Research Assistant (Brenton Group) (Fixed Term)
The Brenton research group is based at the Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, University of Cambridge. The Institute is core-funded by Cancer Research UK and provides state-of-the-art research facilities for over 20 research groups to undertake world-class research into all aspects of cancer biology.
Our research focuses on identifying biomarkers for therapy and clinical trials using genomic and functional studies using primary human tissues and animal models. We apply next-generation sequencing (NGS), long-read technologies (such as Oxford Nanopore), single-cell whole genome sequencing (WGS) techniques and develop advanced cancer models including organoids and patient-derived xenografts from primary human tissue. Current projects include investigating extrachromosomal DNA (ecDNA), copy number and structural variation, and resistance mechanisms through large-scale genomic profiling. Recent work has identified therapeutically relevant copy number signatures associated with particular mutational processes in patient samples. We are a multidisciplinary team of molecular and functional lab scientists, computational biologists, and clinical fellows. The successful applicant will be integrated within a diverse professional network of scientific backgrounds and expertise.
We are looking for a Research Assistant to join our team to support ongoing genomics projects, primarily involving next-generation sequencing of patient tissues, body fluids and established ovarian cancer models using technologies such as Oxford Nanopore long-read and single cell shallow whole genome sequencing. The role holder will also play a major role in supporting the daily functioning of the lab involving day-to-day sample management, processing and coordinating primary human tissues, liaising with collaborators and assisting with general laboratory management tasks.
You will have the opportunity to work under your own initiative and apply your excellent problem-solving skills to troubleshoot challenging technical issues. You will contribute towards running of various projects within the laboratory as well as your own project and will present your work regularly at lab meetings. You will assist in all aspects of the projects including: mammalian cell culture, sample receipt and processing, designing pilot experiments, DNA/RNA extraction, quality control, LIMS curation, library preparation and some data analysis.
Applicants will have:
- a BSc/MSc degree in biological sciences and a good understanding of molecular and genomic biology principles and techniques.
- Experience with methods such as DNA/RNA extraction, library preparation, data analysis and basic cell culture is highly desirable.
- Good communication skills, attention to detail, and a methodical approach to lab work are essential for this role, especially when handling patient samples or contributing to shared projects.
The successful applicant will be able to provide examples of being both a good team player and the ability to work independently. You should be conscientious and ambitious, with the ability to work well both independently and part of a team.
This post would be ideal for a highly motivated and proactive individual looking to develop their skills in translational genomics, whether as a next step toward a PhD or to gain more experience working in an academic research environment.
Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 3 years in the first instance.
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.
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For more information about our research please see: https://www.cruk.cam.ac.uk/research-groups/brenton-group/
Please quote reference SW46323 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.
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