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Current jobs in the Department of Pathology at the University of Cambridge.
Updated: 28 min 18 sec ago

Research Assistant / Associate (Fixed Term)

Thu, 21/03/2024 - 00:00

We are seeking an enthusiastic and well-organised Research Assistant/Associate to join the group of Dr Valeria Lulla (https://www.path.cam.ac.uk/research/virology-division/lulla-group) at the Department of Pathology (Addenbrooke's campus). Our research is focused on investigating human intestinal pathogens that progress to infections of the central nervous system. We are a strong and diverse team of researchers spanning multiple scientific disciplines, including molecular virology, imaging, omics and organoid infection models.

This position, funded by the Wellcome Trust, offers an exciting opportunity to integrate organoid infection models and molecular virology methods with high-throughput imaging, sequencing and RNA/protein interactions methods, to obtain novel insights into intestinal virus biology.

Candidates should have a PhD, or expect to obtain one shortly, and have a strong track record in RNA/protein molecular biology. Where the successful applicant does not yet have a PhD, he/she will normally be appointed as a Research Assistant on the understanding that he/she will be appointed as a Research Associate upon successful completion of his/her PhD.

Relevant experience in RNA/protein molecular biology is essential. Knowledge of virology, biochemistry and handling biosafety level 2 material would be advantageous.

The successful candidate will use a wide range of techniques, including cloning and mutagenesis, construction of recombinant viruses and replicons, human intestinal organoid culture and infection assays, RNA/protein/organelle extraction and analysis, protein-protein and protein-RNA interaction assays, microscopy, high-throughput RNA-seq and ribosome profiling.

The duties/responsibilities of this post include developing and driving research objectives, preparing research results for presentation/publication, mentoring undergraduate and graduate students, delivering occasional seminars, acquiring new skills, keeping up with the scientific literature, using established procedures and developing new approaches, and maintaining accurate records of experiments and reagents.

Successful applicants will become an integral and valued member of a multidisciplinary group. The ability to work both independently and as part of a team, together with excellent communication and critical thinking skills are also essential. There are many professional development and training activities available via the university, and the successful applicant is encouraged to engage with such opportunities.

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 12 months in the first instance.

Once an offer of employment has been accepted, the successful candidate will be required to undergo a health assessment.

Applications are welcome from internal candidates who would like to apply for the role on the basis of a secondment from their current role in the University.

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

Specific queries may be directed to Dr Valeria Lulla (vl284@cam.ac.uk)

Please quote reference PK41010 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.

Categories: Latest Jobs

Domestic Assistant (Part Time, Fixed Term)

Mon, 18/03/2024 - 00:00

People are at the heart of everything we do at Pathology, so why not join our Central Services Domestic team as a Domestic Assistant (Part Time, Fixed Term). We can offer a welcoming work environment where you can feel valued, encouraged to develop, and supported to achieve your full potential.

You will support the Domestic Team in undertaking cleaning and portering services at the Downing Site of the Department of Pathology which will include cleaning laboratories, the library, toilets, the canteen and common room/areas to maintain the appearance of the Department to a high standard. Ideally you will have some relevant experience of laboratory or office cleaning, although an aptitude for this type of work is more important as full training will be provided. Good communication skills with the ability to follow written and verbal instructions, particularly regarding the safe use of chemicals, the ability to prioritise your workload with the minimum of supervision and to work both independently and as part of a team are essential.

What we Offer

Our Professional Services staff play a fundamental role in the School's academic vision of the pursuit of education and research at the highest levels of excellence. The University of Cambridge offers excellent benefits, extensive opportunities in a stimulating environment.

*The University salary structure includes automatic service-related pay progression in many of its grades and an annual cost of living increase. In addition to this, employees are rewarded for outstanding contribution through a number of regular pay progression schemes. Staff also benefit from a generous annual leave entitlement.

*The University offers employees a wide range of competitive benefits, from health care cash plans to childcare, a cycle to work scheme, to shopping and insurance discounts.

*University-led initiatives in the areas of equality, diversity and wellbeing include staff and students networks. These include the Women's Staff Network, the Disabled Staff Network, the Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic Staff Network, Parents and Carers and the LGBT+ Network. We also hold a wide range of Equality and Diversity events on a regular basis.

*Wellbeing at Cambridge is a University-wide initiative aiming at supporting and maximising the health and wellbeing of staff. It encompasses a network of Wellbeing Advocates, who provide guidance and general signposting about wellbeing issues, including mental or physical health and Dignity @ Work concerns.

*The University offer a range of family-friendly policies, including maternity, adoption and shared parental leave. In addition, workplace nurseries, childcare vouchers, a childcare salary sacrifice scheme and a high-quality holiday play scheme are available to help support University employees with caring responsibilities

Fixed Term: This position is available for 12 months.

Once an offer of employment has been accepted, the successful candidate will be required to undergo a health assessment.

Applications are welcome from internal candidates who would like to apply for the role on the basis of a secondment from their current role in the University.

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

Contact Caius Liu for an informal chat on cl870@cam.ac.uk and check out our website: https://www.path.cam.ac.uk/

Please quote reference PK40696 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.

Categories: Latest Jobs

Research Assistant/Research Associate x 2 (Fixed Term)

Mon, 11/03/2024 - 00:00

Applications are invited for two BBSRC-funded postdoctoral vacancy in molecular biology to join a multi-disciplinary team based at the Department of Pathology in Central Cambridge. The successful candidate will study RNA-structure dependent translational regulation in response to environmental changes.

Candidates should have a PhD, or expect to obtain one shortly, and have a strong track record in RNA-based molecular biology and/ research. Where the successful applicant does not yet have a PhD, he/she will normally be appointed as a Research Assistant on the understanding that he/she will be appointed as a Research Associate upon successful completion of his/her PhD.

Relevant experience in RNA molecular biology is essential. Knowledge of biochemistry, bioinformatics and handling biosafety level 2 material would be advantageous. The successful candidate will use a range of next-generation sequencing techniques including ribosome profiling as well as molecular biology techniques such as in vitro transcription/translation, recombinant protein expression and protein-protein or protein-RNA interaction assays.

