At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team to research T-cell responses in Glioblastoma and support innovative cancer therapies.
- Company: Cardiff University is a leading institution known for impactful medical research and a vibrant work culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy 45 days of annual leave, a local pension scheme, and flexible working options.
- Other info: This full-time role offers a competitive salary and opportunities for personal and professional development.
- Why this job: Be part of groundbreaking research that aims to improve cancer treatment and make a real difference.
- Qualifications: A degree in a relevant field or equivalent experience is essential; T-cell knowledge is a plus.
The predicted salary is between 28400 - 30400 £ per year.
Research Assistant
Division of Infection and Immunity
School of Medicine
College of Biomedical and Life Sciences
A Research Assistant position joint funded by Cancer Research Wales and the Wales Cancer Research Centre is available in the research group of Dr Mathew Clement, in the Division of Infection and Immunity at Cardiff University School of Medicine, based at Heath Park Cardiff.
This role will involve identifying novel antigen-specific T-cells during Glioblastoma (GBM) development. Our long-term aim is to improve T-cell responses during GBM by uncovering novel targets and to test these in vivo using established models in combination therapy approaches including the use of immune checkpoint inhibition and other antibody targets.
The lab is well funded by the Academy of Medical Sciences, The Brain Tumour Charity, Cancer Research Wales and the Wales Cancer Research Centre and regularly publishes high impact research.
We are seeking a new addition to the team who can support the research team in a technical capacity by carrying out defined experimental procedures. The work covers a wide variety of research areas, including molecular biology, biochemistry, cell biology, and immunology (T-cell experience). The successful candidate will have a degree in a relevant discipline, or equivalent experience in one or more of these areas. They must show a willingness to develop skills and to support a team of postgraduate students, undergraduate students, and research staff. Excellent communication skills, time management and self-motivation will be essential for this role.
For enquiries about this position please contact Dr Mathew Clement via email: ClementM@cardiff.ac.uk.
This is a full time (35 hours per week) fixed term post until 31st July 2027 and is available immediately.
Salary: £33,482 - £36,130 per annum (Grade 5). Appointments to roles at Cardiff University are usually made at bottom of scale unless in exceptional circumstances.
Cardiff University offers many excellent benefits, including 45 days annual leave (incl bank holidays), local pension scheme, a cycle to work scheme and other travel initiatives, annual increments within the pay scale, and more. It is an exciting and vibrant place to work, with many different challenges and is a proud Living Wage supporter.
Date advert posted: Thursday, 5 June 2025
Closing date: Sunday, 22 June 2025
Cardiff University is committed to supporting and promoting equality and diversity and to creating an inclusive working environment. We believe this can be achieved through attracting, developing, and retaining a diverse range of staff from many different backgrounds. We therefore welcome applicants from all sections of the community regardless of sex, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, trans identity, relationship status, religion or belief, caring responsibilities, or age. In supporting our employees to achieve a balance between their work and their personal lives, we will also consider proposals for flexible working or job share arrangements.
Cardiff University is a signatory to the San Francisco Declaration on Research Assessment (DORA), which means that in hiring and promotion decisions we will evaluate applicants on the quality of their research, not publication metrics or the identity of the journal in which the research is published. More information is available at: Responsible research assessment - Research - Cardiff University
Applications may be submitted in Welsh, and an application submitted in Welsh will not be treated less favourably than an application submitted in English.
Job Description
Main function
To conduct research within the Clement neuroimmunology laboratory working on Glioblastoma and immune modulation, carrying out supporting work that helps lead to the publishing of research in high-quality journals. To pursue excellence in research and to inspire others to do the same.
Main Duties and Responsibilities
- To undertake research within the Clement laboratory analysing T cell function during human Glioblastoma development that includes planning, preparing, setting up, conducting and recording the outcome of the experiments
- Actively participate within the research group, communicating and presenting research at meetings, through publications and other recognised avenues as appropriate, ensuring information is communicated to internal and external partners
- To contribute and support research publications and presentations as required
- To contribute and support research funding bids as required
- To analyse and communicate complex ideas, concepts and data using appropriate methods and packages
- To resolve issues and support colleagues in devising procedures required to ensure accurate and timely reporting
- To generate research output and contribute to the development of independent and original ideas as appropriate
- To provide support in research activities for undergraduate courses and research programmes and provide guidance to other members of staff within the research team
- To participate in School administration and activities to promote the School and its work to the wider University and the outside world
- To undergo personal and professional development that is appropriate to and which will enhance performance.
