Research Assistant in Human Nutrition and Metabolism

We are seeking a research assistant in Human Nutrition and Metabolism research to join our group’s efforts to increase the current knowledge on the role of nutrition in metabolic health. The role offers an exceptional opportunity to join Dr. Maria Chondronikola’s group which is based at the highly collaborative environment and world-leading Institute of Metabolic Science (https://www.ims.cam.ac.uk/) at the University of Cambridge. This position is funded by the Wellcome Trust.

The role of this position is to assist with the implementation of clinical research studies to investigate the effect of nutrition in human cardiometabolic health. Main duties include the execution of the clinical research studies according to established protocols under Dr. Chondronikola’s supervision. Additional duties are conducting bench work and completing a series of biochemical analyses, including the preparation and analysis of human blood and tissue samples for specified parameters using different biochemical and molecular techniques.

Applicants should have:

• Bachelor’s degree in nutrition or related area, or equivalent experience/training.
• Experience participating in the execution of human clinical studies human clinical studies/dietary intervention studies or experience interacting with individuals in a health care setting.
• Outstanding organisational and record-keeping practices and be able to independently manage long-term projects to meet deadlines.
• An ability and desire to work independently once appropriate training and guidance have been provided, and an interest in the area of human nutrition and metabolism.
• Demonstrated oral and written communication skills for interacting with study participants, other research team members and collaborators.
• Experience in the proper use of automatic pipettes, balances, and centrifuges, including complete understanding and use of metric units of measure.
• Good computer skills in the use of office software (e.g., Excel, Word, PowerPoint)
• Willingness to work flexible hours (e.g., occasional evenings and weekends) and assist multiple group members with their projects.

The ideal applicant would also have the following experience and attributes:

• Experience with clinical research techniques (meal testing, insulin clamps, OGTT, CGM) for the in vivo assessment of human nutrition and metabolism.
• Experience ordering study supplies and maintaining equipment and facilities according to laboratory and departmental regulations.
• Experience in the proper use of laboratory instrumentation and performance of molecular and biochemical assays.
• Register dietitian