24 Postdoctoral Fellowship at University of Cambridge, United Kingdom

The High Energy Physics group at the University of Cambridge seeks to appoint an outstanding researcher to join its effort on the LHCb experiment. The Cambridge group is actively involved in the LHCb physics programme, and has responsibilities in the RICH project, Real-Time-Analysis project and in data processing. The group supports the maintenance, operation and upgrades of the RICH subdetectors, and carries out research and development on the RICH electronics and MightyTracker device with a view to its use in the next phase upgrade of LHCb (Upgrade-II). The group has diverse interests in the exploitation of LHCb data, searching for physics beyond the Standard Model. Particular interests include studies of rare B-hadron decays and of CP-violating effects in charmless B decays.

We are looking for a particle physicist with experience in instrumentation to undertake research and development for future upgrades of the LHCb RICH system. Experience in the application and characterization of single photon sensitive devices, data acquisition and analysis of data is also essential. The successful candidate is expected to take a leading role in these or other associated areas, and to contribute to several aspects of the Group’s activities on the LHCb project.

The post is foreseen to be based in Cambridge with the possibility of long-term attachment at CERN and various other shorter travel where appropriate.

You will hold (or be close to obtaining) a PhD in Particle Physics (or a related area). You will have strong background in detector R&D and in the relevant research techniques in experimental particle physics. You will also show evidence of ability to identify new research opportunities or develop new techniques.

The High Energy Physics group at the University of Cambridge seeks to appoint an outstanding researcher to join its effort on the LHCb experiment. The Cambridge group is actively involved in the LHCb physics programme, and has responsibilities in the RICH project, Real-Time-Analysis project and in data processing. The group supports the maintenance, operation and upgrades of the RICH subdetectors, and carries out research and development on the RICH electronics and MightyTracker device with a view to its use in the next phase upgrade of LHCb (Upgrade-II). The group has diverse interests in the exploitation of LHCb data, searching for physics beyond the Standard Model. Particular interests include studies of rare B-hadron decays and of CP-violating effects in charmless B decays.

The role holder will analyse data from the LHCb experiment with focus on the study of rare B decay modes, which provide great sensitivity to physics beyond the Standard Model. The LHCb group at Cambridge has played a leading role in the study of the golden channels B(s)- >mumu, and in the measurements of angular observables, CP asymmetries and lepton-flavour universality ratios in other rare B meson decays. The successful candidate is expected to take a leading role in physics analysis in these or other associated areas, and to contribute to several aspects of the Group’s activities on the LHCb project.

A postdoctoral position is available in the Waller laboratory to work on a joint BBSRC-NSF-funded project, in collaboration with Prof Christopher Lane at the University of Rhode Island, to study Nephromyces symbionts as evolutionary precursors to parasitism in Apicomplexa. The project will use fluorescence and electron microscopy techniques to investigate the lifecycle stages and structural details of these cells, and leverage genomics and single-cell RNA-Seq data to interpret their biology and evolution. The position will be based in the University of Cambridge, Department of Biochemistry, Central Cambridge, and interact with colleagues at the University of Rhode Island, USA.

The successful candidate will have a PhD and experience in cell and molecular biology. Knowledge and experience with microscopy methods and microbial eukaryotes will be an advantage but not a requirement. Ability to work both as part of a team, and independently, coupled with excellent communication, organizational and problem-solving skills are required.

The University of Cambridge is a signatory to the San-Francisco Declaration on Research (Assessment DORA) and in recruitment or promotion evaluations will assess research on the basis of its merits rather than the journal or venue in which it is published. Applicants should not include Journal Impact Factors or uncontextualised metrics in their applications. For more information: https://www.research-strategy.admin.cam.ac.uk/research-policy/DORA

Three positions are currently available for Research Associate in Department of Physics, group led by Prof. Zoran Hadzibabic (Quantum Gases and Collective Phenomena).

The aim of the role is to work on experiments on non-equilibrium physics of ultracold atomic gases. The work will involve leading experiments, guiding PhD students, writing up results for publication and presenting them at conferences.

You will hold (or be close to obtaining) a PhD in Physics or a related field, with a proven track record in atomic physics. Preference will be given to candidates with experience in experiments with ultracold atoms, as demonstrated by publications in major journals. A solid understanding of many-body theory is desirable. You will also have proven organisational, communication and team working skills.

