyses.

You will join the Ahringer laboratory at the Gurdon Institute in the University of Cambridge. Our research programmes use the C. elegans model in which we apply powerful lineage resolved assays to decipher how eukaryotic gene expression is regulated across developmental trajectories (http://www.ahringer.group.gurdon.cam.ac.uk/).

You will investigate genomic regulatory mechanisms in close collaboration with experimental colleagues, using existing cutting-edge software or devising new methods to analyse a diverse range of genomic and transcriptomic data. You will lead computational projects and contribute to the supervision of students, providing an ideal opportunity to develop an independent scientific career.

You will ideally have a strong background in bioinformatics and statistics and prior experience in the analysis of a range of high-throughput data (e.g., ChIP-seq, transcriptomic, chromatin interaction, and single cell data). You should also have a PhD in a relevant subject, a sound understanding of molecular biology, and a strong publication track record in bioinformatics. You will be expected to be able to work independently and interact well in a dynamic multidisciplinary team environment and be able to communicate ideas and results clearly.

We are located in the Gurdon Institute, a world-renowned centre of Developmental biology and Cancer research embedded in the University of Cambridge. The Institute provides an exceptional and stimulating environment that promotes collaborative and interdisciplinary research in a supportive and modern setting, with access to state-of-the-art technologies such as super-resolution imaging, single-cell analyses, genome engineering, and genomics and computer modelling. Its postdoc association encourages scientific and social interactions and also provides career development and teaching opportunities.

Please ensure that you upload a covering letter and CV (including the names of three referees) in the Upload section of the online application. The covering letter should outline why you are interested in the post.

If you have any questions about this vacancy or the application process, please contact hr@gurdon.cam.ac.uk. If you would like to know more about the role and projects, please contact Prof. Julie Ahringer ja219@cam.ac.uk.

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 2 years in the first instance.

Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.

Please quote reference PR37950 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.

We are thrilled to announce an exceptional opportunity for a highly motivated and talented Postdoctoral Researcher to join Dr David Fernandez-Antoran's team at The Gurdon Institute - University of Cambridge.

This exciting two-year position is focused on investigating the role of environmental factors in the mutational burden of epithelial tissues and developing innovative interventions to shape cell competition outcomes.

What We Offer:

-State-of-the-Art 3D Cultures: Work with our cutting-edge 3D primary culture system for mouse and human epithelial tissues (Epithelioids), creating a realistic in vitro environment for your research.

-Confocal Imaging: Utilise advanced confocal microscope techniques to visualise cellular responses and interactions, taking your research to new levels of precision and clarity.

-Access to cutting-edge DNA sequencing technology to explore genetic changes at an unprecedented level, enabling a deeper understanding of mutational dynamics and tissue responses.

Your Role and Responsibilities:

As a Postdoctoral Researcher in the Fernandez-Antoran's lab, you will be at the forefront of investigating the influence of environmental factors on mutant cell behaviour on mouse and human epithelial tissues in vitro. You will be actively involved in designing and conducting experiments, utilizing our unique 3D cultures, confocal imaging, and cutting-edge DNA sequencing to gain insights into cell competition mechanisms. Your findings will contribute to the development of novel drug interventions aimed at shaping favourable outcomes in cell competition scenarios.

Why Join Us:

Dynamic Research Environment: Be part of a collaborative and driven research team, working in a vibrant and intellectually stimulating atmosphere. State-of-the-Art Facilities: Access cutting-edge equipment and resources to support your innovative research endeavours. Career Development: We are committed to fostering your professional growth, supporting your attendance at conferences and courses.

Qualifications and Requirements:

You should have a PhD in a relevant subject (e.g., Molecular Biology, Cancer Biology, Genetics, or related disciplines), or be close to completion. Strong background in working with mouse / human epithelial tissues and 3D cultures. Proficiency in confocal imaging techniques and DNA sequencing technologies. Demonstrated ability to design and execute experiments independently. Excellent communication skills and a passion for scientific exploration.

The salary range if appointed as a Research Associate is Grade 7 £36,024-£44,263 per annum, and the salary range if appointed as Research Assistant is Grade 5 £32,982 per annum with promotion to Research Associate on attainment of PhD.

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 2 years in the first instance.

Interested candidates should submit their application online, including a cover letter, CV and contact information for three referees. Please highlight your relevant experience and why you are excited about this research opportunity in your cover letter.

Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.

Please quote reference PR37906 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.

We are seeking a highly motivated full-time Senior Research Assistant to join Dr David Fernandez-Antoran's team at the Gurdon Institute, University of Cambridge.

The successful candidate will work with our innovative and long-term 3D primary culture of mouse and human epithelial tissues (Epithelioids) and utilise advanced confocal microscope techniques for analysis. As an integral part of our team, you will play a crucial role in driving projects to successful completion.

Key Responsibilities:

Set up and maintain mouse and human 3D Epithelioid cultures. Conduct experimental and analytical work on diverse projects, as required. Master and maintain lab protocols using an electronic lab book and prepare common reagents. Provide technical guidance and training to new lab members. Actively participate in regular group meetings and other group activities. As a valued member of our team, you will have access to a wide range of training opportunities, including state-of-the-art 3D in vitro tissue culture, live imaging using confocal microscopy, DNA isolation, molecular and radiation biology, and collaboration with various researchers in the lab at different project stages. We are committed to supporting your career development and will provide opportunities for enrolling in professional courses to enhance your skills while in this role.

The successful candidate should demonstrate exceptional attention to detail and possess excellent organisational, communication, and teamwork skills. Previous experience and a solid understanding of working in research labs are essential, and prior lab technician experience would be desirable.

This position offers an excellent opportunity for experienced technicians seeking to work in a dynamic and vibrant team. You will contribute to high-quality research and provide proactive support to our ongoing projects.

We are eager to fill this position as soon as possible. If you are passionate about cancer research and keen to join our team, please apply with your updated CV and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and interest in this role.

For informal enquiries, please feel free to contact Dr David Fernandez-Antoran via the email df336@cam.ac.uk

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 2 years in the first instance.

Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.

Please quote reference PR37910 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.

We are looking for a talented and motivated postdoctoral scientist to join the lab of Dr Emma Rawlins.

The Rawlins lab studies lung development and lung stem cells with a particular focus on using human models to study cellular and molecular mechanisms controlling development and repair. We have recently developed a series of innovative human lung organoid models and accompanying CRISPR tools which will further enable the study of human lung development and disease.

This position is part of a Wellcome-funded highly collaborative UK-based project: the Human Developmental Biology Initiative (www.hdbi.org). The HDBI aims to develop enabling technology for the study of human development with a focus on lineage-analysis. The HDBI benefits from the UK's well-established system for collecting and distributing human foetal tissue for research, the MRC/Wellcome Human Developmental Biology Resource (http://www.hdbr.org). The specific project will focus on cell lineage analysis in the context of morphogenesis in the developing human lung and relies on a physiologically-mimetic culture system recently developed by the lab. There will be excellent scope for innovation and direction-setting, focusing on the overall aim of understanding lung morphogenesis. We would be particularly interested in hearing from applicants with expertise in live-imaging, image-analysis, quantitative analysis, or physical/mechanobiology.

You should be passionate about developmental/stem cell biology, be willing to tackle difficult problems and be able to develop novel experimental approaches to answer outstanding questions. While prior experience with microscopy, image analysis, or mechanobiology approaches would be advantageous, an eagerness to learn and to exploit and develop innovative methods is the critical requirement. You will play a key role in a highly collaborative research programme, so a friendly and collegial attitude is essential.

You should have a PhD in a relevant subject, or be close to completion of your degree.

The salary range if appointed as a Research Associate is Grade 7 £35,308-£43,155 per annum, and the salary range if appointed as Research Assistant is Grade 5 £32,411 per annum with promotion to Research Associate on attainment of PhD.

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 2 years in the first instance.

Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.

Please quote reference PR37718 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.

We are looking for an enthusiastic and technically skilled full-time Research Assistant to join Dr. Sumru Bayin's lab at the Gurdon Institute, University of Cambridge. The successful candidate will be involved in molecular and cellular studies to investigate the regulatory mechanisms that govern neural stem cells during development and upon injury to the brain by utilizing primary cultures and in vivo mouse models, as well as histology and next generation sequencing approaches.

Laboratory experience in mouse models, mammalian cell culture and molecular biology techniques are essential. Expertise in general areas of stem cell biology, confocal microscopy, flow cytometry and DNA/RNA/Protein isolation/analysis, would be desirable for this position.

