Academic Jobs Logo
University of Cambridge  Jobs

Research Assistant - Bonfio Group (Fixed Term)

Applications Close:

University of Cambridge

Cambridge, UK

5 Star Employer Ranking
Is this job right for you? View Vital Job Information and Save Time

Research Assistant - Bonfio Group (Fixed Term)

Research Assistant

24 April 2026

Location

Cambridge, UK

University of Cambridge

Type

Full-time, Fixed-term (3 years)

Start Date

1st October 2026

Salary

£33,002-£35,608

Required Qualifications

Undergraduate Degree in Biochemistry or Biophysics
Laboratory experience in nucleic acid biochemistry (essential)
Membrane biophysics knowledge (desirable)
Excellent communication and teamwork skills

Research Areas

Catalytic nucleic acid chemistry
Ribozymes and primitive membranes
Early Earth pathways
Lipid membranes and compartments
86% Job Post Completeness

Our Job Post Completeness indicates how much vital information has been provided for this job listing. Academic Jobs has done the heavy lifting for you and summarized all the important aspects of this job to save you time.

Apply Now

Research Assistant - Bonfio Group (Fixed Term)

Research Assistant - Bonfio Group (Fixed Term)

We are seeking to recruit a Research Assistant to work on a new project in the Bonfio laboratory, Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, UK. The project will push the bounds of catalytic nucleic acid chemistry, exploring pathways by which ribozymes and primitive membranes could have interacted on early Earth.

Research in the Bonfio Laboratory focuses on the chemical origins and properties of early lipid membranes and compartments. Link - https://www.bioc.cam.ac.uk/research/faculty/claudia-bonfio.

The position would suit an ambitious and talented graduate who has completed an Undergraduate Degree in Biochemistry or Biophysics, and is keen to gain further laboratory research experience.

The key responsibilities of the post will be conducting an independent research project, assisting with projects ongoing in the lab, and contributing to lab organisation and general lab duties.

The ideal candidate will have a strong aptitude for scientific research, a desire to learn and perfect new techniques, excellent communication and team work skills. Previous laboratory experience in nucleic acid biochemistry is essential; knowledge of membrane biophysics is desirable. More specialised training will be provided throughout.

Applicants should submit a CV citing relevant experience, a cover letter explaining why they are suitable for the position and contact information for at least two referees.

The successful candidate would be expected to start at the beginning of October 2026. This is a full-time position for 3 years in the first instance, with the possibility of carrying out a PhD (subject to all admission criteria for postgraduate students being fulfilled) from October 2026 in a parallel to this role.

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available from 1st October 2026 until 30th September 2029, in the first instance.

Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.

For informal enquiries, please contact Dr Claudia Bonfio (https://www.bioc.cam.ac.uk/research/faculty/claudia-bonfio) via cb2036@cam.ac.uk

For queries regarding the application process, please contact the Biochemistry HR Team via: personnel@bioc.cam.ac.uk

Please quote reference PH49358 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.

Apply online

Key information

Department/location

Department of Biochemistry

Salary

£33,002-£35,608

Reference

PH49358

Category

Research

Date published

17 April 2026

Closing date

24 April 2026

Download further information

Tell them AcademicJobs.com sent you!

Apply Now

Frequently Asked Questions

🎓What qualifications are required for the Research Assistant position in Bonfio Group?

The position requires an Undergraduate Degree in Biochemistry or Biophysics. Previous laboratory experience in nucleic acid biochemistry is essential, while knowledge of membrane biophysics is desirable. Strong aptitude for scientific research, desire to learn new techniques, and excellent communication and teamwork skills are key. Specialized training will be provided. For CV tips, see our free resume template. More advice on research assistant jobs.

🔬What are the key responsibilities in the Bonfio Group Research Assistant role?

Responsibilities include conducting an independent research project on catalytic nucleic acid chemistry and ribozyme-membrane interactions, assisting with ongoing lab projects, and contributing to lab organisation and general duties. Focus is on pushing bounds in early Earth chemistry within the Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge. Explore lab details at Bonfio Laboratory.

📝How to apply for the Research Assistant Bonfio Group position?

Submit a CV citing relevant experience, a cover letter explaining suitability, and contact details for at least two referees. Quote reference PH49358. Apply online via the recruitment system. Use our free cover letter template for guidance. For process queries, email personnel@bioc.cam.ac.uk.

📅What is the start date, duration, and PhD opportunity for this role?

Start at the beginning of October 2026 (full-time for 3 years until 30th September 2029). Possibility of pursuing a PhD in parallel, subject to admission criteria. Funds are fixed-term. Check postdoctoral success tips for research career advice.

💰What is the salary and who to contact for enquiries about the position?

Salary: £33,002-£35,608. For informal enquiries, contact Dr Claudia Bonfio at cb2036@cam.ac.uk or visit Bonfio Lab page. University supports equality, diversity, and inclusion; eligibility to work in UK required. See research jobs for similar roles.

🧪Is laboratory experience in specific areas required for this biochemistry role?

Nucleic acid biochemistry laboratory experience is essential; membrane biophysics desirable. The role suits ambitious graduates keen on early Earth chemistry research. Training provided for new techniques. Prepare with research assistant excellence tips (adaptable globally).
5 Jobs Found

Liverpool John Moores University

Student Life Building, 10 Copperas Hill, Liverpool L3 5AH, UK
Staff / Administration
Closes: May 16, 2026

University of Southampton

University Rd, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK
Staff / Administration
Closes: May 1, 2026

University of Southampton

University Rd, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK
Staff / Administration
Closes: May 1, 2026
View More