Job Description

The Pathogen Dynamics Unit, located within the Department of Genetics in central Cambridge, is looking to recruit a part-time Research Coordinator to join our growing team of researchers carrying out wet lab and mathematical, computational and field research in the area of infectious disease dynamics. While the position is advertised as a 50% position, a 40% role may also be possible.


The Pathogen Dynamics Unit brings together the research groups of Professor Kate Baker, Dr Charlotte Houldcroft and Professor Henrik Salje and uses mathematical, computational, field and laboratory research to help our understanding of how pathogens spread in populations; assessing control efforts and supporting public policy development. The Unit works closely with an established network of collaborators and field-based epidemiologists working across laboratories, hospitals, and public health agencies.


This is a busy and varied role supporting the coordination of research staff and activities across domestic and international projects related to dengue, COVID-19, shigellosis and other infectious diseases. Suitable candidates should be proactive, highly organised individuals able to manage competing priorities under minimal supervision. Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, are required for communicating with staff and students at all levels as well as external collaborators. Experience of coordination and/or conduct of wet lab experiments would also be an advantage.


Key Responsibilities:


Develop and maintain efficient systems and processes for PDU. Develop and oversee the maintenance of databases, external websites and social media, assist with the dissemination of research and collate and analyse research data for reports. Potentially contribute to literature reviews. Preparation of applications from researchers wanting to engage in the research programme(s). Ensure that all grant paperwork is in place, inform researchers of the application process, collate returned applications, co-ordinate the research committee processes and documentation. Provide technical and administrative support for proposal writing/ grant applications. Review documentation, work with research grant administrator to ensure grant applications are submitted in time, research and advise on funder/ sponsor requirements, advise academics on application documents required, liaise with departmental grant administrator and grant administrators of other university departments or other universities where multi bidding is applicable, prepare progress reports for funding body. Provide small amounts of personal administration to principal investigators including collating financial summaries, lodging expense claims and coordinating travel plans, as well as organising meetings for major projects (liaising with the broader administrative teams in the department). Support administrative aspects of laboratory activities including ordering and receipt of equipment and consumables and curation of safety materials.

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 12 months in the first instance.



For informal enquiries about the role please contact Professor Henrik Salje, hs743@cam.ac.uk


Please quote reference PC48506 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

Department of Genetics

Salary

16,975 to 19,953 per annum (Grade 6)

Reference

PC48506

Category

Assistant staff

Date published

14 January 2026

Closing date

8 February 2026