Other possible duties include developing research objectives and proposals for own or joint research; conduct individual and collaborative research projects; write up research work for presentation and publication; assist in the preparation of proposals and applications to external bodies; plan the use of research resources, laboratories and workshops as appropriate; may be required to assist in the supervision of student projects, provide instructions to students and deliver seminars relating to own research area.

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 12 months in the first instance.

Once an offer of employment has been accepted, the successful candidate will be required to undergo a health assessment.

Applications are welcome from internal candidates who would like to apply for the role on the basis of a secondment from their current role in the University.

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

Informal enquiries may be directed to Dr Betty Chung (bcy23@cam.ac.uk)

Please quote reference PK40841 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.

Categories: Latest Jobs

NIHR Clinical Lecturer in Medical Virology

Wed, 28/02/2024 - 00:00

Applications are invited for a NIHR Clinical Lecturer in Medical Virology, Department of Pathology.

Based on the Cambridge Biomedical Campus, this post offers unrivalled opportunity to undertake high quality research within an outstanding academic and clinical environment. Applicants should be medically qualified, have full GMC registration, and an existing NTN/NTN(A) in Medical Virology.

If a number is not held, candidates will need to be clinically benchmark to be able to take up the post. Clinical benchmarking can be achieved through application for specialty training within the national recruitment window where the minimal appointable score must be achieved. Candidates are responsible for ensuring that their clinical application is submitted within the appropriate recruitment round to ensure that you are benchmarked before the date that the post needs to commence.

Candidates should hold MRCP and have evidence of achievement of Combined Infection Training (CIT) competences from a UK affiliated Programme or equivalent in line with GMC standards/Good Medical Practice. If an applicant is already on a combined ID/Medical Virology training curriculum, it is possible to apply, and if successful, continue/complete the combined training.

You are required to hold or have submitted a PhD/DPhil/MD at the time of your application, and be of the standing required for an appropriate honorary contract of service with the NHS LETB (specialist trainee/LETB). Candidates who have not submitted their PhD/MD at the time of application will not be considered.

This is a fixed term appointment for a maximum of 4 years or until you obtain CCT (subject to any extension that you apply for and be granted by NIHR, which can be for a maximum of 24 months).

Salary Scales

StR £39,260pa - £68,478pa

Nodal £43,923pa - £63,152pa

This appointment requires an Honorary Clinical Contract. This is an integrated appointment between the University and relevant NHS Trust / Body. You will therefore also be issued with an Honorary Clinical Contract by the NHS Trust / Body. You should be aware that if your contract with the NHS Trust / Body is terminated your employment with the University will be terminated, and vice versa.

You will require GMC registration, Licence to Practice and Medical Defence Cover for the duration of your appointment.

Candidates must be available to commence in post by 01 September 2024.

Fixed-term: 4 years.

This appointment requires an Honorary Clinical Contract.

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, CV, and completed additional information form 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.

Please quote reference PK40691 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.

Categories: Latest Jobs

Grants Administrator

Wed, 21/02/2024 - 00:00

People are at the heart of everything we do at Pathology, so why not join our professional services team as our Grants Administrator and start supporting excellence in research and education. We can offer a welcoming work environment where you can feel valued, encouraged to develop, and supported to achieve your full potential. You will provide financial support to the Grants Coordinator, Finance team and staff in order to support the efficient management of grants and grants related finance in the Department.

What we Offer

Our Professional Services staff play a fundamental role in the School's academic vision of the pursuit of education and research at the highest levels of excellence. The University of Cambridge offers excellent benefits, extensive opportunities in a stimulating environment.

  • The University salary structure includes automatic service-related pay progression in many of its grades and an annual cost of living increase. In addition to this, employees are rewarded for outstanding contribution through a number of regular pay progression schemes. Staff also benefit from a generous annual leave entitlement.

  • The University offers employees a wide range of competitive benefits, from health care cash plans to childcare, a cycle to work scheme, to shopping and insurance discounts.

  • University-led initiatives in the areas of equality, diversity and wellbeing include staff and students networks. These include the Women's Staff Network, the Disabled Staff Network, the Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic Staff Network, Parents and Carers and the LGBT+ Network. We also hold a wide range of Equality and Diversity events on a regular basis.

  • Wellbeing at Cambridge is a University-wide initiative aiming at supporting and maximising the health and wellbeing of staff. It encompasses a network of Wellbeing Advocates, who provide guidance and general signposting about wellbeing issues, including mental or physical health and Dignity @ Work concerns.

  • The University offer a range of family-friendly policies, including maternity, adoption and shared parental leave. In addition, workplace nurseries, childcare vouchers, a childcare salary sacrifice scheme and a high-quality holiday play scheme are available to help support University employees with caring responsibilities

Once an offer of employment has been accepted, the successful candidate will be required to undergo a health assessment.

Applications are welcome from internal candidates who would like to apply for the role on the basis of a secondment from their current role in the University.

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

Contact Fiona Craig for an informal chat on 01223 333693 or fcc21@cam.ac.uk and check out our website: https://www.path.cam.ac.uk/

Please quote reference PK40614 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.

Categories: Latest Jobs

University Assistant Professor Clinical Genetics

Wed, 21/02/2024 - 00:00

The University of Cambridge wishes to appoint a University Assistant Professor in Clinical Genetics (Honorary Consultant Status) within the Department of Pathology. The post is available immediately. The aim of the appointment is to strengthen the Department's basic and applied research and its teaching and training of undergraduate and graduate students, including clinical medical students.

The post is established within the Department of Pathology, which is both in the School of Biological Sciences and the School of Clinical Medicine, with association to medical genetics and the responsibilities associated with it include duties on behalf of the Clinical School. The successful candidate will be expected to develop and contribute to the activities of the Department and participate in the Clinical Genetics Service at Addenbrooke's Hospital. The themes of the applicants' diagnostic or clinical interests are not prescribed but should complement existing interests in the Departments as described on their websites (http://www.path.cam.ac.uk).

