Research Assistant (Fixed Term)

We are looking to appoint a Research Assistant to join the Patil lab at the MRC Toxicology Unit.

The Patil lab investigates the physiology of microorganisms in the context of complex microbial communities, such as the human gut microbiome. This role will use a combination of microbiological, genetic and analytical techniques to isolate and engineer bacteria for use as next-generation probiotics. The role will be closely supervised by post-doctoral researchers and therefore represents an excellent training opportunity for candidates seeking to gain research experience.

Candidates will hold, or be close to completing, an undergraduate or Masters' degree in an appropriate field (e.g. microbiology, biomedical science, biochemistry, molecular biology) and/or have relevant experience at an equivalent level. Some previous expertise in microbiology, DNA sequencing and/or mass spectrometry is desired. You will be able to work both independently and as part of a team, have excellent communication, organisational and problem-solving skills, as well as enthusiasm for working in a diverse inter-disciplinary team.

Further information on the Toxicology Unit can be found at (https://www.mrc-tox.cam.ac.uk )

Relevant publications: 1. https://www.nature.com/articles/s41564-025-02032-5 2. https://www.biorxiv.org/content/10.1101/2025.05.14.653412v1.abstract

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 12 months commencing from 1st September 2025.

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

Informal enquiries are invited and can be directed to Kiran R. Patil (kp533@mrc-tox.cam.ac.uk )

If you have any queries regarding the application process, please contact hradmin@mrc-tox.cam.ac.uk

Further information can be found on our website: https://www.mrc-tox.cam.ac.uk

Please quote reference PU46534 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.