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Biological Sciences● OpenPostdocPreview

Research Assistant/Associate in Malaria Parasite Biology

Investigate the biology of a novel virus in malaria parasites using cutting-edge molecular genetics and transcriptomics.

Best for:Best for molecular biologists and biochemists with expertise in cell culture and Plasmodium genetics seeking a discovery-focused postdoctoral role.

University of Cambridge · Cambridge, United Kingdom · R2 · Recognised researcher
More professors at University of Cambridge
malaria parasite biologymolecular geneticstranscriptomicsparasitologybiochemistry
This is a postdoc position — not a PhD studentship.
Deadline
Nov 15, 2026
26 days
Funding
Salaried
£33.0k–£46.0k/yr
Start date
January 2027
Fixed-term
Location
Cambridge
United Kingdom

Overview

The Department of Pathology at the University of Cambridge is seeking a fixed-term Research Assistant or Research Associate to join Professor Catherine Merrick's laboratory. Funded by a BBSRC Pioneer grant, the project focuses on discovering and analyzing the biology of a newly identified virus within cultured Plasmodium parasites. The successful candidate will employ advanced methods in molecular genetics, cell culture, biochemistry, and transcriptomics to drive discovery research. Responsibilities include executing independent experiments, collaborating with team members, and preparing results for publication and future grant proposals.

Plasmodiumparasite biologymolecular geneticsRNA-seqtranscriptomicsprotein biochemistryBBSRC

What you'll do

  • Design and execute experiments investigating the biology of a novel virus in malaria parasites.
  • Utilize cutting-edge molecular genetics, cell culture, biochemistry, and transcriptomics techniques.
  • Work independently and collaboratively within the Division of Microbiology and Parasitology.
  • Drive research objectives forward to establish proof-of-concept data for follow-up grants.
  • Prepare research findings for presentation in peer-reviewed journals and academic meetings.

Requirements

Degree required: PhD in parasitology, molecular biology, or biochemistry (or close to completion)

Language: English

Instruction: English

Publications: Relevant research experience demonstrated by publications in peer-reviewed journals

Required skills
  • Demonstrated experience in cell culture and molecular genetics
  • Ability to conduct independent research and work collaboratively in a team
  • Strong problem-solving, organizational, and communication skills
  • Track record of relevant research published in peer-reviewed journals
Nice to have
Experience with Plasmodium culture and molecular genetics, particularly P. knowlesi or P. falciparumProficiency in protein biochemistry techniquesExperience with RNA-seq and transcriptomic data analysis
Eligibility
  • Must be eligible to live and work in the UK

Funding & terms

Type
Salaried
Amount
£33.0k–£46.0k/yr
Duration
20 months
Programme
BBSRC Pioneer grant
BBSRC

How to apply

Deadline: 2026-11-15

Submit your application online through the university portal by providing your curriculum vitae, a cover letter, a publications list, and contact details for two referees.

Documents required
  • CV
  • Cover letter
  • Publications list
  • 2 reference letters
↗Apply on site

Contact

Catherine Merrick· Professor

cjm48@cam.ac.uk

CM
Prof.
Catherine Merrick
Department of Pathology
Lab
Division of Microbiology and Parasitology
University of Cambridge
BBSRC Pioneer grantUnited Kingdom
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