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- Tasks: Conduct cutting-edge research on DNA G-quadruplexes and their role in cancer.
- Company: Join a prestigious team led by Professor Sir Shankar Balasubramanian.
- Benefits: Fixed-term position with opportunities for professional growth and collaboration.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in cancer research and contribute to groundbreaking discoveries.
- Qualifications: PhD in chemical biology or related field, with a passion for DNA mechanisms.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to equality and inclusion in science.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Overview
Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 2 years in the first instance. Applications are invited for a postdoctoral chemical biologist to work with Professor Sir Shankar Balasubramanian on the chemical biology of nucleic acids, funded by Cancer Research UK. The successful applicant will work on an interdisciplinary project to elucidate the function and biological mechanisms of four-stranded DNA G-quadruplexes and to investigate their potential as therapeutic targets and biomarkers of cancer. The position is available from 1st March 2026.
Responsibilities
- Conduct research on the chemical biology of nucleic acids and four-stranded DNA G-quadruplexes.
- Collaborate in an interdisciplinary project to investigate potential therapeutic targets and biomarkers for cancer.
- Work as part of a multi-disciplinary team and contribute to project goals and timelines.
Qualifications
- Background in chemical biology, with strong interest in DNA-related mechanisms.
- Experience in biochemistry, molecular biology and nucleic acid–protein interactions is highly desirable.
- PhD in a relevant discipline (or near completion).
Application details
Please upload a 2-page Curriculum Vitae (CV), a covering letter that explains your motivations for the position and publications list in the Upload section of the online application. If you upload any additional documents that have not been requested, we will not be able to consider these as part of your application. Queries regarding this post should be directed to Jo Lockhart, Science Administrator to the Balasubramanian group, at BalasubramanianRecruitment@ch.cam.ac.uk. Please quote reference MA48583 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.
Equality and inclusion
The Department holds an Athena SWAN Silver award for women in science, technology, engineering, mathematics and medicine. The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society. The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.
Research Associate - Chemical Biologist x 2 (Fixed Term) in Cambridge employer: University of Cambridge Vet School
Contact Detail:
University of Cambridge Vet School Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Associate - Chemical Biologist x 2 (Fixed Term) in Cambridge
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, especially those connected to the project you're interested in. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that a CV just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by diving deep into the research area. Familiarise yourself with recent publications and breakthroughs related to G-quadruplexes. Showing genuine interest and knowledge can really set you apart!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview or networking event, drop a quick thank-you email. It keeps you on their radar and shows your enthusiasm for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it gives you a chance to showcase your skills and motivations directly to us.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate - Chemical Biologist x 2 (Fixed Term) in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make sure to explain why you're passionate about the role and how your background in chemical biology aligns with the project. We want to see your enthusiasm and motivation, so let your personality come through!
Tailor Your CV: Don’t just send a generic CV! Tailor it to highlight your relevant experience in biochemistry and molecular biology. We’re looking for specific skills related to nucleic acid–protein interactions, so make sure those stand out in your application.
Follow the Application Guidelines: We can’t stress this enough: stick to the application guidelines! Upload only the requested documents—a 2-page CV, cover letter, and publications list. If you add extra stuff, we won’t be able to consider it, and we don’t want that to happen!
Apply Through Our Website: Make your life easier by applying through our website! It’s straightforward and ensures your application goes directly to us. Plus, you’ll get to register an account with our recruitment system, which is super handy for tracking your application status.
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Cambridge Vet School
✨Know Your Nucleic Acids
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of nucleic acids and G-quadruplexes. Familiarise yourself with the latest research, especially the papers mentioned in the job description. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show your genuine interest and expertise.
✨Showcase Your Collaboration Skills
This role involves working in a multi-disciplinary team, so be prepared to discuss your previous collaborative experiences. Think of specific examples where you successfully worked with others to achieve project goals, and how you contributed to timelines.
✨Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter
When applying, ensure your CV and cover letter are tailored to highlight your relevant experience in chemical biology and molecular interactions. Clearly articulate your motivations for wanting to work on this specific project with Professor Sir Shankar Balasubramanian.
✨Prepare Questions for Them
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the project, the team dynamics, and future directions of the research. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the position is the right fit for you.
