Research Assistant - Chemical Biology (Fixed Term)

Research Assistant - Chemical Biology (Fixed Term)

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 3 years in the first instance.

Applications are invited for a Research Assistant position in chemical biology in the Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge.

The research will be conducted in the group of Dr. Julian Willis and will focus on the study and characterisation of viruses using protein-primed DNA replication. The work will involve the discovery and sequencing of new viruses, followed by extensive protein characterisation studies - both in cells and using in vitro biochemical analysis. The role will also include optimisation using protein engineering to enhance protein properties and performance.

Applicants should have (or be about to obtain) an undergraduate degree or masters in molecular biology, bioengineering or a related field, with a strong background in synthetic biology, microbial biology, biochemistry, and molecular cloning. Prior research experience in protein engineering and protein characterisation would be highly desirable. As this is an interdisciplinary project, candidates must be able to work effectively as part of a team and possess excellent communication skills.

Please ensure that you upload your Curriculum Vitae (CV), a covering letter and publications list (if applicable) in the upload section of the online application. If you upload any additional documents that have not been requested, we will not be able to consider these as part of your application.

The Department holds an Athena SWAN silver award for women in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Medicine.

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

• Department/Location: Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry


• Salary: £32,546-£35,116


• Reference: MA46283


• Category: Research


• Published: 11 June 2025


• Closing date: 25 June 2025

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Applicants should have (or be about to obtain) an undergraduate degree or masters in molecular biology, bioengineering or a related field, with a strong background in synthetic biology, microbial biology, biochemistry, and molecular cloning. Prior research experience in protein engineering and protein characterisation would be highly desirable. As this is an interdisciplinary project, candidates must be able to work effectively as part of a team and possess excellent communication skills.

The research will be conducted in the group of Dr. Julian Willis (https://www.ch.cam.ac.uk/person/jcww2) and will focus on the study and characterisation of viruses using protein-primed DNA replication. The work will involve the discovery and sequencing of new viruses, followed by extensive protein characterisation studies - both in cells and using in vitro biochemical analysis. The role will also include optimisation using protein engineering to enhance protein properties and performance.