"Research Associate (Blouet and Karadotttir Labs) (Fixed Term)"

This post will be based across the laboratories of Professor Clemence Blouet (MRC Metabolic Diseases Unit, Institute of Metabolic Science, University of Cambridge) and Professor Ragnhildur Thora Karadottir (Wellcome MRC Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, Director of the MS Society Cambridge Centre for Myelin Repair), on the Cambridge Biomedical Campus.

The Cambridge Stem Cell Institute is an international centre of excellence for stem cell research and regenerative medicine. Scientists in the Institute collaborate to advance our knowledge of various stem cell types and to perform pioneering work in translational research areas, providing the foundation for new medical treatments (https://www.stemcells.cam.ac.uk/).

The Institute of Metabolic Science (IMS) is a multi-disciplinary Institute, within the University of Cambridge Clinical School on the Addenbrooke's Hospital Site of the Cambridge Biomedical Campus. The mission of the IMS is to undertake basic and translational research relevant to the understanding, prevention and treatment of diabetes, obesity and other related endocrine and metabolic disorders.

We are recruiting a postdoctoral researcher to work on a collaborative programme, funded by Eli-Lilly for examining strategies to promote remyelination, and protect against neurodegeneration in mouse models relevant to progressive multiple sclerosis. The research programme will use focal toxin induced demyelinating lesions in the cerebellar circuit, pharmacology with long acting agonists supplied by Eli Lilly, in vivo recordings of neuronal activity, quantitative histology and imaging, ultrastructural and functional measures of remyelination, and mechanistic profiling including single nucleus transcriptomics. We are looking for a dedicated postdoctoral researcher to join this exciting collaboration.

Requirements:

Successful applicants should have a PhD in the field of neuroscience, neuroimmunology, glial biology or neurometabolism or similar, or be close to the completion of their degree. A strong background in vivo animal work, stereotaxic surgery, and imaging is essential for this position. Expertise in vivo recordings and advanced brain-imaging methods would be an advantage. It is essential that the post-holder is organised, able to work collaboratively as a member of a team and can communicate effectively and clearly.

Appointment at Research Associate level is dependent on having a PhD. Those who have submitted but not yet received their PhD will be appointed at Research Assistant level (Grade 5), which will be amended to Research Associate (Grade 7) once PhD has been awarded.

Start date is flexible but can be as early as mid-march 2026.

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 12 months in the first instance.

Once an offer of employment has been accepted, the successful candidate will be required to undergo a basic disclosure (criminal records check) check, a health assessment and a security check.

Informal enquiries about the post are also welcome via email on Ragnhildur Thora Karadottir rk385@cam.ac.uk or Clemence Blouet csb69@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 upload your Curriculum Vitae (CV) and a covering letter in the Upload section of the online application to supplement your application, with contact details of 3 referees (one of which must be your current employer). If you upload any additional documents which have not been requested, we will not be able to consider these as part of your application.

Closing date for all applications is Monday 16 February, with interviews planned for 23 February 2026.

Please quote reference PS48533 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