The post holder will be located at the Department of Physics, Cavendish Laboratory, JJ Thomson Avenue, Cambridge, CB3 0HE, UK.

Appointment at Research Associate is dependent on having a PhD including those who have submitted but not yet received their PhD (in which case appointment will initially be made at research assistant -Grade 5, and amended to research associate – Grade 7, when the PhD is awarded).

The role of the Research Assistant/Associate position is to carry out research on QD-on-Silicon PICs as part of the UK EPSRC QUDOS (QUantum Dot On Silicon systems for communications, information processing and sensing) project, which is looking to create a new era in optical integration so that all major photonic functions can be implemented on the QD-on-silicon platform.

The RA will also work with collaborators to develop QUDOS building blocks that involves Si, SiN, and III-V QD-on-Si, with the key technology step of developing a temperature-insensitive, low-reflectance, defect-free coupling interface between the III-V area and Si waveguides.

The qualifications, skills and experience required to perform the role are: The applicant has obtained or is close to obtaining a PhD in Electronic Engineering, Physics, Computer Science, or a related discipline; has skills in using photonic simulation software, such as Lumerical and device fabrication; has relevant experience in photonic integrated circuits in PhD/postdoc/job; has experience of photonic device design and testing, clean room, and optical communication link design and testing is an advantage; has a good publishing track record and the ability to work in a team and with external industry partners.

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, which will be amended to Research Associate once the PhD has been awarded.

The Cambridge Lactation Laboratory (https://www.cambridgelactationlab.com/) is seeking an enthusiastic and motivated Research Assistant/Associate to support the Cambridgeshire Multiomics of Milk (CAMB MOM) study. Join a dynamic and growing research group in the Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacology, under the leadership of Dr. Alecia-Jane Twigger. The team is passionate about women’s and infant health and specializes in both experimental (wet lab) and bioinformatic (dry lab) research. Within the group, we will provide you with further training in these disciplines. We also offer the opportunity to undertake 10 days per year of external training programmes to support your career development.

The CAMB MOM study conducts multiomics analyses (lipidomics, metabolomics, proteomics, and transcriptomics) on samples from a cohort of breastfeeding participants in Cambridgeshire. The insights gained from gene-gene interaction networks will be tested using in vitro mammary organoid models and integrated into computational models. By investigating the molecular pathways of human milk production, we aim to resolve breastfeeding challenges and promote optimal long-term health for mothers and infants.

We are looking for passionate and skilled researchers with expertise in molecular/cellular biology and a keen interest in cellular decision-making mechanisms to join our collaborative, multidisciplinary team. The positions would suit those with experience in live-cell microscopy and tracking or in molecular approaches for analysing chromatin and transcription factor binding.

The overarching aim of Sarah Bray’s research group is to explore mechanisms regulating cell choices in development, health, and disease. To discover how developmental signals are decoded in real time in vivo we are using methods for live-imaging of transcription and of nuclear complexes. We now wish to complement these with molecular and genomics approaches to address global and epigenetic mechanisms that are operating to reprogramme enhancers and their target promoters during cell fate transitions.

We are an inclusive and welcoming group, committed to mentoring and supporting the career development of all members. We are looking to recruit highly motivated scientists with strong investigative skills. Experience with genomic analysis of chromatin and transcription factor binding would be an advantage for one of the posts. Knowledge of developmental biology, Drosophila genetics and/or live imaging approaches would be useful.

We will consider applicants at either Research Assistant or Research Associate level. You should have a degree in a STEM/biological subject (Research Assistant) and preferably a PhD (Research Associate), with relevant expertise in cell and molecular biology techniques.

We are pleased to advertise a Research Associate position in Dr Elena Scarpa’s group to investigate the role of tissue-scale confinement during in vivo and in vitro Zebrafish neural crest cell migration.

In vivo, cells migrate through tight spaces and may undergo division in crowded environments, both in physiological and pathological contexts, for example during immune cells diapedesis or cancer cell dissemination. These phenomena are difficult to observe in vivo, especially in mammalian models. Key studies in the field have largely exploited in vitro systems, for example culturing cells in 3D collagen matrices or microfabrication of PDMS microchannels, to mimic interstitial confining environments. From this wealth of work, it has become clear that cells experiencing physical confinement during cell migration suffer mechanical stress. This causes deformation of the largest organelle, the nucleus, and loss of nuclear integrity, thus inducing DNA damage. Physical compression can even promote genetic diversity in cancer cells. In addition, when cells in culture undergo mitosis under mechanical compression, they show extensive cortical blebbing and suffer division defects. Together, these findings show that mechanical stress negatively impacts the integrity of the genome and this has been proposed to underlie cancer initiation and progression. However, the consequences of mechanical compression on cells during in vivo cell migration remain so far unexplored.

