Research Associate, Research Scientist

Salary:Full time starting salary is normally in the range £33,662 to £36,320 with potential progression once in post to £40,704

We are seeking a highly motivated and enthusiastic Research Assistant to join our research team at the University of Birmingham to work on an exciting project funded by the Advanced Research and Invention Agency (ARIA). The project aims to develop innovative technologies for delivering molecular cargos into mitochondria, with the long-term goal of enabling mitochondrial genome engineering and advancing therapeutic approaches for mitochondrial diseases.

The successful candidate will have a strong interest in mitochondrial biology and a passion for developing new experimental approaches. They will contribute to the design, optimisation and validation of strategies for delivering molecular cargo into mitochondria, using a combination of mammalian cell culture, molecular biology, mitochondrial functional assays and advanced imaging techniques.

• An Undergraduate degree in biological sciences, biochemistry, molecular biology, cell biology or a related discipline.
• Demonstrated experience in mammalian cell culture and associated experimental techniques.
• Previous experience in mitochondrial research and mitochondrial functional assays, such as measurements of mitochondrial membrane potential, respiration, ATP production or other indicators of mitochondrial activity.
• Experience in fluorescence microscopy and imaging-based analysis of mitochondrial morphology, organisation or sub-compartment localisation.
• Strong experimental, analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to work both independently and collaboratively.

• A Masters degree in the relevant area is favoured, but not required
• Experience in in vitro reconstitution of biological or biochemical systems.
• Experience in membrane-based delivery systems, particularly approaches for delivering molecular cargo into mitochondria.
• Knowledge of mitochondrial membrane dynamics, particularly mitochondrial fusion and fission.
• Experience in mitochondrial protein targeting, import pathways or subcellular delivery technologies.
• Experience in advanced microscopy or quantitative image analysis.

The successful candidate will join a collaborative and interdisciplinary research environment, working alongside researchers with expertise in mitochondrial genetics, cell biology in the School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham. This position is initially offered for a fixed term of 12 months.

Informal enquiries can be made to Hansong Ma, email

Valuing excellence, sustaining investment.
We value diversity and inclusion at the University of Birmingham and welcome applications from all sections of the community and are open to discussions around all forms of flexible working.

£33,662 to £36,320. Grade 6