The successful candidate will be expected to pursue academic research at an international level of sufficient quality to be returnable in the Research Excellence Framework 2028, including developing a research group and attaining research funding. They will also be expected to contribute significantly to the strategic organization and delivery of the Clinical Pathology course alongside the current Lead Teacher for Clinical Pathology and also participate in teaching general pathology to second and third year undergraduates, leading to the Medical and Veterinary Sciences Tripos or the Natural Sciences Tripos.

The successful candidate will have clinical responsibilities within the Clinical Genetics Service of Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust at Addenbrooke's and must be eligible for an Honorary Consultant contract. Job plans for all full-time honorary consultants currently include a commitment to the NHS Trust for between 2 and 5 programmed activities per week, averaged over the year. The precise deployment of this time and its allocation to service delivery, continuing professional development, NHS research and development and other Trust-related activities is agreed on a regular basis through discussion with the NHS Clinical Lead and academic lead for Clinical Genetics, and will report to the Head of Department of Pathology, Professor Heike Laman.

Once an offer of employment has been accepted, the successful candidate will be required to undergo a health assessment. This appointment also requires an Honorary Clinical Contract.

Applications are welcome from internal candidates who would like to apply for the role on the basis of a secondment from their current role in the University.

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

Please provide a statement of interest/cover letter, CV and 2 references.

Please quote reference PK40606 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.

Categories: Latest Jobs

Research Associate (Fixed Term)

Tue, 20/02/2024 - 00:00

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Postdoctoral Researcher to join the Irigoyen Group in the Division of Virology at the University of Cambridge, working on cutting-edge science in Neuroscience and Virology.

About the Irigoyen Group (https://www.path.cam.ac.uk/research/virology-division/irigoyen-group):

Dr Nerea Irigoyen's research group aims to understand how the Zika virus lineages induce neuropathogenesis and neurotropism to answer which cellular pathways drive virus-induced pathogenesis, how host responses differ between different lineages and how these differences are linked to viral genetics.

The role:

The postdoctoral research associate will work on a Wellcome Trust-funded project that, in a comprehensive approach, will compare viral replication, viral gene expression, and host responses in a series of tractable models selected to reproduce the in vivo development of the human brain, including cerebral organoids in collaboration with Prof. Rangnhildur Thóra Káradottir and Dr Andras Lakatos. The post holder will combine RNA sequencing and ribosome profiling methods established in the Irigoyen lab to measure virus and host responses.

We also offer the opportunity to learn new skills for personal and professional development.

The ideal candidate:

Candidates should have a PhD in Neuroscience and/or Molecular Biology. Robust technical skills in stem cell culture, molecular biology and biochemistry are essential. Previous experience in virology, organotypic slice cultures, fluorescence microscopy, CRISPR-Cas9 or RNA-Seq is also desired. Please outline your experience in these areas in your cover letter.

Candidates should demonstrate an ability to perform and publish high-quality research that is commensurate with their career stage. The ability to work both independently as well as part of a team, coupled with excellent communication, organizational and problem-solving skills, are required. The duties/responsibilities of this post include developing and driving research objectives, preparing research results for presentation/publication, mentoring undergraduate and graduate students, delivering occasional seminars, acquiring new skills, keeping up with the scientific literature, using established procedures and developing new approaches, and maintaining accurate records of experiments and reagents.

Fixed-term: the funds for this post are available for 36 months in the first instance. Required visa costs will be covered .

Once an offer of employment has been accepted, the successful candidate will be required to undergo a health assessment.

Applications are welcome from internal candidates who would like to apply for the role on the basis of a secondment from their current role in the University.

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

Informal enquiries are encouraged and can be made to Dr Nerea Irigoyen (ni236@cam.ac.uk).

Please quote reference PK40570 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.

Categories: Latest Jobs

Bioinformatician in immunology (Fixed Term)

Thu, 15/02/2024 - 00:00

Join our team as a Bioinformatician!

The McGovern lab is seeking a talented and motivated Bioinformatics Research Associate to join their research group. Our research aims to understand how mononuclear phagocyte biology is altered in disease.

The McGovern Lab:

Our team focuses on characterising human mononuclear phagocytes, crucial immune cells distributed across all tissues in the body. These cells perform vital roles in tissue development and function, fighting infection and resolving inflammation. We utilise a range of technologies to develop our understanding of the ontogeny and function of these cells including proteomic, transcriptomic and epigenetic approaches. We utilise cells isolated from primary human tissue samples and organoid systems. As part of our team, you will contribute to ground-breaking research in understanding the properties of mononuclear phagocytes in both health and disease.

https://www.path.cam.ac.uk/research/immunology-division/mcgovern-group

https://www.mcgovernlab.com/

About the role:

You will analyse single cell and spatial transcriptomic data sets generated from human tissues to understand immune cells and their cross-talk with stromal cells in health and disease. You will be working with cell biologists across a range of fields including immunology, virology, microbiology, and clinicians to adapt, improve, and integrate existing software, to best answer the scientific questions of the research programme. You will also be encouraged to develop novel computational tools.

Your tasks

  • Design, implementation and application of single-cell and spatial transcriptomic analysis workflows.

  • Statistical analysis and data visualization.

  • Interaction and collaboration with researchers within the McGovern team.

    • Consultation regarding the planning and design of sequencing experiments.

    • Presentation and reporting of results.

    • Recommendation of publicly-available resources and tools.

  • Working in a team with bioinformatic and computational colleagues.

  • Training and supervision of undergraduate and PhD students.

Your profile

  • PhD in biology, bioinformatics, computational biology, computer science, statistics, mathematics, or any other related field.

    • Expertise in the analysis and visualization of single-cell and other types of high-throughput data (e.g., RNA-seq, ATAC-seq, ChIP-seq); experience with proteomics data is of advantage.

