Job opportunities at Gurdon and Milner Therapeutics Institutes

What makes us human? is the public engagement programme of the Wellcome-funded Human Developmental Biology Initiative (HDBI). HDBI is a human developmental biology consortium of sixteen research groups across seven UK universities/research institutes which aims to deliver fundamental knowledge about human development. Working with HDBI scientists, What makes us human? is providing a culture of engagement and new ways of working allowing the science to anticipate, include and respond to a broad range of societal insights and perspectives. What makes us human? focuses on developing the knowledge, skills and confidence of HDBI scientists and public engagement practitioners through an on-going programme of training and support. It is also developing long-term relationships with stakeholders, delivering specific engagement projects and is committed to on-going external evaluation and refinement of its programme.

We are looking for a part time HDBI public engagement manager who is eager to build on their existing experience to coordinate and deliver this ambitious multi-centre engagement project. The public engagement manager will be based at the Gurdon Institute in Cambridge (www.gurdon.cam.ac.uk) and will work with Dr Emma Rawlins, the HDBI academic lead for public engagement (www.gurdon.cam.ac.uk/research/rawlins; www.hdbi.org/public-engagement).

The HDBI public engagement manager will coordinate a multi-stakeholder Insights Group to inform and improve our research, engagement and communications. They will coordinate a network of public engagement practitioners across the seven institutions of the HDBI and external collaborators/sub-contractors and manage the overall budget to ensure delivery of What makes us human? Working with the Insights group, they will develop and deliver bespoke training activities for all HDBI scientists. Working with the HDBI overall programme manager they will deliver internal and external communications relating to public engagement. Moreover, there will be an opportunity to work closely with HDBI scientists based at the Gurdon Institute to assist with development and delivery of local HDBI engagement activities.

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available until 16 February 2026 in the first instance.

The post is available immediately.

If you have any questions about this vacancy or the application process, please contact HR@gurdon.cam.ac.uk.

We welcome applications from individuals who wish to be considered for part-time working or other flexible working arrangements.

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

Please quote reference PR45947 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.

We are looking for a full-time Research Assistant working closely with Dr Fengtong Ji in Dr Fengzhu Xiong's lab at the Gurdon Institute, University of Cambridge. The successful candidate will be involved in studies of collective cell dynamics and tissue morphogenesis during embryo development using cellular, molecular and nano-engineering approaches.

Cell-type transition and tissue property changes widely exist in the development of normal and malignant tissues. Using chick embryos as the model system, we are investigating the mechanical cues regulating tissue organisation and developing innovative techniques to explore the molecular and physical mechanisms through our cutting-edge homemade facilities, including a magnetic nanorobot platform for sensing and manipulation and a tissue force microscope (TiFM). In addition, ample resources from the core facilities at Gurdon Institute and other departments at Cambridge are accessible, including but not limited to advanced microscopes, computational services, and data analysis assistance.

As a member of an interdisciplinary team, the candidate will have the opportunity to receive training in a variety of techniques, including molecular biology, embryology, imaging, computation, biophysics, and nanorobotics. They will also have the opportunity to develop independent projects after gaining adequate experience. Moreover, they will receive support if they wish to participate in career development activities such as appropriate professional activities while in the role. This is an excellent opportunity for someone enthusiastic about learning new techniques, proactive in research and self-motivated in advancing science. Their active involvement in this project will contribute to their future PhD application or academic career if they wish.

The successful applicant is anticipated to have detail-oriented research insight and exceptional record-keeping working habits. They will have strong organisational and communication skills and excellent problem-solving skills. Experience and a good understanding of working in research labs are desired. Main duties include: conduct wet-lab experiments; acquire and process data; prepare reagents and samples; optimise protocols; program and debug codes for analysis; coordinate with the PI and Lab Manager; participate in regular group meetings and other group activities.

The position is available from 1st Oct 2025.

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 (including the names of two people who can provide a letter of reference) in the Upload section of the online application. The covering letter should outline your career aspirations and why you are interested in the post.

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

Please quote reference PR45603 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.

The Innovation Pathway Coordinator at the Milner Therapeutics Insitute (MTI) is a new and exciting opportunity for an individual to play a key role in advancing neurotechnology innovation within the Cambridge NeuroWorks ARIA Activation Partnership.

The partnership comprises a consortium of organisations:Cambridge University Health Partners, several departments of the University of Cambridge, Babraham Research Campus, Cambridge & Peterborough NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge Network, and Vellos. The partners will provide creative talent with access to the expertise and resources needed to progress a new generation of neuro-technologies designed to treat conditions such as depression, dementia, chronic pain, epilepsy and injuries to the nervous system.

The role coordinates the delivery of the ideation ("What If") programme within the broader Cambridge NeuroWorks activity. This involves supporting the Innovation Pathway Manager to develop and implement the ideation ("What If") programme and support the "Blue Sky" fellows during their experimental exploration (Blue Sky) phase. The role also supports the transitions into the commercial translation ("Activation") phase, (led by the Babraham Research Campus. Collaborating with other programme coordinators and managers the role holder ensures the "What If" programme aligns with the goals of the Cambridge NeuroWorks Activation Partnership.

