University of Cambridge
Research Associate (Fixed Term)
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About the Role
We seek a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Associate to join the laboratory of Professor Kathy Niakan. We are based in the Loke Centre for Trophoblast Research (LCTR), in the Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience.
Responsibilities
A successful candidate will help to develop pioneering research projects to provide fundamental insights into human biology and inform novel strategies for stem cell biology and post-implantation development of human embryos.
The aims of research projects in the lab are to characterise early lineage specification in human pre- and early post-implantation embryos. We seek to explore a range of methods to establish robust and reproducible cutting-edge single cell molecular analysis, imaging, functional genomics techniques and stem cell models to understand early lineage specification mechanisms in human embryos.
Our laboratory aims to utilise the knowledge gained from these studies to provide fundamental insights into human biology. We also aim to use this knowledge to facilitate the development of robust and reproducible implantation models, novel human stem cells and stem cell-based models of human development. We perform comparative analysis of human embryogenesis to several other mammalian species, pluripotent stem cells and integrated stem cell models of human embryos.
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Requirements
The successful candidate will be energetic, focused, and productive with a desire to work in a congenial, dynamic, and collaborative research environment. Excellent organizational, analytical, and communication skills are essential.
Candidates should hold a PhD in a relevant subject. Please refer to the person specification for a full list of essential skills and qualifications.
Diversity and Inclusion
The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society. The Department of Physiology, Development & Neuroscience particularly encourages women and candidates from a Black, Asian or Minority Ethnic background to apply for this vacancy.
Visa and Immigration
We will support visa application if assistance is needed. We have a legal responsibility to ensure that you have the right to work in the UK before you can start working for us. Any job application you submit to us will be assessed using criteria based on the knowledge, skills and experience required for the relevant post. You will not be treated less favourably than another applicant on the grounds of national origin. However, any offer of employment we make to you will be conditional upon you gaining permission to work in the UK. For further information: http://www.jobs.cam.ac.uk/right/have/
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Additional Information
To find out more about the lab visit our website at: https://niakanlab.com/ To find out more about the LCTR please visit our website at: https://www.trophoblast.cam.ac.uk/
Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 3 years in the first instance.
Once an offer of employment has been accepted, the successful candidate will be required to undergo a basic disclosure (criminal records check) check and a security check.
Application Process
Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.
To apply for this post, please submit a CV and a motivation letter detailing why you want to be part of this project and how this post will be a good stepping-stone for your career. We also need the contact details for two people who can provide a professional reference.
Closing date: midnight on 13th September 2026.
Please quote reference PM50266 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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