The post-holder will carry out general lab management roles: they will oversee the maintenance of fish stocks (crossing and genotyping), day to day running of the laboratory (ordering, organization, maintaining reagents stocks, health and safety) and will contribute to the training of students.

Applications are invited for up to 3 full-time Research Assistants/Research Associates* in Health Economics to work in the Primary Care Unit in the Department of Public Health and Primary Care (DPHPC).

The main purpose of these posts is to undertake health economic evaluations. Two of the posts will contribute to research studies funded by the NIHR, CRUK and ACED to evaluate innovations for the early detection of cancer. One will contribute to an evaluation of interventions for screening and early diagnosis of bowel cancer within CRUK’s TET programme. The other will contribute to an evaluation of breast cancer risk assessment within the CRUK-funded CanRisk programme and the ACED-funded PREVENT-Breast study. Both post-holders will contribute to activities within the new NIHR Policy Research Unit in cancer awareness, screening and early diagnosis. The third post-holder will contribute to health economic evaluations being conducted for the NIHR-funded CONCORD2, PLUS and PHOSPHATE studies. Research interests in any area of health economics are encouraged, but given the duties of the posts, skills and expertise in undertaking cost-effectiveness modelling to evaluate value for money are essential.

The focus of the role will be to establish large scale bioinformatic screens to identify new cases of molecular mimicry. This involves combining protein structure prediction tools (Alphafold, Rosetta) with tailored structure comparison algorithms. In addition, the applicant will explore the natural diversity of DNA mimicking proteins to understand the determinants of successful molecular mimicry. This background knowledge will be used in combination with in silico protein design tools to explore the production of entirely new mimicking proteins. The applicant will also have the opportunity to study the implication of DNA mimicking proteins in prokaryotic gene flow, and more particularly in the spread of antibiotic resistance genes.

This is a bioinformatics role, therefore significant coding experience is essential, with knowledge in protein structure analysis. The candidate must be fluent in Python or R with familiarity in high performance computing. Working knowledge of protein sequence evolution analysis would also be valuable. Candidates with a mixed wet-lab and bioinformatics background are encouraged to apply, as the role can potentially be adapted to include wet-lab experiments depending on the candidate’s expertise and interests. A strong knowledge and, more importantly, a broad curiosity about protein-DNA interactions across the tree of life are essential.

Suitable applicants should hold a PhD in a relevant scientific discipline and be able to demonstrate a driven work ethic and perseverance. A track record in protein structure analysis is a plus. They will ideally have experience of supervising junior lab members and students and be confident at delivering bioinformatic training.

A post-doctoral Research Associate position is available in the Bhatia group starting in November 2024 at the Sainsbury Laboratory Cambridge University. The lab will investigate the mechanistic basis of the function of the plant hormone cytokinin (CK) in plant development using Arabidopsis thaliana as model. CK is a fundamental plant hormone that is conventionally considered to promote cell division in plant aerial organs but surprisingly, can also promote cellular differentiation in aerial organs, in a stage-dependent manner. Therefore, the roles of CK in shaping plant aerial organs are much more diverse than previously thought. How CK regulates and coordinates cell proliferation and differentiation decisions remains largely unclear.

By integrating genetic analyses including genetic mosaics, time-lapse imaging, cellular growth quantifications, and single cell omics, our lab will investigate (i) how CK regulates cell proliferation and differentiation and (ii) how are these distinct cellular effects coordinated in space and time during aerial organ development. The lab will aim to develop cellular and molecular frameworks of CK-mediated coordination of cell proliferation and differentiation that shape plant organ form.

The candidate will be working in a stimulating scientific environment with ample opportunities to learn new techniques. The successful candidate will be encouraged to apply for fellowships with the help of the lab.

The Ali group invites applications for a computational post-doctoral research associate. Our research aims to understand how the multicellular structure of breast tumours determines relapse, metastasis, and therapeutic response. We characterise human breast tumour ecosystems using highly multiplexed tissue analysis via imaging mass cytometry and sophisticated image processing. Quantitative analysis of these data is used to understand tumours as complex, dynamic heterocellular ecosystems1-3.