    • Knowledge of statistics.

    • Proficiency in programming, e.g. with R and Python.

    • Experience in machine learning.

    • Background in molecular biology concepts and an interest in immunology.

    • Passion for unravelling complex biological systems.

  • Excellent communication and presentation skills and fluency in written and spoken English.

    • Team player capable of adapting to a rapidly evolving and interdisciplinary research environment.

Why join us?

  • Contribute to cutting-edge immunology research with real-world implications.

  • Collaborate with experts across the fields of immunology, virology, microbiology, and clinicians.

  • Work in a supportive and collaborative environment that fosters professional growth.

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

Once an offer of employment has been accepted, the successful candidate will be required to undergo a health assessment.

Applications are welcome from internal candidates who would like to apply for the role on the basis of a secondment from their current role in the University.

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

Please provide a statement of interest/cover letter, CV and 2 references.

Please quote reference PK40549 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.

Categories: Latest Jobs

Research Associate (Fixed Term)

Wed, 07/02/2024 - 00:00

Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Associate position in the transmission of malaria parasites to start immediately through to 30th November 2025 in the first instance.

The successful candidate will join the laboratory of Dr Andrew Blagborough to investigate the fundamental cell biology of Plasmodium transmission and the generation of novel anti-malarial transmission blocking vaccines. The post will be within the Division of Microbiology & Parasitology, Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge.

The candidate should have completed a PhD level degree in cell biology, biochemistry or closely related field. In addition, the candidate should have demonstrable previous research lab experience with particular focus on the following elements:

Molecular biology and biochemistry: Experience with DNA cloning, western blot, immuno-precipitation, recombinant protein production in bacterial and mammalian systems (including experience with chromatography), and mass spectrometry.

Parasitology: Experience with culturing and maintenance of Plasmodium berghei parasite lines and generation and purification of sexual/transmission stages. Experience in transmission blocking assays. Familiarity with insectary work and ability to contribute to the maintenance of an Anopheles stephensi colony.

An active UK animal license and experience with the maintenance and generation of P. falciparum gametocyte stages would also be advantageous.

The candidate should also have good interpersonal and organizational skills, the ability to work with limited supervision and exercise initiative, the ability to prioritize his/her own work in response to deadlines, and experience in making effective presentations.

Once an offer of employment has been accepted, the successful candidate will be required to undergo a health assessment.

Applications are welcome from internal candidates who would like to apply for the role on the basis of a secondment from their current role in the University.

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

Any queries regarding this position should be directed to hr@path.cam.ac.uk or 01223 333940.

Please quote reference PK40382 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.

Categories: Latest Jobs

3-year PhD studentship (Fixed Term)

Wed, 31/01/2024 - 00:00

Applications are invited for a fully-funded 3-year studentship based in the Department of Pathology at the University of Cambridge under the supervision of Prof Nicholas Coleman and Dr Anton Enright.

**Project title: Investigating Alternative Splicing As A Driver Mechanism And Therapeutic Target In Squamous Cell Carcinoma**

Squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs) are common malignancies that arise at sites including the skin, aero-digestive tract and genitourinary tract. Despite different SCCs being associated with at least one carcinogenic insult (e.g. tobacco, human papillomavirus infection and UV damage), the drivers of SCC carcinogenesis remain largely elusive. Our lab is testing the hypothesis that aberrant RNA splicing is a central mechanism of carcinogenesis in SCCs. We have recently shown that splicing dysregulation in SCCs is not a passenger phenomenon, but likely constitutes a critical driver of oncogenesis, reflected by splicing aberrations in hallmark-related genes across SCC subtypes and a difference in splicing regulation compared with healthy tissues and other tumour types.

This studentship will allow us to advance our understanding of how splicing contributes to oncogenesis in SCC and whether it is a vulnerability that can be targeted therapeutically. Our objectives will be:

  1. Build an atlas of alternative splicing in SCC, using, single-cell RNA sequencing, bulk deep transcriptional profiling and bulk whole genome sequencing. All data will be processed using our bespoke splice-aware RNA-Seq pipelines. The datasets will be examined to characterize subtype-specific and cross-subtype splicing signatures, as well as signatures linked to known causative environmental factors, such as UV damage or human papillomavirus infection.

  2. Understand the co-evolution of aberrant splicing and progression of HPV16-associated SCC, using the unique cell line model W12.

  3. Characterise the role of the splicing factor serine/arginine-rich splicing factor 10 (SRSF10) in regulating oncogenic splicing in SCC, by tracking splicing changes following depletion of SRSF10 in SCC vs. adenocarcinoma and non-malignant cell lines.

Applications are welcome from internal candidates who would like to apply for the role on the basis of a secondment from their current role in the University.

This is a three year PhD studentship, funded by The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. It involves a combination of computational and wet lab research.

Applicants should hold (or expect to obtain) the equivalent of a UK 2.1 or higher in an undergraduate honours or Masters degree in a relevant subject such as molecular biology, genetics or computational biology. The studentship is open to those eligible for the Home rate of University fees. Applications should include academic transcripts, CV, statement of purpose and two references.

If you have any queries regarding the application process please contact postgrad@path.cam.ac.uk

Please quote reference PK40360 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.

Categories: Latest Jobs

Research Assistant (Fixed Term)

Wed, 31/01/2024 - 00:00

The University of Cambridge wishes to appoint a highly motivated Research Assistant to join the group of Dr Rahul Roychoudhuri at the Department of Pathology and assist in the running of a well-funded research lab of approximately 8-10 scientists.

The laboratory aims to better understand how immune function is dysregulated in cancer and inflammatory diseases using cutting-edge mouse models and cellular and molecular biology approaches. Our aim is to inform development of new immune-based therapies for patients with cancer and inflammatory disease.

