Research Assistant (Fixed Term)

The Research Luke Harland is establishing a new research group based in the Loke Centre for Trophoblast Research within the Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience at the University of Cambridge. The group investigates how specialised blood and vascular cell types arise during mammalian development and uses this knowledge to generate defined cell populations from pluripotent stem cells for mechanistic studies and tissue modelling.

We aim to understand how developmental history shapes blood and vascular cell identity and function, and to apply this knowledge to build improved vascularised tissue models. By recreating the developmental processes that generate specialised blood vessels, we hope to build more physiologically relevant models for studying human development and disease. Our initial focus is on reconstructing the fetal placental exchange interface, which enables the transfer of oxygen and nutrients required for fetal growth and development.

Our research combines embryology, stem cell biology, single-cell genomics, genome engineering, advanced imaging and computational biology. Further information about Luke Harland and key publications relevant to the ongoing research programme can be found on the Loke Centre for Trophoblast Research website (https://www.trophoblast.cam.ac.uk/people/luke-harland) The Opportunity We are seeking an enthusiastic and motivated Research Assistant to join our growing Wellcome-funded research programme.

This is an exciting opportunity to become one of the founding members of a new research group and contribute to its development and culture. The successful candidate will contribute to research spanning developmental and stem cell biology, with opportunities to work with pluripotent stem cell culture and directed differentiation, molecular biology, flow cytometry, microscopy, mouse developmental models and single-cell genomics. About You Applicants should hold a BSc or Master's degree in a relevant biological discipline and have practical laboratory experience in cell biology, developmental biology, stem cell biology, molecular biology or a related field.

We are particularly interested in candidates with experience in the culture and directed differentiation of mouse and/or human pluripotent stem cells. Experience with R or Python is desirable, and previous analysis of single-cell RNA-sequencing data would be an advantage. Experience with flow cytometry, microscopy or mouse developmental biology would also be beneficial. Training will be provided, and experience across all of these areas is not expected.

We are looking for an organised, enthusiastic and collaborative individual with excellent attention to detail and an interest in combining experimental and computational biology. For more information please see the further particulars. Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 2 years in the first instance. Due to the nature of the work, you will be required to work on site. Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.

Applications should include a current CV, a cover letter outlining your interest in the position and relevant experience, and contact details for two professional referees. Informal enquiries can be made to Dr Luke Harland (ltgh2@cam.ac.uk). Please quote reference PM51164 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.

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