Applications are invited for a Research Associate (fixed term) to join the dynamic multi-disciplinary laboratory of Dr Nerea Irigoyen in understanding the regulation of Zika virus genome translation.

The successful candidate will join a project that investigates the molecular mechanisms underlying the differences in virulence and pathogenicity between the African (non-pathogenic) and the American (pathogenic) Zika strains. This will aid in the design of new therapeutics and vaccines, and help to alleviate the severe social Zika-associated problems in future outbreaks. The laboratory employs a wide range of techniques, from ribosome profiling and RNA-Seq to virus infection of relevant organoids.

Applicants should have a PhD in Molecular Biology, Virology/Immunology, Biochemistry or a closely related field. Prior experience in techniques for molecular virology of arboviruses, viral translational control, protein-protein and protein-RNA interactions, is an advantage. The ability to work both independently and as part of a team, coupled with excellent communication, organizational and problem solving skills, and an enthusiasm for scientific research, are required.

The duties/responsibilities of this post include developing and driving research objectives, writing up work for presentation and publication, assisting in the supervision of student research projects, and delivering seminars as outlined on the Further Information Documents. If you have an excellent background in biomedical sciences, have a track record of publishing at an internationally-competitive level, are prepared to face intellectual challenges and wish to develop your scientific skills, we want to hear from you.

The post will be held at the Division of Virology, part of the Department of Pathology within the University of Cambridge. The Division of Virology is located on the Cambridge Biomedical Campus, one of the world’s most vibrant centres of biomedical research and home to multiple University of Cambridge departments, two major hospitals, the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, and the world headquarters of Astra Zeneca. This project benefits from strong established collaborations across the University and beyond.

For further details or informal enquires please contact Nerea Irigoyen via email (ni236@cam.ac.uk). Any enquiries relating to the application process please contact Jodi Smith – hr@path.cam.ac.uk