Research Assistant/Associate Job in UK 2026 (£33,000 to...

Research Assistant/Associate Job in UK 2026 (£33,000 to £46,000 Annually)

Posted 2026-03-07 07:35:50

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A Research Assistant / Research Associate opportunity is available in Glasgow, United Kingdom, offering a salary between £33,951 and £46,049 per year, depending on experience and appointment grade (Grade 6 or Grade 7). The position is based at the internationally renowned Cancer Research UK Scotland Institute within the University of Glasgow.

This full-time research role is funded through a UKRI Future Leaders Fellowship project and initially runs for 18 months, with the possibility of extension to three years. The project focuses on investigating the structural architecture of PML bodies and nuclear condensates, key cellular structures involved in gene regulation and cancer biology.

The successful candidate will work closely with Principal Investigator Dr Stephen Carter and collaborate with leading scientists across the Cancer Research UK Scotland Institute and partner research centres. This role provides a strong opportunity for early-career researchers or postdoctoral scientists interested in structural biology, advanced microscopy, and molecular mechanisms underlying cancer development. The post may also qualify for sponsorship under the UK Skilled Worker visa route, subject to eligibility requirements.

About Role

The Research Assistant / Associate will contribute to cutting-edge research exploring how nuclear condensates form and function at the molecular level. Using advanced imaging technologies such as cryo-electron tomography (cryo-ET) and cryo-correlated light and electron microscopy (cryo-CLEM), the researcher will help map the molecular interactions between chromatin and nuclear structures.

The role combines experimental laboratory research with data analysis, collaboration with multidisciplinary teams, and dissemination of findings through publications and conference presentations. Researchers will also contribute to mentoring students, supporting grant proposals, and strengthening the institute’s global research reputation.

The position offers access to state-of-the-art instrumentation within the Scottish Centre for Macromolecular Imaging, including high-end cryogenic electron microscopy and imaging systems that support advanced structural biology research.

About Hiring Firm

University of Glasgow is one of the United Kingdom’s leading research-intensive universities with a strong global reputation for scientific innovation and academic excellence. The university collaborates closely with Cancer Research UK Scotland Institute, a world-class research institute focused on understanding cancer biology and developing innovative treatments through advanced molecular research.

Responsibilities

Plan and conduct experimental research aligned with the project’s objectives
Apply advanced imaging techniques, including cryo-electron tomography and cryogenic microscopy
Analyse and interpret structural and cellular biology datasets
Maintain accurate records of experiments, results, and research databases
Prepare technical reports, research publications, and conference presentations
Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and research partners
Support grant applications and funding proposals for future research
Mentor and supervise undergraduate or postgraduate students where appropriate
Participate in seminars, workshops, and scientific meetings
Contribute to teaching activities and administrative tasks within the research group

Requirements

Honours degree (SCQF Level 10) in biological sciences or a related discipline
PhD in cell biology, structural biology, or related field for Grade 7 appointment
Strong background in cellular or structural biology research methods
Experience with cryo-EM sample preparation and tomographic data analysis
Familiarity with software such as IMOD, EMAN2, Relion-4, and ChimeraX
Excellent scientific communication and writing skills
Strong collaborative and interdisciplinary research abilities
Data analysis and computational skills for biological imaging datasets
Ability to manage research workloads, projects, and timelines effectively
Eligibility to meet UK Skilled Worker visa requirements if international sponsorship is required

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Conclusion

This Research Assistant / Associate role offers a unique opportunity to work at the forefront of cancer research within a globally recognised research institute. The position provides an excellent pathway for early-career researchers seeking to contribute to groundbreaking discoveries in structural and cellular biology.