The Babraham Institute
Research Assistant (Signalling)
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We are seeking an enthusiastic Research Assistant with some experience with mammalian cell culture techniques to join the Samant Lab in the Signalling Programme at Babraham Institute, Cambridge. The research in the lab focuses on two key hallmarks of human ageing—loss of proteostasis, and accumulation of cellular senescence—and this project directly tackles the relationship between these two in the context of tissue function and degeneration with age.
For more information on the work of the group, please visit: https://www.babraham.ac.uk/our-research/signalling/rahul-samant and https://samantlab.github.io/.
Role and Responsibilities
The successful candidate will receive hands-on training in isolation and culture of different primary human cells from patient lung tissues, and in differentiation of these cells into 2D and 3D tissue-like structures (e.g., organoids and air-liquid interfaces). The candidate will then perform functional assays of proteostasis, senescence, and ageing-related dysfunction in these complex structures.
This position is suited for a candidate with an interest in the fundamental biology of ageing, and is looking to learn and help further develop cutting-edge human models of ageing and senescence. The ideal candidate will have a BSc or MSc in the biological sciences, with experience in basic molecular/cell biology and mammalian cell culture. They will also have excellent organisation, as this post requires co-ordination with the local hospital tissue bank to obtain time-sensitive patient material, as well as timely sample processing and maintenance.
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Training and Development
All necessary training for success of the project will be offered by experts at Babraham Institute and University of Cambridge. The post-holder will also have opportunities to develop further their molecular and cell biology skills (e.g., CRISPR editing; super-resolution microscopy), according to their career development goals. For example, all former pre-doctoral researchers in the Samant Lab have directly gone on to PhD programmes; therefore, this position could be especially appropriate for applicants looking to upskill and gain experience in a full-time research environment prior to doctoral training.
Position Details
This is a limited-term appointment with funding for this post expected to be available for a period of 1.5 years.
Application Information
A full job specification and role requirements can be found attached to this vacancy.
Informal enquiries can be addressed to Rahul Samant (rahul.samant@babraham.ac.uk).
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About the Institute
The Institute has joined the Technician Commitment initiative, which is a commitment to support the recognition, visibility, sustainability and career development of our research support community, which includes the BSU, Scientific Facilities, Computing, Stores & Purchasing, Technical Services, Health & Safety and the Research Assistant communities.
The Babraham Institute welcomes applications from all sections of society.
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The Babraham Institute holds a silver Athena SWAN award and is committed to promoting and developing a culture of excellence, diversity and mutual respect that supports the Institute’s ambitions and attracts highly motivated and talented people. The Babraham Institute abides by the principles of the government’s Disability Confident Scheme and has a positive approach to employing disabled people.
Department
Signalling
Contract type
Fixed Term Contract
Hours
37
Salary
From £31,394 to £33,227 per annum (based on experience)
Benefits
Competitive
Closing Date
Closing date for applications is Friday, 31st July 2026 at 12pm. However, we reserve the right to close the vacancy early depending on the volume of applications received.
Reference
REF-229852
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