Postdoctoral Research Associate – Epithelial Heterogeneity in Pancreatic Cancer Initiation at Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom

Queen Mary University of London (QMUL) is recruiting a full-time Postdoctoral Research Associate (Opportunity ID 11953) in the Centre for Tumour Biology at the Barts Cancer Institute, based at QM London, with a closing date of 20 November 2026.

Job Details

Organization: Queen Mary University of London (QMUL)

Opportunity ID: 11953

Department: Centre for Tumour Biology, Barts Cancer Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry

Position: Postdoctoral Research Associate

Location: QM London (Charterhouse Square), London, United Kingdom

Contract: Fixed-term contract of 3 years

Hours: 35 hours per week (1.0 FTE)

Grade: Grade 4

Closing Date: 20 November 2026, 23:55 (UK time), as stated on the official QMUL vacancy page

Informal Contact: Dr Beatriz Salvador, Lecturer ([email protected])

Project Details

The position supports a Cancer Research UK-funded research programme investigating epithelial cell heterogeneity during the initiation of pancreatic cancer, with a particular focus on how these cells interact with their microenvironment.

The postholder will use single-cell and spatial transcriptomics approaches in human and mouse tissues to characterise epithelial diversity, and will validate findings with complementary methods including mouse models, confocal microscopy, spatial proteomics and 3D organoid co-culture systems.

The aim is to understand the earliest events in pancreatic cancer development and inform better strategies for diagnosis and intervention.

Key Responsibilities

Main duties listed in the job pack:

  • Contribute to the Cell Heterogeneity in Cancer Initiation research at all stages by applying agreed research principles and protocols.
  • Undertake specific research activities under the guidance of Dr Salvador.
  • Prepare research results for seminars and conferences and contribute to writing peer-reviewed papers.
  • Conduct empirical research and develop new techniques with the team.
  • Collate and analyse data.
  • Maintain accurate written and electronic records and secure databases in line with data protection rules.
  • Carry out literature and database searches.
  • Support administrative aspects of the research with the Joint Research Management Office.
  • Assist with supervision of student projects.
  • Follow laboratory hygiene, organisation and safety rules.

Eligibility Criteria

  • A PhD (or close to completion) or equivalent research experience in a relevant subject, and a degree in a relevant field.
  • Qualifications in cell biology and an awarded PhD are desirable.
  • Freshers eligible: no minimum number of years is stated; PhD graduates or candidates close to completion can apply.

Candidates who have not yet received their PhD award are appointed in the junior training zone (Grade 4 spinal points 25–26) until the award letter is received.

Required Skills

  • Relevant knowledge of cancer biology, 3D cell culture, mouse models, and coding/analysis of large datasets.
  • Experience in planning own work, record keeping, report writing and collaborative team working.

Salary

Grade 4 with a salary range of £39,187 – £47,550 per annum.

Additional Information

Benefits include a pension scheme, 30 days’ annual leave, a season ticket loan scheme, flexible working and family-friendly policies.

QMUL is a UKVI licensed sponsor and can issue a Certificate of Sponsorship to successful candidates without the right to work in the UK.

CLICK HERE FOR THE ORIGINAL NOTIFICATION / APPLY ONLINE

The closing date on the official QMUL vacancy page is 20 November 2026, 23:55 (UK time).