At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a dynamic team to research inflammation's role in colorectal cancer therapy resistance.
- Company: Be part of the Barts Cancer Institute, a leader in innovative cancer research.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, 30 days leave, flexible working, and professional development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in cancer research while collaborating with top experts in the field.
- Qualifications: PhD in biological or computational sciences with experience in genomics data required.
- Other info: Open to flexible working arrangements and committed to diversity and inclusion.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 48000 £ per year.
About the Role
We are seeking a postdoctoral research assistant to join the group of Dr Mirjana Efremova in the Centre for Cancer Evolution, to work on a CRUK funded project to investigate the role of inflammation on therapy resistance in colorectal cancer. Our lab is focused on understanding the cellular and molecular mechanisms promoting metastasis and therapy resistance in colorectal cancer. We use single-cell multiomics and spatial transcriptomics data from patient samples and patient-derived organoids (Ogden et al., Cell Genomics 2025, Efremova et al. Nature; Efremova et al., Cell Reports) and develop computational methods (Efremova et al. Nature Protocols, 2020; Jain et al., Genome Biology).
About You
PhD in a biological or computational subject and background in working with genomics data.
About the School/Department/Institute/Project
The Barts Cancer Institute (BCI) is a Cancer Research UK Centre of Excellence whose work aims to transform the lives of those with and at risk of cancer through innovative research in the laboratory, in patients and in populations. BCI is internationally renowned in many areas of cancer research and it combines ground-breaking basic research with the expertise of clinicians and clinician scientists from the Centre for Experimental Cancer Medicine and the Barts NHS Trust to achieve improvements in cancer patient care. BCI is also a partner in the CRUK City of London Major Centre (together with UCL, Kings and the Francis Crick Institute) which is a Centre of Excellence in Biotherapeutics. BCI is committed in supporting and developing future cancer researchers through its extensive postgraduate training.
About Queen Mary
At Queen Mary University of London, we believe that a diversity of ideas helps us achieve the previously unthinkable.
Throughout our history, we\’ve fostered social justice and improved lives through academic excellence. And we continue to live and breathe this spirit today, not because it\’s simply \’the right thing to do\’ but for what it helps us achieve and the intellectual brilliance it delivers.
We continue to embrace diversity of thought and opinion in everything we do, in the belief that when views collide, disciplines interact, and perspectives intersect, truly original thought takes form.
Benefits
We offer competitive salaries, access to a generous pension scheme, 30 days\’ leave per annum (pro-rata for part-time/fixed-term), a season ticket loan scheme and access to a comprehensive range of personal and professional development opportunities. In addition, we offer a range of work life balance and family friendly, inclusive employment policies, flexible working arrangements, and campus facilities.
Queen Mary\’s commitment to our diverse and inclusive community is embedded in our appointments processes. Reasonable adjustments will be made at each stage of the recruitment process for any candidate with a disability. We are open to considering applications from candidates wishing to work flexibly.
Closing Date
29/07/2025, 23:55
Postdoctoral Research Associate employer: Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University London
Contact Detail:
Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University London Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Postdoctoral Research Associate
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest research in colorectal cancer, particularly studies related to inflammation and therapy resistance. This will not only help you understand the context of the role but also allow you to engage in meaningful discussions during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former members of Dr Mirjana Efremova's lab or the Barts Cancer Institute. Reach out on platforms like LinkedIn to gain insights about the lab culture and ongoing projects, which can give you an edge in your application.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with single-cell multiomics and spatial transcriptomics data. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've applied these techniques in your previous work, as this will demonstrate your suitability for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on the latest computational methods used in cancer research. Being knowledgeable about recent advancements will show your commitment to the field and your ability to contribute to the lab's innovative projects.
We think you need these skills to ace Postdoctoral Research Associate
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your PhD in a biological or computational subject, and emphasises any experience you have with genomics data. Use specific examples from your research that align with the role's focus on therapy resistance in colorectal cancer.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the project and the Centre for Cancer Evolution. Discuss how your background and skills make you a perfect fit for the role, particularly in relation to single-cell multiomics and spatial transcriptomics.
Highlight Relevant Publications: If you have any publications or research experience related to cancer research or computational methods, be sure to mention them. This will demonstrate your expertise and commitment to the field.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application materials. Check for any spelling or grammatical errors, and ensure that all information is clear and concise. A polished application reflects your attention to detail.
How to prepare for a job interview at Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University London
✨Know Your Research
Familiarise yourself with Dr Mirjana Efremova's work and the specific project on inflammation and therapy resistance in colorectal cancer. Being able to discuss her publications and how your background aligns with the research will show your genuine interest and preparedness.
✨Highlight Relevant Experience
Make sure to emphasise your PhD work and any experience you have with genomics data, single-cell multiomics, or spatial transcriptomics. Be ready to provide examples of how you've applied computational methods in your previous research.
✨Demonstrate Collaborative Spirit
The role involves working within a team at the Barts Cancer Institute. Share examples of past collaborations and how you contributed to team success. Highlight your ability to communicate effectively with both researchers and clinicians.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the lab's current projects, future directions, and the culture at the BCI. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the environment is the right fit for you.