The main duties will involve colony management of the mouse models, histology (tissue collection, preservation, sectioning and staining) and generation of primary cell cultures. Other responsibilities will include ordering responsibilities, preparation of reagents, maintenance of stocks and assisting in the day-to-day running of the laboratory.

For more information about the laboratory please visit www.bayinlab.com.

The ability to work both independently and as part of a team, coupled with excellent communication, organizational and problem solving skills is required.

Informal enquiries can be made to Sumru Bayin at the email sumrubayin@gurdon.cam.ac.uk.

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 2 years in the first instance.

Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.

Please ensure that you upload a covering letter and CV (including the names of two people who can provide a letter of reference) in the Upload section of the online application. The covering letter should outline your research interests and why you are interested in the post.

If you have any questions about this vacancy or the application process, please contact hr@gurdon.cam.ac.uk.

The position is available immediately.

Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.

Please quote reference PR37636 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.

We are looking for an enthusiastic full-time Research Assistant to join Dr. Fengzhu Xiong's team at the Gurdon Institute, University of Cambridge.

The successful candidate will be involved in studies of cell dynamics and tissue morphogenesis during embryo development using molecular, cellular, physical and theoretical approaches.

The candidate will work closely with the PI and researchers in the lab to assist the completion of projects. As a member of an interdisciplinary team, they will have the opportunity to receive training in a variety of techniques including biochemistry, molecular biology, embryology, imaging, computation and biophysics by working with different researchers in the lab at proper stages of the projects and receive co-authorship credits on publications. Furthermore, the candidate will receive support if they wish to take on career development activities including appropriate professional courses while in the role. This is an excellent opportunity for aspiring entry stage scientists looking to boost their career profile, as well as for more experienced technicians seeking potential long-term stability in a vibrant team by delivering high-quality and proactive support.

It is essential that the candidate is detail-oriented and has excellent communication and teamwork skills. Experience and a good understanding of working in research labs are required. Prior lab technician experience is desirable.

Main duties will include: Perform experimental and analysis work on different projects depending on project needs; Master and maintain lab protocols and prepare common reagents; Coordinate with the Lab Manager; Provide technical guidance and training to new lab members; Participate in regular group meetings and other group activities.

Informal enquiries can be made to Fengzhu Xiong via fx220@cam.ac.uk

The position is available immediately.

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 2 years in the first instance.

Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.

Please quote reference PR37170 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.

The Milner Therapeutics Institute (MTI) is seeking to recruit a Research Laboratory Technician to support the running of the institute. The MTI is a purpose-built research Institute located on the Cambridge Biomedical Campus. The MTI is unique working environment, with start-up businesses, academics and pharma companies working side by side across shared office and laboratory space. The overarching vision of the MTI is to convert pioneering science into therapies. The Institute delivers this through its aims to connect industry and academia, enable and drive collaborative research and accelerate therapeutic companies.

This is an exciting opportunity for a motivated individual to support the maintenance of the Institute, to ensure research is delivered effectively. Also, to become part of a pioneering, forward-thinking and strategic workforce, that is continuously evolving and growing.

The Research Laboratory Technician (RLT) reports to Assistant Facilities Coordinator (AFC) within the Scientific Facilities Team (SFT). The RLT role provides key support to a diverse mix of industry and academic research groups which come together in the MTI towards the overarching vision. This support includes maintaining consistent and safe availability of all key equipment, consumables and spaces required by the researchers (50-60% individuals time will be ensuring laboratories are clean and functional). These requirements are subject to regular change, as MTI occupancy refreshes. There are systems and processes established to enable this objective to provide support, and the RLT works with the AFC and SFC to develop those processes for continuous improvement at this dynamic laboratory. The RLT must be aware of, follow and encourage compliance with various different frameworks for good practice. The role will also include a small amount administrative duties within the Scientific Facilities Team.

The position is open to candidates looking for full-time hours or part-time at 20 hours per week across Monday-Friday

For further information on responsibilities & person specification please look at the further particulars before applying.

The University of Cambridge is a signatory to the Technician Commitment and as such is focusing on the areas of recognition, visibility, career development and sustainability. The Milner Therapeutics Institute will support the right candidate with relevant training during the Research Lab Technicians career.

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 3 years in the first instance.

We welcome applications from individuals who wish to be considered for part-time working or other flexible working arrangements.

Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.

Informal enquiries can be directed to Ben Pearson, Assistant Facilities Coordinator bp452@cam.ac.uk

Please quote reference PR37113 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.