Research Assistant in Biosciences
University of Cambridge
Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 18 months in the first instance.
Applications are invited for an exciting opportunity to join the Sormanni Lab at the Chemistry of Health, to assist in multidisciplinary projects related to computational design and laboratory characterization of antibodies and corresponding targets.
The successful candidate will work in a highly multidisciplinary research environment and is expected to independently lead on specific tasks within multiple projects. This is a laboratory-based position, which also offers some exposure to theoretical and computational research.
The main responsibilities include:
- Recombinant expression and purification of antibodies and other proteins, using bacteria, yeast, or mammalian expression systems.
- Design of expression plasmids, gene sequences, oligonucleotides, and perform the corresponding molecular biology (e.g., cloning, mutagenesis, etc.).
- Carry out biophysical experiments to characterize binding, stability, and if needed cross-reactivity and solubility of the produced proteins and antibodies.
- Assist in routine maintenance of laboratory (e.g., procurement, maintenance of equipment, organisation of reagents and DNA/protein stocks).
- Prepare short reports, evaluate results, improve and develop protocols.
- Active engagement in personal and professional development.
This position offers the opportunity to develop laboratory skills that are highly sought-after by both academia and industry. The post holder will be an active member of a group conducing both fundamental and translational research, using technologies ranging from artificial intelligence to in vitro library construction and screening (learn more: https://www.ch.cam.ac.uk/group/sormanni).
The post holder must have:
- At least a BSc degree (or equivalent) in the biosciences, or similar field.
- Experience with recombinant protein expression and purification.
- Strong capability for learning new skills and techniques.
- The ability to work independently and effectively within highly multidisciplinary teams.
- Excellent time management and organisational skills.
- The ability to present results and progress concisely both to specialized and non-specialized audiences.
The post will be available from 3rd of October 2022, or as soon as possible thereafter.
Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.
To apply, please upload your CV and a cover letter detailing your suitability and motivations for taking up this post, including your list of publications and contact details for three professional referees.
For queries relating to your application or the application process, please contact Dr Pietro Sormanni (email: ps589@cam.ac.uk)
Please quote reference MA38188 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.
The Department holds an Athena SWAN silver award for women in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Medicine.
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.