We are assembling tissue imaging datasets of unprecedented depth and size in both observational studies and clinical trials. This will enable us to unmask spatial phenotypic traits that emerge during disease progression and treatment, and to identify those that drive prognosis and therapeutic response. The main aim of this project is to characterise regulators of an immunosuppressive TME and their impact on immunotherapy response. To address this question reliably, we have generated a novel highly curated dataset using samples from a major breast cancer immunotherapy trial. The project would particularly appeal to computational biologists experienced in immunology or analysis of the TME.

A postdoctoral position is currently available in our lab for a highly talented and motivated individual interested in developing and using our technologies, particularly peptide display, to screen tyrosine and serine protein kinases with the aim to eventually target them better. The aim would be to use the peptides as a template of how to target these kinases using small molecules. Our lab is currently developing technology that allows the screening and computational interpretation of combinatorially complete libraries of mutant protein variants. We are interested in further developing and deploying these technologies in applications ranging from signaling and therapeutics. This position is funded through the Brain Tumour Charity and is in collaboration with Professor Bill Weiss (UCSF) and Professor Kevan Shokat (UCSF) who will collaborate with their expertise in the follow-on stage of the initial peptide screening.

Applicants must have received (or be about to receive) a PhD in protein biochemistry or similar field and must have published at least one first-author research article (papers in submission or on BioRxiv are also acceptable). Expertise in molecular biology, protein crystallography, computational biology/machine learning would be advantageous. An ability to work independently while taking feedback from others and interact well in a multi-disciplinary team environment is required.

Applicants who wish to be considered for this position must also display an ability to undertake project management, method development, data collection and analysis, as they join a collaborative and highly motivated team of researchers in a top ranked university and research institute. You must also have excellent communication and organizational skills, the ability to develop innovative experimental/computational approaches to answer research questions, and thrive both in independent research and while working collaboratively as part of a team. Ideally you have demonstrated creative and independent work in your area of expertise. Strong presentation skills are also required as is the ability to strongly represent our lab and institute when presenting and attending internal and external meetings and conferences.

A position is open for a Postdoctoral Research Associate as part of a collaborative project between the British Antarctic Survey (BAS) and the Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology (CEB) at the University of Cambridge as part of a large scale collaborative project funded under the UKRI cross disciplinary research council funding scheme. The project will be supervised by Prof. Clemens Kaminski (https://laser.ceb.cam.ac.uk ) and Prof. Melody Clark (https://www.bas.ac.uk/profile/mscl/).

This 2-year project aims to develop high-resolution microscopes to study biological processes at sub-zero temperatures, with a focus on understanding cellular mechanisms in Antarctic fish species that live permanently at around 0 degrees or below.

We are interested to see how dynamic biological processes take place such as organelle function, protein folding, transport, etc., in live cells adapted to survive at 0 degrees and below, and to investigate how these processes are affected by rising sea temperatures.

The successful candidate will be tasked with developing two microscopy systems: one for use in a cold room at 0 degrees in BAS’s cold environmental facility, which will need to be partially remotely controlled, and the other involving the adaptation of an existing high-resolution microscope in CEB. This will include incorporating low-temperature technologies to maintain the sample at physiological temperatures, while preventing condensation and ice formation on optics and addressing aberrations caused by refractive index changes and thermal expansion.

Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Associate position to help direct and conduct research in a team of scientists under the leadership of Prof Duncan Astle, alongside a wide team of co-investigators across the University of Cambridge, including Profs Ed Bullmore, Petra Vertes, and Drs Varun Warrier, Danyal Akarca and Sofia Carozza. This new appointment will support a Templeton World Charity Foundation funded research programme aimed at understanding the development of the human brain, and characterising the role of the environment as a driver of variability in that development. This role holder will focus on the use of generative models to simulate the formation of networks over developmental time, so a strong quantitative background is highly desirable for the role.

Research conducted in the lab sits at the intersection between developmental systems neuroscience, cognition, neuroinformatics and computational modelling. Anyone with experience in those areas is encouraged to apply. A hallmark of our work is the application of novel methodological approaches to large scale datasets, so experience with this would be a real advantage.

You should hold a PhD in a relevant field, or be close to submitting your thesis. Experience of prior work anywhere at the intersection of neuroscience, cognitive science, neuroimaging, computational modelling and development is highly desirable for this role.

