. What is the difference between a Research Assistant and a Research Associate?

A Research Assistant typically supports research projects under the supervision of senior researchers and is often in an early stage of their academic or research career. A Research Associate usually has more experience, may lead parts of the research, and often holds a higher degree such as a PhD.

What qualifications are required for these roles?

Research Assistant roles often require a bachelor's or master's degree in a relevant field, while Research Associate positions usually require a master's degree or PhD, along with relevant research experience.

What are the key responsibilities of a Research Assistant/Associate?

Responsibilities include conducting literature reviews, collecting and analyzing data, preparing reports and presentations, assisting in writing research papers, and collaborating with the research team on various tasks.

Where do Research Assistants/Associates typically work?

They work in universities, research institutions, hospitals, government agencies, or private companies involved in research and development.

Is there room for career growth in these roles?

Yes, Research Assistants can advance to Research Associate positions or pursue further academic qualifications like a PhD. Research Associates can progress to senior research roles, become principal investigators, or transition into academic positions.

Research Assistant/Research Associate (Fixed Term)

Location:	Cambridge
Salary:	£31,396 to £44,263 per annum
Hours:	Full Time
Contract Type:	Fixed-Term/Contract

Placed On:	14th October 2024
Closes:	3rd November 2024

The Sawarkar Lab at the MRC Toxicology Unit invites applications for a Research Associate (Postdoctoral Fellow) to contribute to an exciting research program on Epigenetics, tRNA transcription, and Neurodegeneration. This project leverages cutting-edge genomic technologies to uncover the epigenetic factors responsible for protein misfolding in neurons, a key mechanism in neurodegenerative diseases.

Key Responsibilities:

You will be involved in using single-cell technologies with in vivo mouse models and embryonic stem cell differentiation models to study neurodegeneration. The primary aim is to explore how tRNAs contribute to protein misfolding, particularly during aging. Your role will involve supporting ongoing research while leading your own projects, and pushing the boundaries of molecular bioscience.

Key Publications:

For more information on the research scope, see recent work by Leone et al (2024) Mol Cell and Mulroney et al (2024) Nature.

About You:

Candidates should hold, or be close to completing, a PhD in molecular cell biology, chromatin biology, or transcription biology. Essential skills include experience in molecular cell biology labs, including RNA work, mammalian cell culture, cloning, and protein analysis. You should be able to work both independently and collaboratively, possess strong communication and organizational skills, and be dedicated to publishing high-quality research.

About the MRC Toxicology Unit:

The MRC Toxicology Unit is internationally recognized for delivering transformative insights into toxicology and disease mechanisms. The Unit offers state-of-the-art facilities, including mass spectrometry, microscopy, and bioinformatics, and provides outstanding opportunities for scientific career development.

Additional Information:

Position Type: Fixed-term, with funding available until 31st August 2026.
Appointment Level: Research Associate (with a PhD). If a PhD has not been awarded or submitted, the initial appointment will be as a Research Assistant, transitioning to Research Associate upon PhD completion.

How to Apply:

To apply online and view further details about this role, please click the "apply" button above. For queries about the application process, contact hradmin@mrc-tox.cam.ac.uk.

Visit our website for more information: https://www.mrc-tox.cam.ac.uk

Please quote reference PU43617 in all communications related to this vacancy.

The University is committed to promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion and welcomes applications from all sections of society. We also ensure all employees are eligible to work in the UK.

FAQ

Research Assistant/Research Associate (Fixed Term)