We are looking for a talented and motivated postdoctoral scientist to join the lab of Professor Sir Steve Jackson ( https://www.stevejacksonlab.org/ ), based in the internationally renowned Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute https://www.cruk.cam.ac.uk/, located on the Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, UK. Radiotherapy is a mainstay of cancer treatment, but we still do not understand completely why some patients respond well and others do not. Further research is needed to understand the biology of radiosensitivity/resistance and exploit this knowledge to improve patient outcomes. This CRUK RadNet Cambridge-funded project will explore the cell biology of radiation-induced DNA damage to exploit/counteract radioresistance. The postholder will: Design and conduct high-throughput CRISPR screens in human tissue culture cells to explore sensitivity/resistance mechanisms to ionising radiation (IR). From these studies, establish how defects and deregulation of certain DNA damage response (DDR) and other cellular processes affect sensitivity and resistance to IR; and identify the potential clinical relevance of these effects in cancer. Generate multiple gene knockout and endogenous-degron tagged cell lines that target these resistance and sensitivity processes. Carry out follow-up validation and ensuing mechanistic studies - including further high-throughput CRISPR screens - to fully characterise these novel genetic and functional relationships. The work will be multi-disciplinary, combining recently established genome engineering and genetic screening approaches in human cells with next-generation sequencing, bioinformatics, cell biology, molecular biology and biochemistry. Essential criteria Candidates are expected to be largely independent and highly motivated and must have a PhD in biological sciences or be close to completing their postgraduate degree. Candidates should have strong experience in mammalian cell biology. A background in DNA damage/repair as well as an understanding of CRISPR-Cas9 technology are desirable. While the project will benefit from access to expert bioinformaticians within the group, some knowledge of bioinformatics is also desirable. Applicants should have excellent written and spoken English communication skills and demonstrate excellent organisation. You will play a key role in a large, vibrant and interactive research group, so a collaborative, friendly and collegial attitude is essential. The position offers a competitive salary, and the successful candidate will enjoy the diverse, vibrant and highly supportive research environment of the CRUK Cambridge Institute and the University of Cambridge. Please send applications in the following format: a CV; the names and contact details of two or three referees; and a one to two-page cover letter explaining why you wish to be considered for the post, what you will bring to the project and listing your laboratory experience to date. Please do not send academic certificates at this stage. Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 3 years in the first instance. The closing date for applications is Tuesday 5th November 2024, with interviews expected to take place shortly after this date. Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online. The successful candidate must have (or be about to receive) a PhD and will be appointed as a grade 7 (£36,024 - £44,263 dependent on experience). Appointment at Research Associate level is dependent on having a PhD. Those who have submitted but not yet received their PhD will initially be appointed as a Research Assistant (Grade 5, Point 38 £32,982) moving to Research Associate (Grade 7) upon confirmation of your PhD award along with backpay for the time spent at Grade 5. If you have any queries regarding the application process or queries relating to this vacancy, please contact: mailbox-hrcruk.cam.ac.uk. Please quote reference SW43597 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy. Once an offer of employment has been accepted, the successful candidate will be required to undergo a basic disclosure (criminal records check) check and a security check. 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. Further information Further Particulars Apply online