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- Tasks: Assist in groundbreaking cancer research through experiments and data analysis.
- Company: Join The Open University, a leader in inclusive education and innovative research.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working hours and a supportive environment for personal growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in cancer therapy while developing your skills in a collaborative setting.
- Qualifications: MSc or pursuing an MSc in relevant fields; experience in molecular biology and cancer cell culture required.
- Other info: Applications are encouraged early as the position may close before the deadline.
The predicted salary is between 18000 - 24000 £ per year.
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Department: School of Life, Health & Chemical Sciences
Closing Date: 7 September 2025
Weekly Working Hours: 18.5
Contract Type: Fixed Term Contract
Fixed Term Contract: End Date: 6 months from start date
Welsh Language: Not Applicable
Job Description:
About the Role
This Research Assistant role contributes support to research in the area of epigenetic liquid biopsy discovery, in the School of Life Health and Chemical Sciences.
The Research Assistant will contribute to work aimed at developing a new technology for precision cancer therapy.
Flexible working:
We are open to discussions about flexible working. Whether it’s compressed hours or another working arrangement. Please reach out to us to discuss what works best for you. Please note that this role is based on site at our Milton Keynes campus.
Salary:
The salary quoted above is based on a 37 hour week (full-time hours). This post is 18.5 hours so will be paid at half the full-time rate above.
Key Responsibilities
- Perform experiments with cancer cell culture, which include pharmacological treatments, western blots and chromatin immunoprecipitation.
- Make sure all the reagents needed for experiments are available, and complete relevant orders when needed.
- Write research reports and contribute to publications as appropriate.
- Analyse and interpret the results of own research and generate original ideas based on outcomes (as appropriate for the role).
- Possess sufficient breadth or depth of specialist knowledge in the discipline and of research methods and techniques to work within own area.
- Adhere to safe working practices and applicable Health and Safety legislation.
- Continue to update knowledge and develop skills.
- Make internal and external contacts to develop knowledge and understanding and form relationships for future collaboration.
- Contribute to the research environment of the School of Life, Health and Chemical Sciences.
- Commitment to principles of Equality and Diversity and Research Integrity.
Skills and Experience
Essential Requirements
- MSc or working towards an MSc in Pharmacology, Cancer biology or related field (or higher degree).
- Evidence of experience with basic molecular biology techniques (e.g. use of DNA/RNA extraction kits, reverse transcription).
- Evidence of experience with cancer cell culture.
- Evidence of experience in chromatin immunoprecipitation.
- Ability to work in teams.
- Good communication skills.
- Good theoretical knowledge of cancer biology.
- Good theoretical knowledge of epigenetics.
- Good theoretical knowledge of liquid biopsies.
- Good data interpretation skills.
Desirable:
- Evidence of experience with statistical analysis tools for lab research.
- Evidence of experience in pharmacological treatments and/or western blots.
- Evidence of experience with flow cytometry.
- Good knowledge of bioinformatics.
To apply for this role please submit the following as one document;
- CV
- A personal statement of up to 1000 words. You should set out in your statement why you are interested in the role and provide examples of where your skills and experience meet the required competenciesfor this role as detailed in the job description.
Please Note: We may close this job advert earlier than the published closing date where a satisfactory number of applications are received. We would therefore encourage early applications.
If you have any queries or questions about the recruitment process, or regarding your application,please contact:Careers@open.ac.uk .
Looking for Associate Lecturer (AL) roles?
Please use our AL home page to find AL vacancies.
The Open University is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion which is reflected in our mission to be open to people, places, methods and ideas. We aim to foster a diverse and inclusive environment so that all in our OU community can reach their potential. We recognise that different people bring different perspectives, ideas, knowledge, and culture, and that this difference brings great strength.We strive to recruit, retain and develop the careers of a diverse pool of students and staff, and particularly encourage applications from all underrepresented groups. We also aspire to make The Open University a supportive workplace for all through our policies, services and staff networks.
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Research Assistant employer: The Open University UK
Contact Detail:
The Open University UK Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Assistant
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest research in epigenetics and liquid biopsies. 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
Network with professionals in the field of cancer biology and pharmacology. Attend relevant seminars or workshops, and connect with researchers on platforms like LinkedIn to gain insights and potentially get referrals.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your hands-on experience with molecular biology techniques. Be ready to share specific examples of your work with cancer cell culture and chromatin immunoprecipitation, as these are crucial for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Show your enthusiasm for collaborative research. Highlight any past experiences where you worked effectively in a team, as this role requires good communication skills and the ability to contribute to a research environment.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the key responsibilities and essential requirements. Make sure you understand the specific skills and experiences they are looking for, especially in areas like cancer biology and molecular techniques.
Craft Your Personal Statement: Your personal statement should be up to 1000 words and clearly articulate your interest in the role. Use specific examples from your experience that demonstrate how you meet the competencies outlined in the job description.
Highlight Relevant Experience: When detailing your experience, focus on your work with cancer cell culture, molecular biology techniques, and any relevant research projects. Be sure to mention any statistical analysis tools or bioinformatics knowledge if applicable.
Proofread and Format: Before submitting your application, proofread your CV and personal statement for any errors. Ensure that your documents are well-organised and formatted professionally, as this reflects your attention to detail.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Open University UK
✨Know Your Research
Familiarise yourself with the latest developments in epigenetics and liquid biopsies. Being able to discuss recent studies or breakthroughs will show your genuine interest and understanding of the field.
✨Demonstrate Technical Skills
Be prepared to talk about your experience with molecular biology techniques, especially those mentioned in the job description like DNA/RNA extraction and chromatin immunoprecipitation. Providing specific examples will strengthen your case.
✨Show Team Spirit
This role requires collaboration, so be ready to share examples of how you've successfully worked in teams before. Highlight your communication skills and how you contribute to a positive team environment.
✨Prepare Your Personal Statement
Your CV and personal statement should clearly outline why you're interested in this role and how your skills align with the requirements. Tailor your examples to reflect the key responsibilities and essential skills listed in the job description.
