The Deane and Rayner laboratories at the Cambridge Institute for Medical Research are recruiting a Postdoctoral Research Associate to work as part of an ongoing team project that explores the function of a multi-gene family that is expanded in the genomes of Plasmodium vivax and other related neglected human malaria parasites.
The project builds on a recent publication that established that these tryptophan-rich antigens (TRAgs) have lipid binding activity (PMID: 37709739). This is a short-term position to produce high-quality purified TRAg proteins for structural and functional studies. It will be absolutely essential that the successful candidate has demonstrable experience in: protein expression using HEK293F-based mammalian expression systems; structure determination including X-ray crystallography of protein-ligand complexes; and biophysical characterisation of protein interactions such as using biolayer interferometry or isothermal titration calorimetry. Additional desirable skills include computational modelling of protein complexes and protein-ligand complexes as well as experience with molecular biology approaches for cloning and mutagenesis of new expression constructs. An understanding of how pathogens hijack host-cell pathways will also be advantageous. The successful applicant will also have demonstrated their capacity to produce high-quality data by having first author peer-reviewed publications.
The primary focus will be on carrying out outstanding academic research which will contribute directly to collaborative papers. The project provides substantial scope for innovation, creativity and exercising scientific judgement. You will work as part of a vibrant interdisciplinary team with colleagues in both the Rayner and Deane laboratories in the Cambridge Institute for Medical Research. You are expected to contribute to that positive team environment, supporting and training others where needed and working together to create the best possible outputs within the time available.
The Cambridge Institute for Medical Research (CIMR) is located on the Cambridge Biomedical Campus and it is a collaborative institute at the interface between fundamental research and the clinic, with a mission to determine the molecular mechanisms of disease in order to advance human health.
This full-time fixed-term post is available for 6 months from start date.
Informal enquiries to Janet Deane jed55@cam.ac.uk
Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.
Please ensure that you upload a covering letter and CV in the Upload section of the online application. The covering letter should outline how you match the criteria for the post and why you are applying for this role. If you upload any additional documents which have not been requested, we will not be able to consider these as part of your application.
Please include details of your referees, including email address and phone number, one of which must be your most recent line manager.
Closing Date: 8th November 2026
Interview Date: to be confirmed
Please quote reference SD51362 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.
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.
Key information
Department/location
C.I.M.R. Clinical Neurosciences
Salary
£37,694-£46,049
Reference
SD51362
Category
Date published
9 October 2026
Closing date
8 November 2026