Research Associate (Fixed Term)

Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Associate position in the transmission of malaria parasites to start immediately through to 30th November 2025 in the first instance.

The successful candidate will join the laboratory of Dr Andrew Blagborough to investigate the fundamental cell biology of Plasmodium transmission and the generation of novel anti-malarial transmission blocking vaccines. The post will be within the Division of Microbiology & Parasitology, Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge.

The candidate should have completed a PhD level degree in cell biology, biochemistry or closely related field. In addition, the candidate should have demonstrable previous research lab experience with particular focus on the following elements:

Molecular biology and biochemistry: Experience with DNA cloning, western blot, immuno-precipitation, recombinant protein production in bacterial and mammalian systems (including experience with chromatography), and mass spectrometry.

Parasitology: Experience with culturing and maintenance of Plasmodium berghei parasite lines and generation and purification of sexual/transmission stages. Experience in transmission blocking assays. Familiarity with insectary work and ability to contribute to the maintenance of an Anopheles stephensi colony.

An active UK animal license and experience with the maintenance and generation of P. falciparum gametocyte stages would also be advantageous.

The candidate should also have good interpersonal and organizational skills, the ability to work with limited supervision and exercise initiative, the ability to prioritize his/her own work in response to deadlines, and experience in making effective presentations.

Once an offer of employment has been accepted, the successful candidate will be required to undergo a health assessment.

Applications are welcome from internal candidates who would like to apply for the role on the basis of a secondment from their current role in the University.

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Any queries regarding this position should be directed to [email protected] or 01223 333940.

Please quote reference PK40382 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.

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.

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