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Research Associate (Fixed Term)

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University of Cambridge

Cambridge

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Research Associate (Fixed Term)

Postdoctoral

8 May 2026

Location

Cambridge

University of Cambridge

Type

Fixed Term

Salary

£37,694-£46,049

Required Qualifications

Postdoctoral experience
Obligate intracellular bacteria
Cellular microbiology
Advanced imaging
Biochemical approaches
Cell biology

Research Areas

Chlamydia trachomatis
Cellular microbiology
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR)
Infectious disease
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Research Associate (Fixed Term)

Research Associate (Fixed Term)

We are seeking an experienced postdoctoral scientist to join Dr Richard Hayward's team to investigate the cellular microbiology of Chlamydia trachomatis, a leading cause of infertility and infectious blindness worldwide.

Our research addresses two urgent priorities for global health: tackling infectious disease and reducing reliance on antibiotics in the fight against antimicrobial resistance (AMR). The obligate intracellular pathogen Chlamydia exquisitely remodels mammalian cells to create a protected intracellular compartment, where it can replicate or persist, hidden from immune defences and largely shielded from antibiotics. Current treatments rely on high antibiotic doses, reinfection is common, and intracellular compartmentalisation reduces drug effectiveness. The postdoctoral researcher will employ multidisciplinary approaches (advanced imaging, biochemical, cell biology approaches) to understand how Chlamydia forms and maintains this replicative compartment. By uncovering this fundamental pathogen biology, we aim to identify new therapeutic targets, guide vaccine development, and reduce antibiotic reliance.

This post is a unique and prestigious opportunity for an experienced cellular microbiologist with significant experience and an outstanding track record of working with obligate intracellular bacteria under containment. In addition to driving semi-independent projects within the team, it is envisaged that a suitable candidate would also be mentored towards an independent career development application. The successful candidate will automatically be made a member of the Trinity Postdoctoral Society.

The ability to work enthusiastically both independently and as part of a team, coupled with excellent communication, organisational and problem-solving skills is essential. Other responsibilities include developing and driving research objectives and writing up work for presentation and publication.

Please ensure that you upload your Curriculum Vitae (CV) with a covering letter detailing project and career development aspirations and include a publications list in the upload section of the online application. Please provide contact details, including an email address of two referees. If you upload any additional documents that have not been requested, we will not be able to consider these as part of your application.

Once an offer of employment has been accepted, the successful candidate will be required to undergo a health assessment.

We particularly welcome applications from women and /or candidates from a BME background for this vacancy as they are currently under-represented at this level in our Department.

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

Please quote reference PK49364 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 Pathology

Salary
£37,694-£46,049

Reference
PK49457

Category
Research

Date published
17 April 2026

Closing date
8 May 2026

Download further information: Further Particulars

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Frequently Asked Questions

🎓What qualifications are required for this Research Associate position?

This postdoctoral Research Associate role requires an experienced scientist with a proven track record in cellular microbiology and working with obligate intracellular bacteria under containment conditions. Key skills include advanced imaging, biochemical, and cell biology approaches. Enthusiasm for independent and team-based work, plus excellent communication and problem-solving, is essential. Explore more on postdoc opportunities or research jobs.

📝How do I apply for this Chlamydia research postdoc at Cambridge?

Upload your CV, covering letter detailing project and career aspirations, and publications list. Provide two referees' details. Quote reference PK49457 and click 'Apply' via the online system. Additional unrequested documents will not be considered. Health assessment follows offer acceptance. See free resume template and cover letter template for tips.

💰What is the salary and employment type for this role?

Salary is £37,694-£46,049 for this fixed term Research Associate position in the Department of Pathology. It offers mentorship towards independent career development and membership in the Trinity Postdoctoral Society. Check professor salaries or university salaries for comparisons.

🔬What is the research focus of this Chlamydia trachomatis position?

Investigate how Chlamydia trachomatis remodels host cells to form a protected intracellular compartment, addressing antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and infectious diseases causing infertility and blindness. Use multidisciplinary methods to identify therapeutic targets and support vaccine development. Ideal for cellular microbiologists; view related postdoctoral success tips.

When is the application deadline and is there visa sponsorship?

Closing date is 8 May 2026. The University requires eligibility to live and work in the UK; no explicit visa sponsorship mentioned. Applications from women and BME candidates encouraged. University supports equality and diversity. Browse research assistant jobs for similar roles.

🚀What career development opportunities does this post offer?

Drive semi-independent projects, receive mentorship for independent career applications, and join the Trinity Postdoctoral Society. Focus on high-impact publications in Chlamydia biology to combat AMR. Learn more via how to thrive in postdoc roles.
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