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We are seeking a motivated Research Assistant, Preclinical Imaging to support animal imaging studies using Positron Emission Tomography (PET), Computed Tomography (CT), and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) at the University of Cambridge.
The Department of Radiology combines scientific excellence with access to advanced imaging facilities and has recently established the Preclinical Imaging Research Laboratory (PIRL) on the Cambridge Biomedical Campus. This facility plays a central role in the Department's translational research programme, supporting the development of new imaging technologies and their application to biomedical research.
The successful applicant will be central to the hands-on care, preparation, and monitoring of animals during imaging procedures, as well as supporting the day-to-day running of the imaging facility.
Key responsibilities
- Operating the imaging systems (CT, PET, MRI) - training will be provided.
- Handling and caring for small animals (mice and rats) during imaging experiments, in compliance with Home Office regulations.
- Carrying out routine procedures such as anaesthesia, animal monitoring, injections, blood sampling, dissection and post-procedure care.
- Handling, transport and administration of radioactivity for imaging.
- Assisting researchers in maintaining disease models (e.g. tumour xenografts, transgenic animals) and supporting tissue preparation when required.
- Preparing and setting up imaging equipment for experimental sessions.
- Assisting with routine maintenance, calibration, and quality control of the imaging systems.
- Supporting data handling, archiving, and ensuring compliance with regulatory and safety procedures.
- Managing facility bookings, maintaining records, and liaising with researchers, technical staff, and vendors.
- Ensuring compliance with regulatory and safety procedures relevant to animal experiments, radioactivity, chemicals and other laboratory practices.
Who we're looking for
We are looking for a candidate with experience or willingness to be involved in animal handling and laboratory work, ideally in a biomedical or preclinical research environment. Knowledge of imaging modalities (MRI, PET, CT) and computing skills for data management would be an advantage, but full training will be provided. A Home Office Personal Licence (or willingness to obtain one) is essential.
This role is ideal for someone who is enthusiastic about animal research, enjoys practical, hands-on work, and wants to contribute to the smooth operation of a world-class imaging facility.
As this role involves working in an MRI environment, applicants must be able to safely enter MRI areas (i.e. not have pacemakers, certain implants, or metallic foreign bodies). Salary range does not cover VISA sponsorship, and so the applicant must already have the right to work in the UK.
Fixed-term: This post will be fixed for one year from the start date, with potential to extend.
To apply
Once an offer of employment has been accepted, the successful candidate will be required to undergo a security check.
Please ensure that you upload a covering letter and CV in the Upload section of the online application. The covering letter should outline how you match the criteria for the post and why you are applying for this role. 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. Please quote reference RQ47382 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.