Good interpersonal skills are important. A requirement is that you can provide clear seminars on complex issues to an interdisciplinary audience, support students and staff, and work as part of a team on collaborative projects.

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a highly motivated and talented post-doctoral biostatistician, statistician or researcher in statistical machine learning to join Dr Brian Tom’s group at the MRC Biostatistics Unit, Cambridge University, to develop and apply statistical methodology in the area of precision medicine.

Dr Brian Tom’s group focuses on using longitudinal data and complex phenotypes and endotypes for improved understanding and decision making in medicine. He has a number of collaborations locally, nationally and internationally. His group sits within the Unit’s Precision Medicine Theme that comprises three other groups, which are complementary with significant interactions and cross-fertilisation. The Theme positions itself at the interface between statistical methods and substantive biomedical applications, which allows for innovation and breadth.

Depending on academic background and research interests, the successful applicant could contribute to research areas/projects related to either: (1) dynamic modelling of high dimensional longitudinal and/or functional biomarker processes and clinical outcomes to characterize and understand disease; (2) causal modelling to assess the impact of time-varying exposures and/or treatments on disease course/progression within a multi-state modelling framework; (3) estimating optimal treatment rules and regimes using observational data; or (4) prioritising data types/variables in mixture models for stratification using regression models or model-based clustering. There is flexibility in the inferential framework adopted, including from frequentist, Bayesian, Generalized Bayes/decision-theoretic or hybrid perspectives.

The successful candidate will have a PhD in a strongly quantitative discipline, ideally (bio)statistics or statistical machine learning, with experience in one or more of the following areas: longitudinal data analysis, event history modelling, causal inference and statistical machine learning. Experience with biomedical or epidemiological applications would be highly advantageous, but not essential. A desire to develop statistical methodology and to address questions of substantive biomedical importance is essential. The ability to work as part of a multi-disciplinary team and to communicate clearly and effectively is important. Good statistical programming skills are required, as is a commitment towards open and reproducible science. Training will be given on the basic concepts necessary to the post. The successful applicant will be supported in their career development with a range of courses and on-the-job training.

We are looking for an enthusiastic full-time Research Associate to join the group of Professor Simon Mendez-Ferrer within the Haematology Department based on the Cambridge Stem Cell Institute of the Cambridge Biomedical Campus (https://www.stemcells.cam.ac.uk/people/pi/mendez-ferrer). For full information on the group’s studies, please see the further information document below.

The project, which is funded by the European Haematology Association, will investigate candidate pathways to improve the outcome of blood stem cell transplantation procedures. Blood stem cell transplantation is routinely performed for lifesaving procedures in patients with blood cancers or inherited metabolic/immune disorders. Allogeneic blood stem cell transplantation generates the graft vs leukaemia effect necessary to eliminate malignant cells. However, many recipients develop a reaction of the graft against their own body (graft vs host disease, which is also a major problem during solid organ transplantation). A major focus will be on novel signalling pathways regulating immune cell metabolism, graft vs host disease and the graft vs leukaemia effect.

The postholder will be supported by and actively collaborate with other group members. Additionally, this project will be assisted by an active network of collaborators in the fields of immune cell metabolism and clinical allogeneic stem cell transplantation. However, previous experience in the topic will be positively valued.

The successful candidate should hold a PhD in a biomedical field or equivalent. Prior experience of laboratory research and excellent communication skills are essential.

The VISIONLab, led by Prof. Sarah Bohndiek, creates and deploys state-of-the-art spectroscopic imaging tools to improve early cancer detection. We are co-located in the Department of Physics and the Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute at the University of Cambridge, providing us with a direct pathway from initial testing of brand-new hardware, to application in animal models and deployment in proof-of-principle human clinical trials at Addenbrooke’s Hospital, accelerating our healthcare impact.

Applications are invited for a Research Associate to join our collaborative research environment to advance and develop and apply state-of-the-art machine learning analysis for spectroscopy data interpretation and novel biomarker identification. You will drive forward a multidisciplinary project at the intersection of biophysical modelling and machine learning. You can make use of the large library of pre-existing datasets from our laboratory to test novel data analysis strategies or engage in current projects to tailor new datasets. You will take a key role in a major EPSRC-funded initiative, the Ubiquitous Optical Healthcare Technologies (UbOHTs) Programme Grant, which focuses on developing the next-generation of biosensors for precision health and is a collaboration between the Universities of Cambridge, York, Strathclyde and Exeter. Involvement in the programme grant will provide opportunities for training, networking and developing leadership skills on a national and international scale.

