Research Assistant​/Associate

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

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.

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.

• 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

• 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