Research Assistant / Fly Technician (piRNA team) (Fixed Term)

Once an offer of employment has been accepted, the successful candidate will be required to undergo a basic disclosure (criminal records check) check and a security check.

We welcome applications from individuals who wish to be considered for part-time working or other flexible working arrangements.

The Hannon laboratory at the CRUK Cambridge Institute (part of the University of Cambridge) is seeking to hire a dedicated Research Assistant/Fly Technician to join a team of scientists studying RNA-mediated chromatin silencing. Research on non-coding RNAs is at heart of our lab, we study the biogenesis and function of a plethora of different classes of short and long ncRNAs in a wide range of organisms. We also continue to apply our knowledge gained from these studies to develop and improve innovative RNA silencing tools for cancer research and other areas of the lab.

Within the Hannon Lab, the piRNA team uses Drosophila as a model organism to study a small RNA silencing system known as the piRNA pathway. This pathway provides an elegant defence mechanism that protects the genetic information of animal germ cells from the deleterious effects of molecular parasites known as transposable elements. Work in the lab aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms that converts transposon and cluster transcripts but not coding mRNAs into mature piRNAs and to study the endogenous functions of this fascinating class of small RNAs.

We are looking to recruit an individual to the piRNA team who can provide Drosophila husbandry (fly collection maintenance, fly stock generation, tissue dissections) as well as molecular biology and biochemistry experimental support. Within the group, we will provide you with further training in these disciplines if required. We encourage applications from a diverse group of backgrounds and allow for part time and flexible working hours.

The ideal candidate would be a reliable and competent individual with expertise in Drosophila husbandry and laboratory skills in molecular biology or biochemistry. Experience with tissue culture or molecular cloning would be beneficial but are not required. The successful candidate will demonstrate responsibility, initiative, independent thinking and possess excellent communication and organisation skills. The ability to work effectively individually and as part of a diverse team are highly desirable.

Applicants should have a B.Sc. or M.Sc. degree (or equivalent practical research experience) in a relevant discipline (Biology, Biochemistry, Natural Sciences).