You will be expected to oversee and provide technical support to the laboratory, alongside the group leader, and will contribute to laboratory management and general laboratory duties. You will be responsible for overall management of the laboratory's animal research programme, which includes managing the laboratory's transgenic mouse colonies using a fully implemented electronic colony management system, liaising with animal technicians, coordinating commercial genotyping of transgenic mice and directly assisting with in vivo experiments. You will closely interact with other researchers within and outside the lab and be involved in the design and implementation of experiments and development of new techniques and research areas. You will also be involved in assisting the group leader with specific administrative and laboratory management tasks and opportunities are available to develop in this role over the longer term.

Applicants must have a degree in Immunology, Molecular Biology, Cell Biology or a related discipline and experience of mouse research, including working with experimental mice, administration of substances and tissue dissection. You will join a young and dynamic group, whose core values include enthusiasm, openness and integrity.

Key responsibilities:

  • Contribute to the day-to-day running of the laboratory, including managing the laboratory's mouse colonies in communication with dedicated animal technicians. Assistance with design and implementation of mouse immunology experiments.

  • Overseeing and providing technical and administrative support to the lab, alongside the group leader. Conducting experiments that lead to development of new techniques and research areas. Contributing to supervision and training of other lab members.

  • Interacting closely with other researchers within and outside the lab and participating actively in development of research questions, experimental design and troubleshooting.

Essential criteria:

  • Independent, motivated and highly organized individual, who is passionate about science and keen to support the day-to-day coordination of a collaborative team of scientists.

  • Applicants must have a degree in Immunology, Molecular Biology, Cell Biology or a related discipline.

  • Experience of mouse research, including working with experimental mice, administration of substances and tissue dissection. Ability to learn and assimilate new techniques, and to train other researchers.

  • Demonstrate core values of team working, enthusiasm, openness and integrity.

Desirable criteria:

  • Interest in and aptitude of laboratory management and administration with the potential to develop in this role over the longer term.

  • Ability to perform, or eagerness to learn, mouse intravenous tail vein and other injections to assist new group members.

  • Good computing and data management skills.

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

Once an offer of employment has been accepted, the successful candidate will be required to undergo a health assessment.

Applications are welcome from internal candidates who would like to apply for the role on the basis of a secondment from their current role in the University.

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

For more information about the work of the laboratory, visit: http://roychoudhuri.path.cam.ac.uk

Informal enquiries about the position can be made by email to rr257@cam.ac.uk

Please quote reference PK40293 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.

Categories: Latest Jobs

Research Laboratory Technician (Fixed Term)

Fri, 26/01/2024 - 00:00

We have a new and unique position to join the laboratory of Prof Adrian Liston and Dr James Dooley as a Research Laboratory Technician within the Department of Pathology at the University of Cambridge (https://www.listonlab.uk/).

The Role

You will join a project that is based on recent characterisation of T cells within the mouse and human brain. This population includes both conventional T cells, with pro-inflammatory potential, and regulatory T cells, with anti-inflammatory capacity. We recently developed a therapeutic that uses this pathway to protect mice against traumatic brain injury. This project will humanise the therapeutic for clinical translation, with a focus on the translational outcome. You will support research that contributes to the optimisation of therapeutics for brain delivery to patients, as part of the commercialisation pathway for a recently developed neuroinflammation treatment.

The Team

You will join a dynamic and teamwork-focused laboratory, with ~15 laboratory members, spanning early career researchers to senior staff scientists. The team is led by co-PIs Adrian Liston and James Dooley. The laboratory is an inclusive, international and diverse team, supportive of your personal and career development. Embedded within the University of Cambridge, the team has access to cutting-edge facilities and resources. You will gain training in laboratory support techniques, including working with experimental mice, running behavioural assays on mice, tissue processing, flow cytometry and general laboratory preparation. The job will require animal experimentation and occasional flexibility in working hours. You will benefit from the collaborative and collegial environment of the laboratory, and potential career growth opportunities within the wider university, the laboratory and the developing spin-off company Aila Biotech (https://www.ailabiotech.com/).

About you

You are a willing and engaged learner, highly motivated to develop your own skill set and enthusiastic about working in a team. You have either a BSc/MPhil in immunology, neuroscience, or a related field, or experience in animal handling or basic laboratory experience. Experience with animal handling, flow cytometry, and cell culture techniques are a plus, however you are not expected to enter with the full range of skills. A current PIL is a strong asset. Strong verbal communication skills, attention to detail, the ability to work under the direction of a team leader, and self-reflection during learning are highly desirable. A positive approach to kind and collaborative interactions with the team is essential.

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

Once an offer of employment has been accepted, the successful candidate will be required to undergo a health assessment.

Applications are welcome from internal candidates who would like to apply for the role on the basis of a secondment from their current role in the University.

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

The Department and University are committed to a fostering an inclusive and diverse environment in a workplace that values and supports mutual respect and equality.

For more information on the work of the Liston-Dooley group, please visit https://www.listonlab.uk/. For informal enquiries, or to find out specific details about available projects in the laboratory, please email James Dooley at jd2045@cam.ac.uk

Please quote reference PK40257 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.

Categories: Latest Jobs

Microscopy Manager (Part Time, Fixed Term)

Thu, 25/01/2024 - 00:00

The Department of Pathology is one of the largest Departments within the School of the Biological Sciences with diverse cutting-edge research into genetic and infectious disease and the immune system.

The Department of Pathology microscopy facility houses several fluorescence microscopes, many of which can be used to image live infectious samples under containment, and a new state-of-the-art cryo-confocal microscope will be installed early 2024.

We seek an enthusiastic and talented individual to manage and develop our microscopy facility. The successful applicant will be responsible for supporting users of the facility, in particular related to imaging under containment and cryo-confocal sample preparation and imaging.

There is an expectation that the role holder will support and provide advice to a diverse range of research groups within the Department and across the wider School of the Biological Sciences to facilitate different imaging experiments, particularly for the cryo-confocal microscope and imaging under containment. They will co-ordinate use and maintenance of the specialised equipment as well as to contribute to new funding bids to expand and improve the imaging technology within the Department of Pathology microscopy facility. There will be opportunities for the role holder to develop skills and work with other microscopy technicians across the School of the Biological Sciences microscopy network.

