Research Associate (Fixed Term)

We are inviting applications for a Postdoctoral Scientist to join the Röper lab at the Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience at the University of Cambridge. We investigate the mechanisms and mechanics of organ formation during development, by studying two complementary model systems of tube morphogenesis, the formation of the salivary glands in the Drosophila embryo and the formation of the nephron tube in human renal organoids in culture. We are looking for skilled and enthusiastic individuals with expertise in in renal biology in both model systems, human renal organoids and the Drosophila renal system.

You will contribute to a project investigating the role of the nucleus and its linkage to the intracellular cytoskeleton, focussing on the LINC complex and interactors in both human renal organoids during tube morphogenesis and also in Drosophila in the Malpighian tubules and nephrocytes that make up the fly's renal system.

You will conduct this work, using a combination of advanced imaging, quantitative and genetics approaches, as part of a team of researchers that tackle related questions across our two models.

Candidates should have or be about to receive a PhD in Cell Biology or Developmental Biology. You should have extensive experience of Drosophila husbandry and genetics, be experienced in modeling human renal conditions in a Drosophila model, have experience in immunofluorescence labelling, confocal imaging and quantitative analyses as well as organoid culture. Skills in coding using Python or Matlab environments are essential.

Appointment at Research Associate level is dependent on having a PhD; those without a PhD will be appointed at Research Assistant level. Those who have submitted but not yet received their PhD will be appointed at Research Assistant level, which will be amended to Research Associate once the PhD has been awarded.

Salary Scales are: Research Assistant: £33,662 - £36,320, Research Associate: £38,448 - £46,970.

The Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience is a large interactive department with a vibrant research community including labs using a variety of model organism and organoid models. Scientists are drawn to the Department from all over the world, creating a lively and international community for the exchange of ideas and approaches.

Informal enquiries about the position can be made to Prof. Katja Röper ([email removed]).

Further information about the Röper lab can be found at: https://www.pdn.cam.ac.uk/people/katja-roper

Fixed Term: the funds for this post are available for 3 years in the first instance.

Apply:

Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.

To apply for this post, please submit a CV, and a motivation letter detailing why you want to contribute to this project and how this post will be a good stepping-stone for your career. We also need the contact details for two people who can provide a professional reference.

The closing date for applications is midnight on 22 November 2026.

Please quote reference PM51648 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.