Job Summary Table of Research Assistant

Job Description Summary

🔬 Exciting opportunity for a Research Assistant to join Dr Clémence Blouet’s Group at the University of Cambridge’s Institute of Metabolic Science. This role focuses on understanding how brain nutrient sensing influences appetite, metabolism, and body weight regulation.

Responsibilities

• 🧪 Prepare samples for histological analysis using standard techniques
• 🔬 Utilize confocal microscopy for imaging histology samples
• 📊 Perform image analysis and develop new quantification protocols
• 📝 Maintain detailed records in an electronic lab book
• 🐁 Contribute to basic mouse assessments and colony management
• 🧠 Participate in laboratory-wide discussions on field developments
• 📚 Assist in training students and other laboratory members
• 🧾 Oversee general laboratory management tasks

Benefits and Perks

• 🏫 Work in a world-class research environment at the University of Cambridge
• 🚀 Opportunity to develop research skills in neurobiology
• 👥 Collaborate with leading scientists in the field
• 📈 Potential for career growth and skill development

Company Overview

The University of Cambridge is a world-renowned institution known for its cutting-edge research and academic excellence. The Institute of Metabolic Science, where this position is based, is at the forefront of research in metabolism, endocrinology, and related fields.

Company Culture

🌟 At the University of Cambridge, you’ll be part of a collaborative and intellectually stimulating environment. The culture encourages innovation, critical thinking, and the pursuit of groundbreaking research. You’ll have the opportunity to work alongside some of the brightest minds in the field and contribute to meaningful scientific discoveries.

Career Growth Opportunities

📚 This position offers excellent prospects for career development in the field of neurobiology and metabolic science. You’ll gain hands-on experience with advanced research techniques, have the chance to contribute to important studies, and potentially co-author research papers. The skills and knowledge acquired in this role can serve as a springboard for future academic or industry positions in biomedical research.

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging

🌈 The University of Cambridge is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive research community. We believe that bringing together individuals from various backgrounds and perspectives enhances creativity and innovation in scientific research. The Institute of Metabolic Science actively promotes an environment where all team members feel valued and supported.

Equal Opportunity Statement

The University of Cambridge actively supports equality, diversity, and inclusion, encouraging applications from all sections of society. We are committed to the principle of equal opportunity in education and employment.

Remote Work Policy

🏢 This position requires on-site work at the Institute of Metabolic Science in Cambridge, UK. The nature of laboratory-based research necessitates physical presence for most tasks. However, some aspects of data analysis and report writing may allow for occasional flexible working arrangements, subject to departmental policies.

Application Process

1. 📝 Review the job requirements and ensure you meet the essential criteria
2. 🖋️ Prepare a tailored CV and covering letter outlining your suitability for the role
3. 🖥️ Register an account on the University of Cambridge recruitment system
4. 📤 Submit your application online, including all required documents
5. 📅 If shortlisted, you will be invited for an interview in the first week of September

Application Deadline

⏰ The closing date for applications is 1st August 2024. We encourage early applications as the position may be filled before the deadline if an exceptional candidate is identified.

How to Apply

To apply for this position, please click the ‘Apply’ button on the job posting page. Ensure that you upload both a covering letter and CV in the Upload section of the online application. The covering letter should detail how you match the criteria for the post and your motivations for applying.

Social Media Links

• University of Cambridge LinkedIn
• University of Cambridge Twitter
• University of Cambridge Facebook

FAQs or Additional Information

Q: Is this position suitable for international applicants?

A: While we welcome applications from all qualified individuals, please note that the University has a responsibility to ensure all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK. International applicants should check their eligibility for UK work authorization before applying.

Q: What are the working hours for this position?

A: This is a full-time position with standard working hours, typically Monday to Friday. However, some flexibility may be required to accommodate specific experimental procedures or deadlines.

Q: Is there potential for the fixed-term contract to be extended?

A: The initial contract is fixed until 9 January 2026. Any potential extension would depend on funding availability and performance, but cannot be guaranteed at this stage.

Q: What career progression opportunities are available?

A: While this is a fixed-term position, the skills and experience gained are highly valuable for career progression in academic research or the biotech industry. Many research assistants go on to pursue PhDs or advance to more senior research roles.

This Research Assistant position at the University of Cambridge offers an exceptional opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research in neurobiology and metabolic science. As part of Dr Clémence Blouet’s team at the Institute of Metabolic Science, you’ll be investigating the fascinating connections between brain nutrient sensing, appetite, metabolism, and body weight regulation.

Your role will involve a diverse range of responsibilities, from conducting histological analyses and operating advanced microscopy equipment to contributing to mouse model studies. This hands-on experience with state-of-the-art research techniques will be invaluable for your career development in the biomedical sciences.

The University of Cambridge provides a stimulating and collaborative research environment, where you’ll have the chance to work alongside and learn from leading experts in the field. This position is ideal for recent graduates or early-career scientists looking to gain practical research experience and build a strong foundation for a career in academia or industry.

While the work is challenging, it’s also deeply rewarding. Your contributions will help advance our understanding of fundamental biological processes, potentially leading to new insights that could impact future treatments for metabolic disorders.

If you’re passionate about neurobiology, have a strong academic background, and are eager to develop your research skills in a world-class institution, we encourage you to apply. Join us at the forefront of metabolic science research and take the next step in your scientific career at the University of Cambridge.

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