The Functional Genomics Screening Laboratory (FGSL) performs functional interrogation of the genome at scale to shed light on mechanisms underlying tissue homeostasis and disease biology. Formed as a joint venture between the Milner Therapeutics Institute (MTI) at the University of Cambridge, Medical Research Council (MRC) and AstraZeneca, this laboratory aligns with the MTI’s vision of breaking the mould of how academia and industry interact and converge in driving new scientific discoveries. As part of the UK Human Functional Genomics Initiative, the lab forms dynamic academic-industry partnerships to accelerate genomics research.

The research associate will be supporting our ongoing effort in expanding our project portfolio and molecular toolbox in functional genomics. Through our ongoing proposal call for complex cellular models (e.g. stem cells, primary cells, 3D cultures), we will identify potential models that will benefit from proof-of-concept work in CRISPR editing. By working closely with the academic collaborators, the research associate will onboard these models in-house and develop an optimal delivery approach that will warrant high-throughput arrayed screening.

The post holder will also be involved in developing, evaluating and applying emerging technologies to build new capabilities. This may be developing workflows to perform and/or integrate one or more omics approaches such as transcriptomics, proteomics or morphological profiling of perturbed cells. Familiarity with bulk or single cell transcriptomics profiling as well as next-generation sequencing is highly desirable. Together, these new capabilities will advance understanding of complex phenotypes in untapped research areas. The role will suit individuals with an interest in developing and applying CRISPR technologies in different cellular models. The role is supported by the MRC Screening Access Fund, aiming to reduce barriers in accessing the screening lab.

Closing date: 12 April 2026

Informal enquiries can be directed to Chun Hao Wong, quoting PR49179.

To find out more and apply, click here.

Are you a start-up interested in bio-incubator space?

Become part of our vibrant Institute in a much sought after location on Cambridge Biomedical Campus. The Milner Therapeutics Institute has limited space for research intensive, R&D companies, working in an areas related to the Institute’s expertise (e.g. functional genomics, early target discovery, therapeutics). You will be working side by side with academics, entrepreneurs and industry scientists.

To discuss, please fill in this short form.

Bio-spark is an educational entrepreneurship programme that provides support for early-stage scientists, including but not limited to those engaged in a PhD or Postdoc. The programme runs annually from November to June.

Bio-spark provides opportunities to sample different company environments and offers mentorship that may lead to the formation of companies. If you can think beyond the usual boundaries, have an appetite for innovation, and are in search of the intellectual spark that will make a difference to human health, this is the programme for you.

To learn more and apply, visit their Bio-spark webpage.

The Milner Therapeutics Institute is part of Cambridge NeuroWorks, a three-year collaboration with the science funding agency ARIA and multiple Cambridge partners.

Cambridge NeuroWorks supports the development of breakthrough technologies, from electronic brain implants to brain-computer interfaces, designed to improve lives globally. NeuroWorks Fellowships provide funding, mentorship, and a dynamic community to drive bold innvoation in neurotechnology. The Milner Therapeutics Institute provides access to lab space and mentoring support for NeuroWorks Fellows, and brings together academic, clinical and industry partners across technology and therapeutics both in-person and online via Connect: Health Tech.

To learn more, visit Cambridge NeuroWorks.

Connect: Health Tech catalyses connections which spark collaboration at the interface between medicine and technology, tapping into Cambridge’s unique ecosystem to enable partnerships, innovation and future growth.

By strengthening interdisciplinary bridges between academia, industry and healthcare Connect: Health Tech facilitates real-world possibilities transforming innovative ideas into tangible outcomes that benefit society.

Join the community at: connect.cam.ac.uk

The Founders Growth Community is a collaborative effort between the Milner Therapeutics Institute, Babraham Research Campus, o2h group, Illumina Ventures, and Start Codon. The initiative comprises a series of workshops, masterclasses, round tables, and panel discussions, tailored for founders/CEOs in the scale-up, commercialisation, or growth phase. The focus is on exploring what comes next for founders/CEOs in terms of education, learning, and community development.

Visit the Founders Growth Community webpage.