At a Glance
- Tasks: Investigate protein quality control mechanisms to promote healthy ageing and combat age-related diseases.
- Company: Join the Babraham Institute, a leading charity in life sciences research.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, access to career development courses, and high-quality scientific training.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on health and wellbeing through innovative research.
- Qualifications: PhD in biochemistry or related field with strong research experience.
The predicted salary is between 34500 - 48000 £ per year.
We are seeking an enthusiastic and talented Postdoctoral Research Scientist to join the David group at the Babraham Institute in Cambridge. Our overarching goal is to discover mechanisms that promote healthy ageing and alleviate age-related diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease. Our group has uncovered mechanisms that prevent age-related protein aggregation, a major contributor to functional decline. Notably, we discovered a proteostasis network that safeguards proteins from aggregation in the extracellular space in C. elegans (PMID: 32641833).
Our group is embedded within the Signalling Programme, which offers a vibrant, collaborative environment and access to world-class facilities. In this role, you will have the opportunity to develop an independent research project investigating mechanisms of protein quality control in the extracellular space. Your work will combine in vitro assays to characterize protein aggregation and in vivo studies in C. elegans using imaging, proteomics, and functional assays to explore how extracellular proteostasis influences organismal health.
This position is ideal for a curiosity-driven scientist who thrives on tackling challenging questions and pushing the boundaries of knowledge. Applicants should hold a PhD in biochemistry, cellular or molecular biology, or a related discipline, and demonstrate a strong track record in academic research. Prior experience in molecular cloning and biochemical techniques, including protein purification and western blotting, is essential. Additional expertise in microscopy, cell culture and proteomics is highly desirable, and familiarity with C. elegans research would be advantageous, although not required.
The Babraham Institute is a charity, world renowned for its research in life sciences to enhance lives and improve wellbeing. Postdocs have access to excellent career development courses in the Postdoc Academy (University of Cambridge) and high-quality scientific training is offered by the different core facilities at the Babraham Institute. Funding for this position is initially available for three years.
A full job specification and role requirements can be found attached to this vacancy on our website. The closing date is Monday, 5th January 2026. Applicants must hold a PhD or have their thesis submitted when commencing the post. Please note that you will be appointed on the starting salary of £34,500 per annum, if you have not yet been awarded your PhD.
The Babraham Institute holds a silver Athena SWAN award and is committed to promoting and developing a culture of excellence, diversity and mutual respect that supports the Institute’s ambitions and attracts highly motivated and talented people. The Babraham Institute is a Disability Confident Employer and has a positive approach to employing disabled people.
Postdoctoral Research Scientist (Signalling) in Cambridge employer: The Babraham Institute
The Babraham Institute is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that fosters innovation and collaboration in the heart of Cambridge. Employees benefit from hands-on training opportunities, access to cutting-edge research facilities, and a commitment to professional development, making it an ideal place for those passionate about advancing their careers in biological sciences.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Postdoctoral Research Scientist (Signalling) in Cambridge
✨Get Involved in Local Research Communities
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We think you need these skills to ace Postdoctoral Research Scientist (Signalling) in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Lab Skills:In the biotechnology field, it's super important to highlight your lab experience in your CV. Be sure to mention specific techniques or instruments you've mastered (think PCR, gel electrophoresis, etc.) and any relevant projects you've worked on. This will show The Babraham Institute that you have the hands-on skills they need.
Tailor Your Technical Skills:Make sure to emphasise your technical skills, especially those relevant to the biotechnology sector. Include any software tools or programming languages you've used, like R or Python for data analysis, which could be key for this role at The Babraham Institute.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Since this is a full-time role, your cover letter should reflect not only your passion for biotechnology but also your long-term career ambitions. Share why you're excited about the work that The Babraham Institute does and how you envision contributing to their goals. This shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but you're genuinely invested in this opportunity.
Include Your Papers and Projects:If you've published any papers or contributed to significant projects, mention them! These documents can boost your application and provide tangible evidence of your expertise in the biotechnology field. Don’t forget to link to any relevant publications or project summaries—this can set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Babraham Institute
✨Brush Up on Lab Techniques
Since you're eyeing a full-time gig in biotechnology, make sure you're well-versed in the lab techniques relevant to the role. Be ready to talk about PCR, CRISPR, or any specific methods mentioned in the job description at The Babraham Institute. You might even be asked to demonstrate your understanding of these processes.
✨Know Your Bioinformatics Tools
Get comfortable with bioinformatics tools that are commonly used in the industry, like BLAST or Bioconductor. These are key in biotechnology, and having hands-on experience or at least familiarity can set you apart. Prepare to discuss any relevant projects you've worked on, especially if they involved data analysis or genomic research.
✨Show Your Teamwork Skills
Biotech often involves collaboration across multiple disciplines. Be ready to share stories that highlight your teamwork and communication skills, especially in research projects. Think about working with different teams at university or any internships – this is where you can show how well you fit into The Babraham Institute's culture.
✨Research Recent Biotech Innovations
Stay updated on the latest trends and breakthroughs in biotechnology. Knowing what's happening in the field can help you engage in more meaningful discussions during your interview. Bring up recent articles or advancements that excite you, especially those related to the work being done at The Babraham Institute. This shows your passion for the industry!