Candidates should possess extensive experience in advanced microscopy techniques and a biological-sciences related background. A track record in, or an enthusiasm to learn, cryo-microscopy techniques would be advantageous, as would prior experience working in Containment Level 2 facilities.

This is a part-time position (18.5 hours per week, these hours can be flexible around business needs). Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 3 years in the first instance.

Once an offer of employment has been accepted, the successful candidate will be required to undergo a health assessment.

Applications are welcome from internal candidates who would like to apply for the role on the basis of a secondment from their current role in the University.

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

General enquiries regarding this position should be directed to hr@path.cam.ac.uk.

Please quote reference PK39382 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.

Categories: Latest Jobs

Post-doctoral Scientist in Neuroimmunology (Fixed Term)

Fri, 12/01/2024 - 00:00

We wish to recruit a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Scientist to join the laboratory of Prof Adrian Liston and Dr James Dooley within the Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge (https://www.listonlab.uk/).

This translational research project aims to develop novel technologies for treating neuroimmunology into clinic-ready molecules. The work would be suitable for a new PhD graduate who is motivated to develop new skills in both neuroimmunology and in commercialisation. You will contribute to the optimisation of therapeutics for brain delivery to patients, as part of the commercialisation pathway for a recently developed neuroinflammation treatment (Yshii et al, Nature Immunology 2022). The post is designed to result in scientific publications and patent applications. Potential avenues for further career development within the laboratory and within the developing spin-off company Aila Biotech (https://www.ailabiotech.com/) are possible for a successful post-holder.

The project is based on recent characterisation of T cells within the mouse and human brain (Pasciuto et al, Cell 2020). This population includes both conventional T cells, with pro-inflammatory potential, and regulatory T cells, with anti-inflammatory capacity. Recent advances demonstrated that the delivery of the cytokine IL2 to the brain allowed an expansion of the anti-inflammatory population of regulatory T cells, protecting mice against neuroinflammation in traumatic brain injury (Yshii et al, Nature Immunology 2022), ageing (Lemaitre et al, EMBO Molecular Medicine 2023) and other neuroinflammatory conditions. This project will humanise the therapeutic for clinical translation, with a focus on the translational outcome.

The successful applicant will join a dynamic and teamwork-focused laboratory, with ~15 laboratory members, spanning early career researchers to senior staff scientists. The team is led by co-PIs Adrian Liston and James Dooley. The laboratory is international, diverse, LGBTQ+ friendly, and supportive of the personal and career development of its members. Embedded within the University of Cambridge, the team has access to cutting-edge facilities and resources. The applicant will gain exposure to advanced experimental approaches in cellular immunology and mouse neuroimmunology including viral vector design, ultra-high parameter flow cytometry, imaging, mouse models of brain injury, behavioural assessment, and advanced analytical techniques. The job will require animal experimentation. The applicant will also have the opportunity to collaborate with lab members on a range of novel and exciting immunology and neuroimmunology projects. The applicant will benefit from the collaborative and collegial environment of the laboratory, the Division and the wider research community present in Cambridge.

The ideal candidate will be independent, highly motivated and enthusiastic, and have a recent Ph.D. or MD/PhD in immunology, neuroscience, or a related field. Experience with animal handling, flow cytometry, viral vectors, imaging and neuroscience techniques are a plus, however applicants are not expected to enter with the full range of skills. A track record of publications in peer-reviewed journals, strong analytical and problem-solving skills, written and verbal communication skills, and the ability to work independently as well as part of a team are desirable. A positive approach to kind and collaborative interactions with the team is essential.

For more information on the work of the Liston-Dooley group, please visit https://www.listonlab.uk/

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

Once an offer of employment has been accepted, the successful candidate will be required to undergo a health assessment.

Applications are welcome from internal candidates who would like to apply for the role on the basis of a secondment from their current role in the University.

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

For informal enquiries, or to find out specific details about available projects in the laboratory, please email Adrian Liston at al989@cam.ac.uk.

Please quote reference PK39757 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.

Categories: Latest Jobs

Research Assistant (Fixed Term)

Tue, 09/01/2024 - 00:00

We are seeking an enthusiastic and well-organised Research Assistant to join the group of Dr Valeria Lulla (https://www.path.cam.ac.uk/research/virology-division/lulla-group) at the Department of Pathology (Addenbrookes campus), University of Cambridge. Our research is focused on investigating human intestinal pathogens that progress to infections of the central nervous system. We are a strong and diverse team of researchers spanning multiple scientific disciplines, including molecular virology, imaging, omics and organoid infection models.

This position, funded by the Wellcome Trust, offers an exciting opportunity to integrate organoid infection models and molecular virology methods with high-throughput imaging, sequencing and RNA/protein interactions methods, to obtain novel insights into intestinal virus biology.

We are looking for a highly independent research associate with track record of timely project delivery, strong communication skills and an excellent work ethic. Candidates are expected to hold a BSc or MSc degree in Virology, Molecular Biology or a related discipline. Candidates should have experience with mammalian tissue culture, imaging and biochemical techniques. Prior experience with molecular virology, organoid culturing and working at biosafety level 2 is advantageous. A good understanding of molecular virology is desirable.

Successful applicants will become an integral and valued member of a multidisciplinary group. Responsibilities of the role include basic laboratory maintenance, establishing and validating cell lines and organoids, molecular cloning, viral infection experiments, data analysis, presentation and documentation. The ability to work both independently and as part of a team, together with excellent communication and critical thinking skills are also essential. There are many professional development and training activities available via the university, and the successful applicant is encouraged to engage with such opportunities.

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 12 months in the first instance.

Once an offer of employment has been accepted, the successful candidate will be required to undergo a health assessment.

Applications are welcome from internal candidates who would like to apply for the role on the basis of a secondment from their current role in the University.

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

Specific queries may be directed to vl284@cam.ac.uk (Dr Valeria Lulla).

Please quote reference PK40041 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.