We are looking for a highly motivated and curiosity-driven individual with a PhD in a topic related to computer science, mathematics, physics, or biomedical optics. Demonstrable experience in successful delivery of computational projects and a high level of confidence in Python programming is essential. Practical knowledge of data-handling from at least one hyperspectral imaging technology, such as diffuse reflectance spectroscopy, photoacoustic imaging, or Raman micro-spectroscopy is desirable. Experience in Monte Carlo modelling of light-tissue interactions, an understanding of computational image reconstruction, or experience in biomedical image analysis would also be desirable. It is essential that you demonstrate a strong open-science ethos.

The Theory of Condensed Matter group at the Cavendish Laboratory, University of Cambridge aims to fill up to 2 Postdoctoral Research Associate positions, until 30th September 2026 (with the possibility of an extension, subject to funding). These are intended as group positions in a research programme involving several academics, including Profs B.Béri, C.Castelnovo, N.Cooper, and A.Lamacraft. We are particularly, though not exclusively, interested in the following research areas: Thermodynamic and response properties in topological magnetic materials, from microscopic modelling to effective theories; Emergent quantum dynamics, in frustrated magnets, driven dissipative, and/or topological quantum many-body systems, and in quantum circuit models; Emergent classical dynamical effects, from kinetically constrained relaxation pathways in topological systems to the non-equilibrium phase behaviour of soft and biological systems.

The Theory of Condensed Matter group offers a connected, lively and stimulating scientific and social environment, with regular activities ranging from internal and external group seminars, graduate lectures and introductory presentations on topics of current research, and social events. It encompasses 8 permanent academics, 35 graduate students and 20 postdoctoral researchers (many of whom hold independent fellowships).

The role holder will be expected to conduct postdoctoral-level research in collaboration with some of the investigators named above, as appropriate for the research topic. Collaboration with other members of the group, in particular other postdoc and junior members, as well as collaborations across and outside the department are highly encouraged. The role holder will also be expected to contribute to the general life and scientific environment of the group, e.g., contributing to the organisation of internal and external seminars, and offering graduate-level lectures based on their current topic of research.

As the principal museum of the University of Cambridge and the largest cultural venue in the region, The Fitzwilliam Museum acts as a crucial bridge between the University, the City and the rest of the world, and has an international reputation for extraordinary research, world class exhibitions, award-winning public programmes and significant collections spanning many cultures and centuries. The Hamilton Kerr Institute (HKI) is a sub-department of the museum and is one of the world’s leading centres for teaching and research in paintings conservation and heritage science.

The Fitzwilliam Museum also has one of the world’s most important collections of flower paintings and botanical drawings dating from the sixteenth to the twenty-first centuries. The post-holder will lead on researching an aspect of the botanical collection, ensuring improved documentation and accessibility of these collections, working closely with our Documentation and Photography teams. They will have the opportunity to formulate new research projects, building partnerships in the University of Cambridge and beyond, and participating in research networks such as Collections-Connections-Communities. We particularly encourage applicants who will seek to bring new perspectives to these collections, including from under-represented audiences and considering collection histories.

Furthermore, the postholder will have the opportunity to contribute to teaching and to develop skills and experience in museological practice, including temporary displays and exhibitions, in the museum and online. They will support the Curator, Northern European Paintings & Drawings, including with collections enquiries and access, and work with other curators, collections management staff, photographers, documentation experts, conservators, scientists, learning staff and other colleagues across the Museum and the wider University.

We are looking for an ambitious senior researcher to join an internationally renowned research Unit and a team carrying out high profile work at the cutting edge of development and application of Bayesian methods to infectious disease epidemiology.

The post-holder will be part of Professor De Angelis’ team within the Population Health Theme at the MRC Biostatistics Unit (MRC-BSU). The project, funded by a Wellcome Discovery award in collaboration with the Universities of Oxford and Manchester and the UK Health Security Agency, aims to develop new methods to understand community transmission of respiratory infections using data from the Office of National Statistics (ONS) COVID-19 Infection Survey (CIS).

