Research Assistant (Fixed Term)

Research Assistant (Fixed Term)

The Medical Research Council Mitochondrial Biology Unit (MRC MBU), University of Cambridge wishes to appoint a Research Assistant to join Dr Alex Whitworth and the Mitochondrial Neurodegeneration Group.

A world-renowned centre for research, the MRC MBU is a vibrant community focused on the involvement of mitochondria and their dysfunction in an ever-increasing range of human diseases.

The Mitochondrial Neurodegeneration group pursues an integrated programme of investigations which elucidate critical homeostatic mechanisms that regulate the integrity of mitochondria and maintain the normal neuronal functioning. In particular, the group uses Drosophila and cellular models to elucidate the molecular mechanisms of pathogenesis of various neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's Disease and Motor Neurone Disease.

We are seeking to recruit an enthusiastic, motivated and well-organised person, who will provide broad-ranging assistance to the lab, including general lab management and maintenance, as well as providing technical and scientific support for a range of projects.

The post-holder will perform routine procedures such as molecular cloning and maintenance of an essential collection of Drosophila (fruit fly) stocks. The post-holder will also contribute to a range of molecular, cellular and organismal assays to support various lab projects. Attention to detail and meticulous recordkeeping are key elements for this position.

The applicant must be a graduate (BSc/MSc/MPhil) in a biomedical scientific subject and have experience working within a molecular biology laboratory. Experience in mitochondrial research and/or handling and manipulating Drosophila would be desirable.

This is a fixed-term position with funding currently due to end on 31 March 2027.

Closing date: 7th May 2025

Interviews: to be confirmed

Applicants should include a CV and cover letter detailing why they are suitable for the position and their experience, along with contact information for three professional referees who can be contacted prior to interview.

The University of Cambridge is committed, in its pursuit of academic and research excellence, to a pro-active and inclusive approach to equality, which supports and encourages all under-represented groups, promotes an inclusive culture, and values diversity. The MBU is part of the School of Clinical Medicine, which holds an Athena Swan Silver Award and supports an Academic Women's Forum. The University particularly encourages women and candidates from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic backgrounds to apply.

Further information

• Department/Location: MRC Mitochondrial Biology Unit


• Salary: £32,546-£35,116


• Reference: SM45631


• Category: Research


• Published: 4 April 2025


• Closing date: 7 May 2025

#s1-Gen

We are seeking to recruit an enthusiastic, motivated and well-organised person, who will provide broad-ranging assistance to the lab, including general lab management and maintenance, as well as providing technical and scientific support for a range of projects.

The post-holder will perform routine procedures such as molecular cloning and maintenance of an essential collection of Drosophila (fruit fly) stocks. The post-holder will also contribute to a range of molecular, cellular and organismal assays to support various lab projects. Attention to detail and meticulous recordkeeping are key elements for this position.

The applicant must be a graduate (BSc/MSc/MPhil) in a biomedical scientific subject and have experience working within a molecular biology laboratory. Experience in mitochondrial research and/or handling and manipulating Drosophila would be desirable.

A world-renowned centre for research, the MRC MBU is a vibrant community focused on the involvement of mitochondria and their dysfunction in an ever-increasing range of human diseases. Additional information can be found at http://www.mrc-mbu.cam.ac.uk/.

The Mitochondrial Neurodegeneration group pursues an integrated programme of investigations which elucidate critical homeostatic mechanisms that regulate the integrity of mitochondria and maintain the normal neuronal functioning. In particular, the group uses Drosophila and cellular models to elucidate the molecular mechanisms of pathogenesis of various neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's Disease and Motor Neurone Disease.