University of Cambridge
Research Assistant (Fixed Term)

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Applications are invited from enthusiastic, motivated, and experienced Research Associates to join the Cambridge Stem Cell Institute to work in the Sinha group. This post is funded for 16 months.
Role Description
The successful candidate will support the smooth running of tissue culture activities and carry out research studies on animals as part of wider research activities. Duties will include:
- Performing experimental procedures
- Tissue culture of pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiovascular cells such as vascular smooth muscle cells, for 2D line generations or production of 3D engineered vascular constructs
- Other bioengineering techniques
Molecular techniques required include:
- RNA extraction and qRT-PCR
- Flow cytometry
- Confocal microscopy
- Immunohistochemistry
Standard laboratory management practices such as stock maintenance, planning, and record keeping will also be required. Data analysis, including via the use of R, may also be conducted. Additional techniques will include protein isolation and quantification from cells and human tissue to perform Western Blot and immunoprecipitation.
There is also an opportunity to conduct experimentation alone or in collaboration for individual and/or collaborative research projects, including helping with the planning and design of experiments, and collection and analysis of data. They will also assist with housekeeping and safety in the research laboratories and liaise regularly with their line managers, PI, and other lab members.
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Candidate Profile
The ideal candidate will have a BSc, or higher, in a biological subject, together with experience in areas of relevance to the research group. Excellent organizational skills and the ability to work as part of a team, as well as independently, are also essential, along with a high degree of precision and accuracy and communication skills.
About the Cambridge Stem Cell Institute
The Cambridge Stem Cell Institute is the largest Stem Cell Institute in Europe and a world-leading center for stem cell research and regenerative medicine. Scientists collaborate to advance our knowledge of stem cell biology and tissue repair and to perform pioneering work in translational research areas, providing the foundation for new medical treatments including those for the damaged heart. The institute boasts a large number of core facilities, including an imaging, flow cytometry, and histology facility.
Job Details
- Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 16 months in the first instance.


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Application Process
Informal enquiries should be directed to Professor Sanjay Sinha (SS661@cam.ac.uk).
Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.
Please ensure that you upload a covering letter and a 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.
Please include details of your referees, including email address and phone number, one of which must be your most recent line manager.
The closing date for applications is Thursday 13 August 2026.
The interview date for the role is to be confirmed.
Please quote reference PS50649 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.
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