Applications are invited for a post-doctoral Research Associate post to work in Dr Xuan Li's group, based in the Cardiovascular Division, Department of Medicine, University of Cambridge. We are looking for an independent postdoc interested in innate immunity regulation and inflammatory diseases.

We are investigating molecular and cellular control of innate immunity, particularly inflammasome pathway and IL-1 production, and relevant controls on the pathways in regulating cardiovascular disease development (atherosclerosis, myocardial infarction and congenital heart disease). The recent outcome of CANTOs (The Canakinumab anti-inflammatory Thrombosis Outcome Study) clinical trial using anti-IL-1 antibody  canankinumab demonstrates that blocking IL-1 prevent recurrent vascular events (PMID: 28845751) and highlights the importance of limiting inflammation during cardiovascular disease development.

Our group has recently demonstrated the microtubule- organizing centre and microtubule-dependent events are important in orchestrating inflammatory output (PMID: 28656979). We are further exploring the relevant mechanism and effect of this regulation, and extending our knowledge beyond immune cells. We employ a spectrum of methods including genetic manipulation (CRISPR), biochemical assays, mass spectrometry, advanced microscopy, complex data handling, and disease model work to address these questions.

The successful candidate have a PhD (or equivalent) in a relevant life science field (e.g. immunology, biochemistry, cell biology, vascular biology, medicine) with strong publication record and creative thinking. Practical experience in any of the techniques listed above would be advantageous.

Informal enquiries are very welcome and should be addressed to Dr Li (XL315@cam.ac.uk).

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 2 years in the first instance.

Once an offer of employment has been accepted, the successful candidate will be required to undergo a basic disclosure (criminal records check) check, a health assessment and a security check.

To apply online for this vacancy and to view further information about the role, please visit:

http://www.jobs.cam.ac.uk/job/15896. This will take you to the role on the University’s Job Opportunities pages. There you will need to click on the 'Apply online' button and register an account with the University's Web Recruitment System (if you have not already) and log in before completing the online application form

Please ensure that you upload a covering letter and CV in the Upload section of the online application. If you upload any additional documents which have not been requested, we will not be able to consider these as part of your application.

Please include details of your referees, including email address and phone number, one of which must be your most recent line manager.

Closing date for applications is the 27th May 2018, with interviews yet to be confirmed by the department.

Please quote reference RC14133 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

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