Categories: Latest Jobs

PA to Head of Department and Departmental Administrator

Fri, 05/01/2024 - 00:00

People are at the heart of everything we do at Pathology, so why not join our professional services team as our PA to the Head of Department and Departmental Administrator and start supporting excellence in research and education. We can offer a welcoming work environment where you can feel valued, encouraged to develop, and supported to achieve your full potential.
The Department has an active programme of wellbeing events and opportunities to engage with colleagues across the department, School and wider University network.

You will provide a comprehensive PA service to the Head of Department and Departmental Administrator to ensure the efficient and effective management of their time and work. Ideally you will have some relevant PA / administrative experience with high competency in standard software packages, excellent organisational and communication skills, and the ability to remain calm under pressure to plan and prioritise an often diverse and changing workload. However, you will work within our friendly team, so will have a support network to help you along the way.

What we Offer

Our Professional Services staff play a fundamental role in the School's academic vision of the pursuit of education and research at the highest levels of excellence.

Benefits of working at Cambridge include:

*Competitive rates of pay with annual cost of living increases

*Generous paid annual leave allowance (including bank holidays)

*Generous maternity, adoption and shared parental leave entitlement and other family friendly schemes (e.g. workplace nurseries and salary exchange schemes for childcare)

*An auto-enrolment pension scheme, with a generous employer contribution

*Travel benefits and retail discounts at over 2,000 local and national stores

*Schemes to support with relocation / the provision of accommodation

The University of Cambridge is committed to supporting our staff to thrive both professionally and personally. We aim to support a good work/life balance, whilst retaining the positive aspects of our unique in-person environment and culture. Elements of this role are suitable for hybrid working, where staff can split their time between in-person collaboration and remote working. The frequency of the remote elements of the role can be discussed with the recruiting manager.

*University-led initiatives in the areas of equality, diversity and wellbeing include staff and students networks. These include the Women's Staff Network, the Disabled Staff Network, the Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic Staff Network, Parents and Carers and the LGBT+ Network. We also hold a wide range of Equality and Diversity events on a regular basis.

*Wellbeing at Cambridge is a University-wide initiative aiming at supporting and maximising the health and wellbeing of staff. It encompasses a network of Wellbeing Advocates, who provide guidance and general signposting about wellbeing issues, including mental or physical health and Dignity @ Work concerns.

Once an offer of employment has been accepted, the successful candidate will be required to undergo a health assessment.

Applications are welcome from internal candidates who would like to apply for the role on the basis of a secondment from their current role in the University.

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

Contact Fiona Craig for an informal chat on 01223 333693 or fcc21@cam.ac.uk and check out our website: https://www.path.cam.ac.uk/

Please quote reference PK39980 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.

Categories: Latest Jobs

4-year PhD studentship

Wed, 20/12/2023 - 00:00

Understanding Human Cytomegalovirus Latency to Target the Latent Reservoir.

Human Cytomegalovirus (HCMV) is a herpesvirus carried in a 'latent' state by the majority of the world's population. HCMV infection is a leading cause of birth defects, and viral 'reactivation' from latency causes death and disease in immunocompromised patients. However, there are few preventive or therapeutic options for HCMV. The outcome of infection is largely determined by the structure and function of chromatin that forms on the double-stranded DNA of herpesviruses in infected cells. This PhD project will address the chromatin-based molecular mechanisms that control HCMV latency and reactivation with a view to translating these findings into novel antiviral approaches.

Human Cytomegalovirus (HCMV) is a herpes virus carried by the majority of the world's population in a dormant state known as 'latency'. HCMV infection is largely asymptomatic in immunocompetent individuals, but viral 'reactivation' from latency causes death and disease in unborn children and immunocompromised individuals, including solid organ and stem cell transplant recipients. There is no vaccine for HCMV and the antiviral drugs used for treatment are toxic, have carcinogenic and teratogenic potential, select for resistant strains, and do not target the latent virus.

Our work has shown that the double-stranded DNA genome of HCMV associates with histone proteins and forms chromatin in infected cells. The organisation and modification of viral chromatin controls HCMV latency and reactivation through mechanisms that remain unclear. The viral major immediate-early (IE) promoter (MIEP), which drives HCMV reactivation, is repressed during latency by chromatin-based mechanisms. Pharmacological agents that target chromatin at the MIEP have therapeutic potential. For example, premature activation of the MIEP using histone deacetylase inhibitors leads to the expression of IE proteins that expose cells to clearance by the adaptive immune system ('shock-and-kill' strategy). Conversely, compounds that inhibit induction of the MIEP can prevent viral reactivation from latency ('block-and-lock' strategy).

The scholarship will support a joint PhD project between the University of Cambridge and the University of St Andrews, based in Cambridge. The student will use cutting-edge technology to investigate the dynamic organisation of HCMV chromatin during latency and reactivation. The new insights will be used to develop innovative 'shock-and-kill' and 'block-and-lock' concepts of antiviral therapy. Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 4 years in the first instance.

Applications are welcome from internal candidates who would like to apply for the role on the basis of a secondment from their current role in the University.

General queries should be directed to postgrad@path.cam.ac.uk

Please quote reference PK39924 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.

Categories: Latest Jobs

4-year PhD studentship

Wed, 20/12/2023 - 00:00

Determine how macrophages defend the placenta from infection.

The placenta, the first organ the fetus makes, is the interface between the mother and baby. A normally functioning placenta is crucial for successful pregnancy. Macrophages are key to the healthy function of organs, adopting specific properties to meet the needs of the tissue where they reside. Through this project the applicant will study how the unique properties of placental macrophages are determined by their local microenvironment, and the importance of these regulatory events in their response to infection. This project will involve the use of innovative techniques including organoid cultures and single-cell RNA sequencing.

