Research Associate (Jackson Group) (Fixed Term)
Research Associate (Jackson Group) (Fixed Term)
We are looking for a talented and motivated postdoctoral scientist to join the lab of Professor Sir Steve Jackson, based in the internationally renowned Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, located on the Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, UK.
Targeted radioligand therapy (TRT) is developing rapidly as a cancer treatment, yet the molecular and cellular mechanisms that shape tumour sensitivity and resistance to alpha and beta emitting TRT agents and how these mechanisms may be leveraged for therapeutic benefit are still not fully defined. This AstraZeneca CRUK collaborative project will investigate the fundamental biological determinants of responses to TRT agents, with the aim of identifying predictive biomarkers and developing rational combination strategies to enhance treatment efficacy.
The postholder will:
- Design and conduct CRISPR screens in human cancer cell models to identify genetic drivers of sensitivity and resistance to alpha and beta emitting TRT agents.
- Characterise how alterations in DNA damage response (DDR) pathways and associated cellular processes influence responses to TRT agents.
- Generate multiple gene knockouts, inducible expression systems, and related approaches to investigate the functional roles of candidate targets in the context of radioligand exposures.
- Carry out follow up validation and mechanistic studies, including analyses of DNA damage signalling, cell survival assays, imaging based assays, and additional CRISPR screens, to fully characterise novel genetic and functional relationships.
- Undertake specialist training and certification for work with radioactive materials.
The work will be multi-disciplinary, combining recently established targeted radioligand therapies with genome engineering and genetic screening approaches in human tissue culture cells with next-generation sequencing, as well as bioinformatics, cell biology, molecular biology and biochemistry.
Essential criteria
Candidates are expected to be comfortable with working collaboratively, intellectually independent and highly motivated and must have a PhD in biological sciences or be close to completing their postgraduate degree. Candidates should have strong experience in mammalian cell biology. A background in ionizing radiation, DNA damage/repair as well as an understanding of CRISPR-Cas9 technologies are desirable. While the project will benefit from access to expert bioinformaticians within the group, some knowledge of bioinformatics is also desirable. Applicants should have excellent written and spoken English communication skills and demonstrate excellent strong attention to detail and organisation.
You will play a key role in a large, vibrant and interactive research group, so a collaborative, friendly and collegial attitude is essential.
The position offers a competitive salary, and the successful candidate will enjoy the diverse, vibrant and highly supportive research environment of the CRUK Cambridge Institute and the University of Cambridge.
Please send applications in the following format: a CV; the names and contact details of two referees; and a one to two-page cover letter explaining why you wish to be considered for the post, what you will bring to the project and listing your laboratory experience to date. Please do not send academic certificates at this stage.
Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 2 years in the first instance.
The closing date for applications is Sunday 3rd May, with interviews expected to take place shortly after this date.
Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.
Appointment at Research Associate level is dependent on having a PhD. Those who have submitted but not yet received their PhD will initially be appointed as a Research Assistant (Grade 5, Point 38, £34,610) moving to Research Associate (Grade 7) upon confirmation of their PhD award.
If you have any queries regarding the application process, please contact: mailbox-hr@cruk.cam.ac.uk.
Please quote reference SW49390 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
Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute
Salary
£37,694-£46,049
Reference
SW49390
Category
Date published
13 April 2026
Closing date
3 May 2026
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