Job Description

A Postdoctoral Research Associate position is currently available for a highly talented and motivated individual to work in the laboratory of Prof. Anna Philpott within the Cambridge Stem Cell Institute ( ). The Philpott lab has broad interests in understanding the fundamental mechanisms that determine cell fate choice and differentiation during embryonic development and in cancers, as well as how these processes are coordinated with cell cycle progression.

We are looking for a post-doctoral scientist to join our collaborative research team investigating transcriptional regulation of lineage fidelity during fate specification and differentiation. Within the laboratory, we use several experimental systems including embryos of the frog Xenopus laevis, as well as mammalian embryonic stem and cancer cell culture. Ongoing projects use Xenopus embryos as a highly versatile model system to uncover epigenetic and co-factor-dependent mechanisms underlying the cellular response to transcription factor reprogramming. We use many techniques including genome-wide analysis of gene expression in single and multiple cells, chromatin binding and accessibility studies, CRISPR genome editing as well as classical embryology and biochemistry. The role holder may take part in our collaboration with Prof. Allon Klein (Harvard Medical School).

The successful candidate will have a PhD and be experienced in using molecular biology and genome-wide approaches to probe transcriptional activity. While experience in the use of Xenopus as a model system would be desirable, full training can be provided and an enthusiasm to embrace this model alongside use of cultured cell systems is essential. Evidence of experience in developmental biology, neurobiology, reprogramming or a similar field, and a proven track record in scientific publication are also essential. Experience of bioinformatic analysis of genome-wide, and ideally single cell, data would be highly desirable although we will provide excellent infrastructure and bioinformatic support. Applicants must display an ability to undertake project management, work within a multi-disciplinary team environment, have excellent presentation and communication skills and the ability to contribute to an environment supporting researchers at all stages of their careers.

Our group is housed in the Wellcome-MRC Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, a world-leading centre for stem cell research with the mission to transform human health through a deep understanding of stem cell biology ( ).

Please contact Prof. Anna Philpott ( ) with any informal enquiries.

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available until 31 March 2026 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.

To apply online for this vacancy and to view further information about the role, please click on the apply button above.

Please ensure that you upload a covering letter and a CV in the Upload section of the online application. The covering letter should outline how you match the criteria for the post and why you are applying for this role. If you upload any additional documents which have not been requested, we will not be able to consider these as part of your application.

Please include details of your referees, including email address and phone number, one of which must be your most recent line manager.

The closing date for applications is: 4th September 2023

The interview date for the role is: To be confirmed

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

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