Research Assistant - Cardiometabolic Disease, Human Brown Adipose Tissue and Stem Cell Models (Fixed Term)

University of Cambridge - Department of Clinical Biochemistry

A Research Assistant position is available in the laboratory of Professor Antonio Vidal-Puig, based at the Wellcome Trusts MRC Institute of Metabolic Science and the Victor Phillip Heart and Lung Research Institute, University of Cambridge. This post is funded by the BBSRC.

The Opportunity

This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research at the interface of human metabolism, stem cell biology, and cardiometabolic disease. The successful candidate will support an ambitious research programme focused on uncovering the molecular drivers of human brown adipose tissue (BAT) development, maturation, and function, using human stem cells derived models to identify novel therapeutic targets for obesity and related cardiometabolic disorders.

You will join an internationally recognised research environment that integrates fundamental biology with translational relevance, working closely with clinicians, computational scientists, and technology platforms across Cambridge and beyond. This is an excellent position for someone seeking strong technical training, intellectual stimulation, and exposure to high-impact, multidisciplinary science.

Our Culture

We are deeply committed to creating a diverse, inclusive, and supportive research environment. We believe that excellent science thrives when different perspectives are valued and when people feel empowered to be themselves. Mentorship and career development are central to our ethos, and we actively support our team members in developing scientific independence, technical expertise, and future career pathways whether in academia, industry, or beyond.

Key Responsibilities

The post holder will contribute to a wide range of laboratory-based activities, including:

• Extensive human stem cell culture and differentiation protocols
• Processing and management of biological samples from ongoing studies
• Routine application of molecular and cellular biology techniques, including:
  • RNA and protein extraction
  • RT-PCR and western blotting
  • Gene editing approaches
  • Flow cytometry
  • Confocal microscopy
• Contribution to large-scale experimental workflows, data generation, and quality control
• Ordering and management of laboratory consumables
• Supporting maintenance of shared equipment and contributing to the smooth organisation of the laboratory

Essential Skills & Experience

Applicants should have:

• A BSc (or equivalent) in Biology, Biochemistry, or a related discipline
• Proven experience working in a laboratory research environment
• Strong proficiency in cell culture and familiarity with standard molecular biology techniques
• A high level of motivation, organisation, and attention to detail
• The ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team
• Good IT, data management, and communication skills

Desirable Experience

Experience in one or more of the following will be positively considered:

• Confocal microscopy
• Gene editing technologies
• Lipidomics or metabolomics
• Large-scale or high-throughput screening approaches
• Bioinformatics or computational data analysis
• Human stem cells based models

Proposed start date: As soon as possible

Fixed-term: Funded until 31/03/2027, with potential renewal subject to funding availability

To apply online for this vacancy and to view further information about the role, please click 'Apply' above.

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.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.