Research Associate – Chemical Biologist (Fixed Term)
Applications are invited for a fixed-term Research Associate position in Chemical Biology within the Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry at the University of Cambridge. The post is funded for an initial period of two years and is part of a Cancer Research UK-supported research programme led by Professor Sir Shankar Balasubramanian.
The research focuses on the chemical biology of nucleic acids, with particular emphasis on the structure and biological function of four-stranded DNA G-quadruplexes. These non-canonical DNA structures are being investigated for their role in genomic regulation and their potential as therapeutic targets in cancer.
The successful candidate will contribute to an interdisciplinary research programme aimed at elucidating molecular mechanisms underlying G-quadruplex formation and function, as well as exploring their interactions with small molecules and proteins. The work is strongly translational in nature, linking fundamental chemical biology with cancer research applications.
The position is embedded in a highly collaborative and internationally recognised research environment within the Department of Chemistry, with close integration into broader nucleic acid chemistry and cancer biology research networks.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants should hold (or be close to obtaining) a PhD in Chemical Biology or a closely related discipline.
Candidates are expected to demonstrate:
* Strong background in chemical biology with a focus on nucleic acids
* Experience or strong interest in DNA/RNA structural biology, particularly G-quadruplexes
* Ability to work in interdisciplinary research environments
* Strong motivation for experimental and translational research in cancer-related molecular biology
* Good communication skills and ability to contribute to collaborative research projects
* Evidence of creativity, independence, and problem-solving ability in research
Required Expertise/Skills
Essential skills and experience include:
* Background in nucleic acid chemistry, molecular biology, or chemical biology
* Experience in biochemistry and/or molecular biology laboratory techniques
* Understanding of nucleic acid–protein interactions and structural biology concepts
* Ability to design, conduct, and analyse experimental research independently
* Strong scientific writing skills for publications and research dissemination
* Experience in small molecule design or synthesis targeting nucleic acids
* Familiarity with biophysical or structural methods used in nucleic acid research
* Prior exposure to cancer biology or translational biomedical research
* Experience working in multidisciplinary research teams
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