Research Assistant (Bioelectronic Cell Culture)

About the role

The Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology at the University of Cambridge is looking for a Research Assistant to join the BioElectronic Systems Technology Group. The group works on growing three-dimensional human tissue models on bioelectronic devices. The successful candidate will help establish robust, reproducible cell culture protocols and support studies with external partners. The role suits a motivated scientist with hands-on experience of mammalian cell culture, for example from a master's degree or industry.

The post is based in the department under the supervision of Professor Róisín Owens, with world-class facilities and strong links to clinical and industrial partners. The candidate would ideally start in November 2026. The position is fixed term, funded for 7 months and ending no later than 30 June 2027.

Key responsibilities

• Culture primary and established human cells using aseptic technique, including three-dimensional and air-liquid interface tissue models
• Grow tissue models on bioelectronic culture devices and assess tissue quality and viability
• Assemble and test culture devices and their electronic components, including soldering and small-batch fabrication in the departmental workshop; training is provided in device assembly and workshop techniques
• Sterilise and quality-control devices, focusing on reducing batch-to-batch variation
• Perform barrier-function and electrical measurements of cultured tissues and analyse the data
• Write and maintain standard operating procedures and accurate laboratory records
• Support studies with external partners, including occasional visits to partner labs in the UK and training partner staff in protocols
• Train and mentor less experienced users in cell culture protocols and best practice

Required profile

• Motivated scientist with hands-on experience of mammalian cell culture, for example from a master's degree or industry
• Ability to work under supervision in a research environment