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University of Cambridge

Research Associate (Fixed Term)

Cambridge
Posted 1 day ago
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Applications Invited for Post-Doctoral Research Associate

Applications are invited for a highly motivated post-doctoral research associate to join Prof Uta Paszkowski's group at the Crop Science Centre, starting on 1st October 2026.

About the Role

The successful candidate will be joining a vibrant and friendly group of researchers in the Crop Science Centre at the University of Cambridge.

About the Crop Science Centre

The Crop Science Centre, which opened in October 2020, benefits from the diverse skills and expertise of the University of Cambridge and NIAB, providing an environment for research excellence in crops, with the drive and expertise for scientific translation to address real-world problems.

Project Overview

CRISPR/Cas gene editing is a pioneering technology for precision crop improvement. However, its application in many crops remains constrained by the reliance on genetic transformation, a labour-intensive and technically challenging process. Virus-induced gene editing (VIGE), in which components of the gene-editing machinery are delivered via viral vectors, offers a promising alternative that could significantly broaden the applicability of gene editing in crops.

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Also worth knowing: most autumn 2026 applications are open now. Timing matters more than you think.

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Graduate Consultant — 2026 Scheme

PwC·London, UK
£35,000/yr

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Your economics background and your summer at a regional bank line up with what PwC looks for on the consulting scheme. Applications close in four weeks.

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You’ve got the grades and the economics background, and your bank internship is exactly the experience this scheme looks for. Apply soon — deadlines close within the month.

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This project aims to establish VIGE in the underutilised African legume Bambara groundnut, with the overarching goal of accelerating genetic improvement of this crop for use in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Requirements

  • Strong background in plant virology, plant genetics, and molecular biology
  • Prior experience with virus-induced gene editing is essential
  • Experience in basic bioinformatics would be advantageous

Appointment Details

  • Appointment at Research Associate level is dependent on having a PhD.
  • Those who have submitted but not yet received their PhD will be appointed at Research Assistant level, which will be amended to Research Associate once the PhD has been awarded.

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Application Process

We welcome a diversity of applicants with a good track record in research and/or impact, who are excited to join a dynamic team of scientists.

Fixed-term

The funds for this post are available for 18 months.

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

Important Dates

If you have not received any response 1 month after the closing date, you should consider your application to be unsuccessful.

Application Instructions

  • Please quote reference PD50850 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion

The University actively supports equality, diversity, and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

Eligibility

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.

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Skills

Plant Virology
Plant Genetics
Molecular Biology
Virus-Induced Gene Editing
Bioinformatics
CRISPR/Cas Gene Editing
Genetic Transformation
Crop Improvement

Location

Cambridge, England, United Kingdom

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