The ONS CIS is a unique household survey with longitudinal follow up of over 500,000 participants who were regularly swabbed for SARS-CoV-2 infection at over 10 million visits, with positive swabs sent for whole-genome deep sequencing. A subset of participants were additionally tested for RSV and influenza. Over 100,000 high-quality SARS-CoV-2 sequences are available, linked to data on behaviour, symptoms and vaccination status collected at each visit. The ONS CIS was regularly used to estimate prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 in the population to inform policy during the pandemic (e.g. Coronavirus (COVID-19) Infection Survey, UK: 3 December 2021). However, these data remain under-utilised.

The post-holder will lead research to exploit the ONS CIS data collection to better understand community infection and transmission. Starting with SARS-CoV-2, the main task is to develop new methods to jointly estimate incidence and transmission, integrating the rich epidemological and genomic data available. This will allow quantification of changes in transmission across pandemic waves while disentangling the contribution of different viral lineages. An important constraint in this project is the need for individual-level data to remain within a computationally limited secure research environment, so innovative approaches to computation will be key. Outputs will include new estimation tools and inform the design of future population surveys, contributing to the pandemic preparedness agenda.

The successful candidate will have a PhD in a strongly quantitative discipline, and a record of previous postdoctoral research experience at the level of Research Associate. Specialist knowledge in Bayesian statistics and strong computational skills are essential as is an ability to produce high-quality academic outputs, experience of building, strengthening and sustaining positive collaborative relationships and an enthusiasm for collaborating with non-statistical scientists. Experience in infectious disease transmission modelling is also required. The successful candidate will be supported in their career development with formal courses and on-the-job training. MRC-BSU is one of Europe’s leading biostatistics research institutions. Our focus is to develop and apply new analytical and computational strategies for the challenging tasks facing biomedicine and public health. The Unit is situated on the Cambridge Biomedical Campus, one of the world’s most vibrant centres of biomedical research, which includes the University of Cambridge’s Clinical School, two major hospitals, the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, and the world headquarters of Astra Zeneca.

The GBC provides analytical and data management support to research groups within the Metabolic Research Laboratories (MRL). This covers aspects of genomics such as genome sequencing and single cell approaches, in addition to broader data integration efforts across multiple types of ‘omics data. This advertised role provides analytical expertise in the design, implementation and interpretation of projects utilising human genetics data.

The role holder will use their strong computational background and experience of using statistical genetics approaches to analyse whole exome/genome sequence data in both clinical genetic studies and/or large-scale population studies, such as the UK Biobank Study.

Applicants must have a PhD in genetic epidemiology, statistical genetics, computational biology, bioinformatics, or closely related fields.

This is a fixed term Senior Research Associate (SRA) position (REF returnable) with funding available until 31.03.2030 and is available with immediate effect.

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.

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

Research Associate (SRA) level; appointment as an SRA will require evidence of an independent research reputation. Due to the levels of skills and experience required we anticipate making an appointment either on the RA scale or towards the bottom of the SRA scale.

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.

The Fenscapes Project is seeking to appoint a Research Associate to lead the enhanced analysis of Roman period plant and animal remains from the Fens of eastern England. The post-holder will be responsible for developing new insights into the economy of the Roman Fens based upon synthetic statistical analyses of environmental archaeological data. The post-holder will also work with the Fenscapes team to explore connections between their analyses and comparable datasets for the Later Iron Age and early medieval periods.

The role involves developing new low-power systems and algorithms to significantly enhance the capabilities of onboard AI when used within small satellites. The project is a collaborative effort involving teams at the University of Manchester and University of Southampton and partners at the Alan Turing Institute and HMGCC. The research will seek innovations at both the software and hardware level. The use of a novel memory system and recent advances in low-power machine-learning accelerators will create significant scope to explore new research directions. On-board processing tasks will include object detection, compression, interpretation and various image retrieval tasks. The “Perfect Recollection for Clearer Insight” project is funded by EPSRC.

Successful candidates at the Research Associates must hold a PhD in a relevant subject, at the Research Assistant level must hold preferably distinction (or equivalent) on any Masters results, or equivalent experience. Excellent knowledge of computer science is expected. Familiarity with building and evaluating hardware and software systems, efficient ML techniques, or ML for earth observation would be desirable.

Applicants should be prepared to collaborate with other project researchers to help develop complete hardware and software demonstrators. They will have excellent programming skills (e.g. in Python, C++, etc.).