- To ensure that an understanding of the importance of confidentiality is applied when undertaking all duties
- To abide by the University policies on Health and Safety and Equality and Diversity
- Any other duties not included above, but consistent with the role.
Essential Criteria
Qualifications and Education
- A degree in a relevant discipline, or equivalent experience
- Knowledge of research methods and techniques including molecular biology and cellular immunology within cancer immunology
- Proven ability to analyse complex information and summarise appropriately
- Ability to demonstrate the capability and drive to succeed in securing research funding
- Proven communication skills, including presentation to various audiences
- Excellent organisational and team-working skills
- Proven ability to demonstrate creativity, innovation and teamworking within work
- Postgraduate degree at PhD level (or nearing completion / submission) in a related subject area or relevant industrial experience
- Proven ability to work without close supervision
- Proven ability to adapt to the changing requirements of the Higher Education community.
- Previous knowledge/experience of working within cellular immunology (T cells) in vitro, analysing immune function including ELISA and flow cytometry
IMPORTANT: Evidencing Criteria
It is the School of Medicine\'s policy to use the person specification as a key tool for short-listing. Candidates should evidence that they meet ALL of the essential criteria as well as, where relevant, the desirable. As part of the application process you will be asked to provide this evidence via a supporting statement.
Please ensure when submitting this document / attaching it to your application profile you name it with the vacancy reference number, in this instance for this post, 20159BR
If candidates do not provide written evidence of meeting all of the essential criteria then their application will not be progressed. The School of Medicine welcome the submission of CVs to accompany evidence of the job-based criteria.
Salary Range Min.
33,482
Salary Range Max.
36,130
Job Category
Academic - Research, Medical & Dental
Grade
Grade 5 #J-18808-Ljbffr
Research Assistant in Cardiff employer: Cardiff University / Prifysgol Caerdydd
Cardiff University is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and inclusive work culture that fosters professional growth and development. With generous benefits such as 45 days of annual leave, a local pension scheme, and opportunities for flexible working, employees are supported in achieving a healthy work-life balance while contributing to impactful research in the field of medicine. The university's commitment to equality and diversity ensures a welcoming environment for all staff, making it an ideal place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment.
Contact Details:
Cardiff University / Prifysgol Caerdydd Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Assistant in Cardiff
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest research in glioblastoma and T-cell immunology. This will not only help you understand the context of the role but also allow you to engage in meaningful conversations during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Reach out to current or former members of Dr Mathew Clement's lab via professional networking sites like LinkedIn. They can provide insights into the lab culture and expectations, which can be invaluable for your application.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your technical skills in molecular biology and immunology during the interview. Be ready to provide examples of past projects or experiences that demonstrate your ability to conduct experiments and analyse data.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your communication and teamwork skills by preparing anecdotes that highlight your experience working in collaborative environments. This is crucial as the role involves supporting postgraduate and undergraduate students.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Assistant in Cardiff
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role:Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the responsibilities and requirements of the Research Assistant position. Make sure you understand the specific research areas mentioned, such as molecular biology and immunology.
Tailor Your Supporting Statement:When writing your supporting statement, explicitly address how you meet each of the essential criteria listed in the person specification. Use specific examples from your education or experience that demonstrate your skills and knowledge relevant to the role.
Highlight Relevant Experience:Emphasise any previous experience you have in research, particularly in cancer immunology or related fields. Mention any techniques you are familiar with, such as ELISA or flow cytometry, as these are directly relevant to the position.
Proofread Your Application:Before submitting your application, carefully proofread all documents for spelling and grammatical errors. A well-presented application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which is crucial in a research environment.
How to prepare for a job interview at Cardiff University / Prifysgol Caerdydd
✨Know Your Research
Familiarise yourself with the latest research in glioblastoma and T-cell immunology. Be prepared to discuss recent publications from Dr Mathew Clement's lab and how they relate to your own experience.
✨Demonstrate Technical Skills
Highlight your hands-on experience with techniques relevant to the role, such as ELISA and flow cytometry. Be ready to explain how you've applied these skills in previous projects or studies.
✨Show Team Spirit
Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively within a research team. Share examples of how you've supported colleagues or contributed to group projects, showcasing your communication and organisational skills.
✨Prepare Questions
Have thoughtful questions ready for the interviewers about the lab's current projects, future directions, and how you can contribute. This shows your genuine interest in the position and the research being conducted.