The role holder will produce programme content, analyse programme feedback, communicate/ promote events, coordinate/ manage communications with Blue Sky fellows and "What If" part-time participants, and foster community engagement with both internal and external stakeholders in the Cambridge NeuroWorks Community space on Connect: Health Tech.

The ideal candidate will have previous experience in working in an entrepreneurial environment and initiating, developing, and maintaining stakeholder relationships. Will also be able to demonstrate knowledge of project coordination, ability to plan, execute and keep to deadlines.

For the full person specification, click below to view the further particulars.

About the Milner Therapeutics Institute (MTI)

The MTI is a purpose-built research institute at the University of Cambridge, with an overarching vision to convert pioneering science into therapies by driving academic-industry partnerships. The MTI is breaking new ground in academic/industry interactions and demonstrates a world-leading model of start-up companies, academics and pharma working side by side at the bench. The MTI environment offers a unique opportunity to work at the interface of academia and industry, applying ground-breaking technologies to drug discovery and patient treatment.

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available until 30 September 2027 in the first instance.

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

For an informal discussion in confidence please contact Alexandra Huener, Head of Entrepreneurship ah930@cam.ac.uk.

Please quote reference PR45366 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.

Are you an experienced HR professional looking for a varied and fast-paced role at the heart of a world-leading scientific research institute, embedded within the University of Cambridge?

A rare and exciting opportunity has arisen to join our busy and friendly research institute as a temporary HR Manager. The Gurdon Institute is a department of the University of Cambridge at the cutting edge of science, with 12 research groups, carrying out research on projects related to cancer and developmental biology. We are seeking a dedicated and proactive individual to become an integral part of our administration team. This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to a globally recognised research environment, providing expert HR support to staff, students and visitors.

We are looking for someone with significant professional HR experience, ideally within Higher Education. You should be confident in handling complex and sensitive personnel matters with professionalism and discretion. The successful candidate will deliver a comprehensive HR service to the Institute, developing, implementing and maintaining an effective HR strategy and will ensure alignment with both the Institute's objectives and the University's HR policies and best practices.

Working closely with the Business and Operations Manager and supported by an HR Administrator, you will be part of a friendly and collaborative core administration team that underpins the operational success of the Institute.

The successful candidate will have a relevant degree or equivalent working experience and Level 5 CIPD qualification. A problem-solving mindset, strong attention to detail and the ability to prioritise workloads effectively to meet deadlines and exceptional written and verbal communication skills are essential, as well as the ability to work flexibly and manage competing priorities. Experience in line management and the ability to work confidentially, with tact and discretion, are also key attributes.

The Institute currently operates a hybrid working model, but the postholder is expected to be on-site for a minimum of three days per week.

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.

Temporary cover: This post is fixed-term for one year or the return of the post holder, whichever is the earlier.

If you are looking for a role where you can make a real impact within a leading research environment, we would love to hear from you!

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

Please quote reference PR45353 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

Previous Applicants need not reapply.

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.

The Milner Therapeutics Institute (MTI) at the University of Cambridge aims to accelerate translation of pioneering science into therapies. The newly established Functional Genomics Screening Laboratory (FGSL) at the MTI applies arrayed CRISPR screening in human cellular models to advance mechanistic understanding underlying tissue homeostasis and disease biology. Formed as a joint venture with the Medical Research Council and AstraZeneca, this new laboratory aligns with the MTI's vision of breaking the mould of how academia and industry interact. The FGSL is part of the UK Research and Innovation's Human Functional Genomics Initiative to facilitate innovative and collaborative research to drive new scientific discoveries.

We are seeking to recruit a biologist with a strong background in complex cellular modelling to join the FGSL team. You will be applying your expertise in characterising physiological-relevant models such as organoids, primary cells, co-cultures or stem cells to design and implement arrayed CRISPR screens. The ideal candidate is proficient in developing a range of functional assays such as imaging and flow cytometry to identify key phenotypes suitable for high-throughput screening. Previous experience in utilising automated or semi-automated liquid handlers for microplate-based assays is highly desirable.

This is a highly collaborative role where you will work closely with scientists and bioinformaticians from the MTI, AstraZeneca, small/medium enterprises and academic institutions. You will have the opportunity to develop new skills in areas including multi-modality screens, automation platform and bioinformatics analysis.

The MTI is a buoyant, vibrant and fast-paced environment and is ideal for those who thrive in the face of change. We welcome applications from recent PhD graduates or experienced postdocs that are enthusiastic to work as part of a dynamic team at the interface between academia and industry. We offer an engaging and supportive environment that fosters professional growth and career development.

Interviews will be held at the Milner Therapeutics Institute w/c 14th April. We are aiming for candidates to start as soon as possible once all relevant processes are completed.

To find out the full duties of the role and person specification, click below to view the further particulars.

