Research Associate (Ringshausen Lab) (Fixed Term)

Applications are invited for the position of a Research Associate to join the group of Dr Ingo Ringshausen within The Wellcome Trust - Medical Research Council Cambridge Stem Cell Institute and Department of Haematology on the Cambridge Biomedical Campus.

The successful candidate will join a pioneering research project investigating mechanisms of tumour-microenvironment (TME) remodelling in B cell lymphoma and its contribution to therapy-resistance. This Blood Cancer UK-funded project is based on previous findings from the group (Park et al. Science Translational Medicine 2020, cover story) and will further define how aberrant signalling in stroma cells drives TME-mediated resistance to apoptosis. In particular, through this project, we will define which subsets of stroma cells contribute to therapy-resistance with a special focus on the bone marrow vasculature. For this, our group employs in vitro 2D- and 3D- models as well as xenograft and genetically engineered mouse models to study tumour cell - microenvironment interactions. Experiments will include single cell RNA sequencing to identify transcriptional networks in stroma cells which are corrupted by tumour B cells in combination with proteomics. Ultimately, we aim to define novel therapeutically exploitable targets expressed in stroma cells of the TME and to translate these findings into patient care.

Appointment at Research Associate level is dependent on having a PhD, or an equivalent research doctorate in a relevant subject. Recent PhD students are encouraged to apply for this position. Those who have submitted but not yet received their PhD will be appointed at Research Assistant level, which will be amended to Research Associate once PhD has been awarded. 

The post holder will demonstrate creativity in the design and planning of experiments. They must be able to lead and troubleshoot a complex project, and to engage effectively with team members and other project collaborators. The ability to learn quickly and to work both independently and as part of a team is essential. The post-holder will become a valued member of the Ringshausen Group and will be able to supervise students and junior researchers. Excellent organizational and proven problem-solving skills are essential. They will communicate their work effectively in writing and oral presentations at internal meetings and international conferences. Prior experience of B cell or lymphoma biology, cell culture, CRISPR editing, next generation sequencing and mouse experimentation is desirable; however, we will consider all the skills and strengths that you have.

Prospective candidates are encouraged to contact Dr Ringshausen ([email protected] ) directly when considering an application to discuss the project in greater detail.

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available until 30 September 2025 in the first instance.

To apply online for this vacancy and to view further information about the role, please visit: http://www.jobs.cam.ac.uk/job/36362 .

Please ensure that you upload a covering letter and CV in the Upload section of the online application. The covering letter should outline how you match the criteria for the post and why you are applying for this role. If you upload any additional documents which have not been requested, we will not be able to consider these as part of your application.

Please include details of your referees, including email address and phone number, one of which must be your most recent line manager.

Closing date: 16th September 2022

Interview date: To be confirmed