Research Assistant (Fixed Term, Part-time)

Cambridge; Cambridge; On-site; GBP 33,000 - 36,000; Part time

Job summary

A prestigious educational institution in Cambridge is seeking a part-time Research Assistant for a project studying neuropathogenesis and neurotropism of neurotropic flaviviruses. The successful candidate will analyze host-pathogen interactions and investigate potential antiviral therapies. Required qualifications include experience in tissue culture, virology, and related fields, along with a degree in Virology or a related discipline. The position offers the chance to contribute to cutting-edge research and is funded by the Wellcome Trust.

Qualifications

• Experience with tissue culture and virology is essential.
• Knowledge of molecular biology and biochemistry is required.
• Prior experience in flavivirus research and immunology is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Study stress responses in human brain models.
• Analyze host-pathogen interactions.
• Research antiviral therapies related to cellular stressors.

Skills

Tissue culture

Virology

Molecular biology

Biochemistry

Fluorescence microscopy

Education

First or Master's degree in Virology or related topic

Job description

# Research Assistant (Fixed Term, Part-time)Fixed-term: The post is available for three years in the first instance starting 01 April 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter and subject to a 6-month probationary period.Applicants are invited to apply for a part-time Research Assistant position in the group of Dr Nerea Irigoyen in the Department of Pathology (University of Cambridge) on a Wellcome Trust-funded project to study neuropathogenesis and neurotropism of neurotropic flaviviruses, such as Zika virus and Usutu virus.This project will specifically focus on studying stress responses (e.g., unfolded protein response) upon infection. The candidate will analyse these host-pathogen interactions in a series of tractable models of the human brain, including cerebral organoids. This project will also analyse the roles of various small molecules that can act as inhibitors of cellular stressors as potential antiviral therapies.We are looking for individuals with experience in tissue culture, virology, molecular biology, biochemistry and fluorescence microscopy. It would be desirable to have prior experience in flavivirus research and immunology (e.g., innate immune responses).The candidate should have (or be close to obtaining) a First or Master's degree in Virology or a related topic.Once an offer of employment has been accepted, the successful candidate will be required to undergo a health assessment.Informal enquiries and requests for further information are very welcome and should be addressed to Dr Nerea Irigoyen at [e-mail] particularly welcome applications from women and /or candidates from a BME background for this vacancy as they are currently under-represented at this level in our Department.Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.Informal enquiries and requests for further information are very welcome and should be addressed to Dr Nerea Irigoyen at [e-mail] enquiries on the application process, please contact the HR team at [e-mail] quote reference PK48414 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.### Department/location### Salary£33,002-£35,608 pro rata### ReferencePK48414### Category### Date published23 December 2025### Closing date11 January 2026