Research Assistant (Zilbauer Lab) (Fixed Term)

Key words: Intestinal epithelium, human gut organoids, Inflammatory bowel diseases, epigenetics, single cell sequencing

Applications are invited for the post of a Research Assistant to join the group of Prof Matthias Zilbauer within the Wellcome MRC Cambridge Stem Cell Institute (CSCI) based at the Cambridge Biomedical Campus.

PROJECT: This translational research project aims at investigating the role of epigenetic mechanisms in regulating human intestinal epithelial cell function in health and Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBD). We will be using a wide range of human intestinal organoid culture models which will be subjected to genome wide epigenetic and transcriptomic profiling. Importantly, access to a large patient cohort providing both intestinal tissue and detailed clinical data provides an ideal set-up to perform leading translational research that improves patient care.

ENVIRONMENT: Our group has extensive experience in generation of organoids from mucosal biopsies and have generated a biobank of hundreds of organoid lines. Situated at CSCI in the heart of the Cambridge Biomedical Research Campus, we have access to state-of-the-art research facilities. The University of Cambridge and affiliated research institutions provide a world class research environment and unique opportunities for personal/career development (www.cam.ac.uk) . In addition, we benefit from strong established collaborations particularly to the Wellcome Sanger Institute (www.sanger.ac.uk) and the Milner Therapeutics Institute (www.milner.cam.ac.uk).

TEAM WORK: The post-holder will join a diverse, supportive and friendly team of scientists, clinicians and other professionals. We place a major emphasis on the importance of teamwork and enjoyable work environment as a foundation and prerequisite for performing internationally leading translational research.

CANDIDATE: We are seeking a motivated and enthusiastic individual who will contribute their existing expertise whilst seeking to develop new skills. The ideal candidate will have experience in tissue culture and basic molecular biology techniques. The general duties/responsibilities of this post include generation and culturing of intestinal organoids, production of conditioned media, tissue processing, DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, real-time PCR, and maintenance of sample databases. Contribution to laboratory administration such as ordering of reagents and maintenance of equipment will also be expected. Good organisational and interpersonal skills are essential and the candidates must be familiar with the principles of good laboratory practice. Careful observation and accurate record keeping is essential. The post requires occasional out of hours work and therefore a flexible approach to working hours is required.

Funds are available for a fixed term of 36 months. The successful candidate will be encouraged and fully supported to continue their professional development through the attendance of specific courses and/or conferences as well as a wide range of training opportunities offered by the University of Cambridge.

Applications should include a CV and a brief statement outlining key areas of expertise and reasons why you would like to join the group.

Informal enquiries can be addressed to Prof Matthias Zilbauer (mz304@medschl.cam.ac.uk). Please quote reference PS36183 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

Websites: www.stemcells.cam.ac.uk/people/pi/zilbauer
paediatrics.medschl.cam.ac.uk/about-us/people/senior-academic-staff/dr-matthias-zilbauer

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 36 months 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 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 PS36183 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

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