This is an opportunity for a talented student to join the interdisciplinary laboratory of Dr. Naomi McGovern located at the Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge. The McGovern laboratory has a long-standing interest in understanding macrophage ontogeny and function across a range of tissues, including the placenta. The successful applicant will work as part of a collaborative team of scientists from the McGovern lab. The applicants project will be focused on developing our understanding of placental macrophage biology in the context of infection. Macrophages are the only immune cells found in placenta and are thus likely to protect the baby from any pathogens infecting the mother during pregnancy. With this studentship, the applicant will determine how the unique properties of placental macrophages are determined by their local microenvironment, and the importance of these regulatory events in the context of infection.

Over the course of the project, the successful applicant will utilise a range of cutting-edge technologies including single cell transcriptomic sequencing, spatial transcriptomics, and organoid assays.

Preferred skills/knowledge:

The ideal candidate would have a strong background in immunology, with a keen interest in learning bioinformatics and studying host-pathogen interactions. The successful candidate is expected to drive their own independent research project while also working closely with other team members. Excellent communication, record keeping, organisational, time-management and problem-solving skills are required. The project will involve human placental tissue. No prior experience in these areas is required as all necessary training will be provided, but a willingness to learn is essential.

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 4 years in the first instance.

Applications are welcome from internal candidates who would like to apply for the role on the basis of a secondment from their current role in the University.

General queries should be directed to postgrad@path.cam.ac.uk

Please quote reference PK39926 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.

Categories: Latest Jobs

4-year PhD studentship

Wed, 20/12/2023 - 00:00

Determining the membrane integration mechanisms of bacterial virulence proteins

Bacterial transmembrane effectors (TMEs) are essential for pathogenesis during infection of eukaryotic host cells. However, how these virulence proteins insert into membranes following delivery into host cells remains poorly understood. The aim of this project is to determine the molecular mechanisms by which TMEs integrate into specific host cell membranes. For this we will use biochemical approaches to characterise the molecular requirements for the process and screening approaches to identify which host factors are involved. We will focus on TMEs from both Salmonella and Chlamydia to compare their membrane integration mechanisms and how this enables bacterial pathogenesis.

Salmonella and Chlamydia species are intracellular bacteria, which cause infections with distinct pathologies and mechanisms. However, critically, both rely on transmembrane effectors (TMEs) for their intracellular survival and proliferation, resulting in disease. TMEs insert into specific host membranes, which they manipulate with a range of downstream effects, such as the targeted disruption of intracellular trafficking and immune responses. Despite their central role in pathogenesis, little is known about how TMEs target and integrate selectively into specific cellular membranes.

Several different pathways mediate the complex process of membrane integration in eukaryotic cells. By identifying the host proteins required for their integration we will determine whether TMEs hijack canonical eukaryotic integration pathways or use novel integration mechanisms. To achieve this, we will use targeted and unbiased screens coupled with fluorescence microscopy and flow cytometry reporter assays to identify eukaryotic proteins necessary for the membrane integration of diverse Salmonella and Chlamydia TMEs.

In parallel, we will use biochemical approaches to characterise the molecular requirements for the integration of each TME. This will provide information on the pathways of each individual TMEs from the bacterial cytoplasm into eukaryotic membranes. By comparing TMEs from two distinct bacterial pathogens we will determine whether there is any conservation in the process. Through this research we will reveal new understanding into this essential element of host-pathogen interactions, as well as providing fundamental insights into cellular membrane biology.

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 4 years in the first instance.

Applications are welcome from internal candidates who would like to apply for the role on the basis of a secondment from their current role in the University.

Full details of the projects and how to apply are available from the following link: http://www.path.cam.ac.uk/graduate/fully-funded-studentships

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 4 years in the first instance.

The closing date for applications is 2 January 2024.

General queries regarding these positions should be directed to postgrad@path.cam.ac.uk

Please quote reference PK39923 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.

Categories: Latest Jobs

4-year PhD studentship

Wed, 20/12/2023 - 00:00

Crosstalk between B-cells and inflamed epithelia in lymphomagenesis.

Extranodal marginal zone lymphoma of mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (EMZL) invariably arises in a background of chronic inflammatory disorders at various mucosal sites. The neoplastic B-cells typically emerge and clonally expand around lymphoepithelial lesions where they invade the epithelial glands and cause the epithelial cells undergoing active apoptosis and regeneration. Our recent studies identified recurrent somatic mutations in several GPCRs including GPR34 and CCR6, and evidence of their paracrine stimulation by ligands generated by inflamed epithelial cells. The project aims to further characterise the crosstalk between malignant B-cells and inflamed epithelia.

Extranodal marginal zone lymphoma of mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (EMZL) is a broad group of low-grade B-cell lymphomas at various mucosal sites. The neoplastic B-cells typically emerge and clonally expand around lymphoepithelial lesions (LELs) where they invade the epithelial glands and cause the epithelial cells undergoing active apoptosis and regeneration. In a series of recent studies, we have identified recurrent somatic mutations in several GPCRs including GPR34 and CCR6, and evidence of their paracrine stimulation by ligands generated by inflamed epithelial cells. We hypothesize that LELs may act as an "engine" to drive acquisition of somatic genetic changes and evolutionary selection of those which are oncogenic and cooperate with immune receptor signalling. The project aims to further characterise the crosstalk between malignant B-cells and inflamed epithelia through the following work packages:

1) To comprehensively characterise the somatic genomic profile of EMZL by next generation sequencing (NGS), and validate the identified pathogenic changes in a large cohort, particularly those from the salivary glands;

2) To profile the gene and protein expression of lymphoepithelial lesions by RNA-seq and mass spectrometry, identify those highly expressed and potentially involved in the oncogenic crosstalk between epithelial and malignant B-cells;

3) To perform integrated analyses of genomic, mRNA and protein expression data, identify the key players involved in malignant transformation, and investigate their molecular mechanisms and oncogenic cooperation.

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 4 years in the first instance.

Applications are welcome from internal candidates who would like to apply for the role on the basis of a secondment from their current role in the University.

General queries should be directed to postgrad@path.cam.ac.uk

Please quote reference PK39925 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.

Categories: Latest Jobs