Job Description

Europe's top cancer charity, Cancer Research UK, has combined with the University of Cambridge to fund the world class Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, situated on Addenbrooke's Biomedical Campus in Cambridge.


As part of the University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, the Institute's research ranges from basic cancer biology through translational cancer research to clinical application. The Institute currently houses over 400 researchers and support staff with over 20 research groups and associated core facilities in a state-of-the-art research facility.


The

Cambridge Institute Proteomics Facility (CIPF)

provides researchers across the Institute and the wider University of Cambridge with access to advanced proteomics expertise and infrastructure for the identification and quantification of proteins from complex biological samples.


We are recruiting a

Research Assistant

to join the Proteomics Facility team and contribute to the delivery of high-quality mass spectrometry-based proteomics support. Working alongside experienced facility staff and under the guidance of the Head of the Proteomics Facility, the successful candidate will support established proteomics workflows and the day-to-day operation of the facility.


We are seeking to appoint the successful candidate

on a part-time basis

, preferably to work between 3-4 days per week (22-30 hours). But applicants will also have the opportunity to discuss their desired working hours in more detail at interview stage.

The role

With appropriate training, the post holder will contribute to routine technical activities within the Proteomics Facility, including:


Supporting the operation and routine upkeep of mass spectrometry laboratory infrastructure, including Thermo Scientific Orbitrap mass spectrometers (e.g. Fusion Lumos, Ascend and Astral Zoom) and associated nanoLC systems.

Assisting with proteomics sample preparation for mass spectrometry analysis in accordance with established standard operating procedures.

Supporting data handling activities, including organisation, documentation, secure storage, and archiving of mass spectrometry datasets in line with institutional and funder requirements.

Maintaining accurate records of sample tracking, experimental metadata, instrument usage, and consumables.

Assisting with general laboratory organisation and management tasks, including monitoring -80 AC freezer storage and coordinating procurement of consumables and reagents in accordance with University procedures.

Communicating effectively with facility staff and research users to support efficient use of proteomics workflows and infrastructure.

The role offers exposure to a wide range of proteomics techniques and cutting-edge mass spectrometry platforms within a collaborative, service-oriented research environment. The post holder will be encouraged to undertake relevant training and professional development to support career progression in proteomics.

About you

You will have

practical experience working in a laboratory environment

, ideally within proteomics, protein chemistry, analytical science, or a related technical setting. Familiarity with proteomics sample preparation techniques, biological mass spectrometry, and LC-MS workflows is desirable, but candidates with strong transferable laboratory skills and a willingness to learn are strongly encouraged to apply.


You will be highly organised, computer literate, and able to manage multiple tasks effectively. Strong communication and interpersonal skills are essential, along with the ability to work both independently and as part of a team. Experience using proteomics data analysis software (e.g. Proteome Discoverer, MaxQuant, Skyline) or familiarity with data analysis tools such as R or similar platforms would be advantageous but is not essential.



Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 2 years in the first instance.


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 have any queries regarding the application process, please contact: mailbox-hr@cruk.cam.ac.uk.


Please quote reference SW48397 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.



Key information

Department/location

Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute

Salary

33,002-35,608

Reference

SW48397

Category

Research

Date published

22 December 2025

Closing date

19 January 2026