MRC Medical Research Council jobs

The Medical Research Council Mitochondrial Biology Unit (MRC MBU), University of Cambridge wishes to appoint a post-doctoral Research Associate to join the research group of Prof. Michal Minczuk at the MRC Mitochondrial Biology Unit. A world-renowned centre for research, the MRC MBU is a vibrant community focused on the involvement of mitochondria and their dysfunction in an ever-increasing range of human diseases. Additional information can be found at www.mrc-mbu.cam.ac.uk

The postholder will contribute to the Programmable mitochondria: development and validation of genetic transformation (ProMiT) multicentre project, funded through the ARIA Precision Mitochondria initiative, aimed at developing and rigorously testing new technologies for the delivery and functional use of genetic material in mitochondria. The role will support a shared experimental platform spanning complementary DNA- and RNA-focused approaches, using standardised cellular and biochemical systems and quantitative readouts.

Working at the interface of mitochondrial biology, RNA biology, genome engineering and biochemistry, the successful candidate will establish mammalian cell models and mitochondrial preparations and develop assays for mitochondrial localisation and import, sub-mitochondrial distribution, membrane integrity and function. Approaches will include molecular biology, bioenergetics biochemical fractionation, sequencing, and single-cell approaches. The postholder will also contribute to mechanistic studies of mitochondrial RNA import in Protists, including development of robust in vitro assays. The role will also integrate molecular and functional datasets to support programme milestones and work closely with collaborators across the ARIA Precision Mitochondria programme.

Candidates should hold, or be close to obtaining, a PhD in a relevant biological discipline and have strong experience in mitochondrial, cell, RNA or molecular biology, biochemistry, genetics or a related area. Experience in mammalian cell culture and genome engineering is important. Experience in mitochondrial isolation/fractionation, protease-protection assays, bioenergetics, sequencing or single-cell methods, flow cytometry, RNA biology or quantitative analysis would be highly advantageous.

Informal enquiries about this position should be directed to Professor Michal Minczuk (mam201@cam.ac.uk).

This is a fixed-term position for 36 months from the date of appointment, with the possibility of extension subject to programme progress and funding availability.

The University of Cambridge is committed, in its pursuit of academic and research excellence, to a pro-active and inclusive approach to equality, which supports and encourages all under-represented groups, promotes an inclusive culture, and values diversity.

The MBU is part of the School of Clinical Medicine, which holds an Athena Swan Silver Award and supports an Academic Women's Forum. The University particularly encourages women and candidates from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic backgrounds to apply.

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) moving to Research Associate (Grade 7) upon confirmation of your PhD award.

Please ensure that you upload a covering letter and 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.

Closing Date: 16th September 2026

Interview Date: 24th-25th September 2026

Please quote reference SM50861 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.