Career Returners Fellowship in Cambridge

The MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology (LMB) is a leading institute for biological research and the four research divisions – Cell Biology, Neurobiology, Protein and Nucleic Acid Chemistry (PNAC), and Structural Studies – work together as a close-knit community.

This is a training position to provide a pathway back to science for those who have, for whatever reason, stepped away from science, perhaps due to caring responsibilities for children or family members, long‑term sickness, etc. The LMB is committed to broadening the diversity of scientists within its community and this Fellowship will provide opportunities for talented scientists to return to the lab and continue on their scientific career trajectory. This position is open to those who have been away from science for a minimum of 12 months.

Working with our world‑class scientists, you will be based in an institute renowned for its excellent scientific facilities and high‑quality research. This is a three‑year training and development position suitable for you if you have recently completed your doctoral studies, or you are looking to move into a new research discipline and/or need to further develop your research skills.

The successful candidate will be assigned to a specific group, and applicants are encouraged to speak to LMB Group Leaders with whom they are interested to work with in advance of applying to help ensure a strong scientific alignment with the LMB’s scientific programme. In discussion with the Group Leader, you will make significant input into determining the direction of the project within a three‑year lifespan.

There will be opportunities to present scientific work at seminars within the laboratory and at external meetings, and to contribute to the overall preparation of research for publication, including drafting scientific papers. There is some flexibility in working hours to accommodate personal circumstances. Let us know if you have any requirements.

You will be eligible to join our defined benefit pension scheme, a holiday entitlement of 40.5 days (including bank holidays and privilege days) and a generous employee discount scheme. We are also committed to providing support for Fellows to move their career forward, including a generous training budget, and mentoring from other LMB scientists.

We are a world‑class research institute within UK Research and Innovation (UKRI). It is anticipated that interviews will take place in July 2026, with successful Fellows joining the LMB between early October and end of December 2026 if possible, but there is flexibility with this.

Closing date: Sunday 17 May 2026. Final appointments will be subject to a pre‑employment screening. We actively support equality, diversity and inclusion in all our activities, processes and culture. We encourage applications from all sections of society. The LMB particularly welcomes women, minority ethnic and disabled candidates to apply for this vacancy as they are currently under‑represented. We are a disability inclusive employer and encourage disabled people to apply for this role. You are very welcome to contact us for information about the application process and any adjustments you may require.