Research Assistant/Associate in discovery of novel protein regulators of GPCR signalling (Fixed Term)

Applications are invited for a Research Associate position in the University of Cambridge, Department of Pharmacology, central Cambridge, working in the laboratory of Prof Graham Ladds.

About the project: We seek an enthusiastic postdoctoral research associate to join our team studying novel protein modulators of G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) signalling. This project combines artificial intelligence (AI) models with experimental assays to unveil the roles of the newly discovered non-canonical proteome in the cellular physiology of GPCRs. This interdisciplinary project links AI, bioinformatics, genetics, proteomics, structural biology, pharmacology and cell biology. It aims to use AI to identify and prioritize alternative proteins involved in the regulation of GPCR signalling, and to experimentally validate predictions. This project is a collaboration with Dr Brunet, University of Sherbrooke, Canada, and includes the possibility of working in Dr Brunet's laboratory for a period of up to six months.

The Cell Signalling lab: The Cell Signalling Lab uses multidisciplinary approaches to investigate GPCR signalling, and enjoys collaborations with both academia and industry. The focus of the lab is to establish how different cellular components can control GPCR agonist bias. You can find more information about the lab at: https://www.phar.cam.ac.uk/research/Ladds and on Twitter: @GPCR_Ladds.

The successful candidate should have a PhD in Pharmacology, Biochemistry, or a related field. Experience and expertise in any of the following would be advantageous: cell biology assays, molecular biology, genetics, bioinformatics and computational methods. Knowledge of methods used in GPCR research would be an advantage. The appointee will be enthusiastic, methodical, be able to work effectively as part of a team and independently, be able to perform and analyse experiments with appropriate supervision, be willing to engage with the research literature, and be able to write regular research reports.

The expected starting date is 14th February 2024, although there is some flexibility to start slightly later. Funds are available for a fixed term until 13th August 2025, after probationary review. Successful candidates who have not yet been awarded their PhD by the appointment date will be appointed as a Research Assistant, Grade 5 (£29,605 - £33,966). Upon the award of the PhD the individual will be promoted to Research Associate, Grade 7 (£36,024- £44,263)

Interviews will take place in February.

For the online application you will need to provide your personal details, the names and e-mail addresses of two referees familiar with your academic performance, your CV, your availability and a cover letter (including a description of your experience as it relates to the job specifications).

The Department holds an Athena SWAN Bronze Award and is committed to providing equal opportunities and advancing the representation of women in science. We welcome applications from all candidates irrespective of gender. Appointment will be based on merit alone.

Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.

Informal inquiries can be made by contacting Prof Graham Ladds ([email protected] ).

If you have any questions about the application process, please contact the HR team at [email protected] .

Please quote reference PL40042 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.

Apply online