Job Description

The Department of Genetics is seeking a Research Laboratory Technician for a fixed-term position to work on a collaborative project in the Department of Plant Sciences. The role involves performing molecular biology techniques and supporting a project on the translation of ancient genetic variation in crop plants. Candidates should have previous laboratory experience with a relevant degree preferred. The position requires teamwork and is based in central Cambridge, with funding available until 30 September 2026 in the first instance.


The successful candidate will join the research group of Dr Yucheng Wang and support a project funded by the Ancient Environmental Genomics Initiative for Sustainability (AEGIS) consortium. The work forms part of an international collaborative effort involving academic laboratories in Denmark and the United States.


The postholder will support and perform a range of routine and advanced molecular biology techniques, working closely with a postdoctoral researcher and as part of a wider laboratory team. The primary model organism for the project is rice (Oryza sativa), with plants carrying reintroduced genetic variants already generated. Some experimental work on barley is also anticipated.


Key responsibilities include:


Cloning (PCR, bacterial transformation and culture, plasmid purification, and Sanger sequencing) Gene expression analysis (RNA extraction, cDNA synthesis, qPCR) Genotyping (collecting material, genomic DNA extraction, PCR, and gel electrophoresis) Confocal and light microscopy General plant husbandry and maintenance

The successful applicant is not expected to have experience in all of the techniques listed above. However, prior laboratory experience and a strong willingness to learn are essential. Experience working with plants is highly desirable.


Applicants should demonstrate:


A qualification equitable to HND/HNC, level 4/5 vocational qualification (undergraduate degree preferred) Prior relevant laboratory experience Strong organisational and time-management skills A positive, proactive attitude and good team spirit Evidence of effective teamwork in achieving clearly defined project goals

This role offers an excellent opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a dynamic research environment and to contribute to an innovative, internationally collaborative project at the forefront of plant genomics.


Applications are welcome from internal candidates who would like to apply for the role on the basis of a secondment from their current role in the University.



For informal enquiries about the role please contact Dr Yucheng Wang yw502@cam.ac.uk


Please quote reference PC48465 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

31,236-35,608

Reference

PC48465

Category

Assistant staff

Date published

8 January 2026

Closing date

21 January 2026