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

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

Informal enquiries can be directed to Chun Hao Wong, FGSL lead, wc389@cam.ac.uk

Please quote reference PR43930 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.

This role is an excellent opportunity for a driven ambitious individual to develop their skills and experience as the Innovation Pathway Manager (Ideation) at the Milner Therapeutics Institute (MTI). The role holder will become a key connector for research-based innovation, working closely with other stakeholders in the Cambridge NeuroWorks ARIA Activation Partnership.

The partnership comprises a consortium of organisations (Cambridge University Health Partners, several departments of the University of Cambridge, Babraham Research Campus, Cambridge & Peterborough NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge Network, and Vellos). The partners will provide creative talent with access to the expertise and resources needed to progress a new generation of neuro-technologies designed to treat conditions such as depression, dementia, chronic pain, epilepsy and injuries to the nervous system.

The Innovation Pathway Manager (Ideation) will implement, nurture and develop an inclusive neurotechnology community and ensure compliance and smooth operation throughout each phase of the programme. This role directly impacts the development and validation of novel neurotechnology concepts through structured support and access to curated expertise.

The Innovation Pathway Manager will work closely with the "What If" Leads (Milner Institute Directors; Head of Entrepreneurship; COO of Vellos), the Innovation Pathway Manager (Proof of Concept) counterpart role at the Maxwell Centre, and Cambridge NeuroWorks team members. They will plan and support the development of the "What If" ideation and experimental pathway programme, building upon trend scanning, ideation, venture feasibility assessments, planning experimental setups, managing resource allocation, and fosters community engagement with both internal and external stakeholders.

The Milner Therapeutics Institute (MTI) is a purpose-built research institute at the University of Cambridge, with an overarching vision to convert pioneering science into therapies by driving academic-industry partnerships. The MTI is breaking new ground in academic/industry interactions and demonstrates a world-leading model of start-up companies, academics and pharma working side by side at the bench. The MTI environment offers a unique opportunity to work at the interface of academia and industry, applying ground-breaking technologies to drug discovery and patient treatment.

The ideal candidate is educated to Masters/PhD level or demonstrate equivalent senior practical experience, relevant to neurosciences / medical sciences / health tech, and has worked in research / entrepreneurial environments. They will possess highly developed organisational and project management skills, with the ability to communicate effectively with stakeholders at all levels.

If you are looking for a challenge and opportunity to develop yourself, your network, the programme and the impact it unlocks, then you will find this role very rewarding.

Fixed term (subject to funding, current end date 30 September 2027)

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

Informal enquiries can be directed to Alexandra Huener, Head of Entrepreneurship ah930@cam.ac.uk.

Please quote reference PR44929 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.

The Simons group at the Gurdon Institute is seeking a Research Associate in epithelial stem cell and disease biology.

Alongside wet lab work using transgenic mouse models and organoid systems, the Simons lab makes use of analytical and computational approaches to study mechanisms of cell fate in developing and adult tissues in normal and perturbed states (http://www.simons.group.gurdon.cam.ac.uk/). The focus of the wet lab is predominant on the biology of the intestinal epithelium and squamous epithelial tissue types. A particular interest of the group is on defining the transcriptional and epigenetic factors that drive injury-induced cellular reprogramming, and how these programmes become redirected or subverted during tumour development.

With experience in experimental studies of epithelial tissues, you will play a key role in the investigation of the mechanisms of stem and progenitor cell fate during the maintenance and repair of epithelial tissues with an emphasis on mouse models and human organoid tissue in normal and diseased states. Using a combination of cell lineage tracing, gene-specific perturbations, organoid assays, and single-cell transcriptional profiling, the aim of the project will be to define the functional heterogeneity and fate behaviour of stem cells and their progenies, and how their programmes become altered during regeneration and (pre)neoplastic transformation.

You will have a grounding in epithelial biology with a keen interest and aptitude for work on transgenic mouse models, with experience in the manipulation, characterisation, and confocal imaging of epithelial tissues. Further experience in the collection and analysis of the single-cell RNA-seq data, the manipulation of mouse and/or human organoid culture systems, and/or clonal lineage tracing will be highly beneficial. You should have a PhD in a relevant subject, a sound understanding of molecular biology, and a solid publication record in cell biology. You will be expected to be able to work independently and interact well in a dynamic multidisciplinary environment.

The Simons lab is co-located in the Gurdon Institute, a centre of developmental and disease biology in Cambridge, and the Department of Applied Mathematics and Theoretical Physics. The Institute provides a stimulating environment that promotes collaborative and interdisciplinary research. Its postdoc association encourages scientific and social interactions and provides career development and teaching opportunities.

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

The position is full time and available immediately.

Where the successful applicant does not yet have a PhD, they will normally be appointed as a Research Assistant, salary range of £34,132 on the understanding that they will be appointed as a Research Associate, salary range £37,174-£45,413, upon successful completion of their PhD.

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

Please quote reference PR44903 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.