Research Assistant/Associate in AFM and Mechanobiology

University of Glasgow; Glasgow; On-site; GBP 52,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading UK university is seeking a research associate to contribute to the development of novel microscope systems for studying ultrasound mechanical dynamics in biological systems. The role entails planning research, documenting outcomes, and mentoring students while contributing to publications and presentations at conferences. Candidates should have a relevant honours degree or PhD and experience in microscopy and imaging techniques. This full-time position offers a salary range based on experience, along with excellent benefits and professional development opportunities.

Benefits

Generous leave package

Pension and benefits

Free sports membership

Flexible working options

Qualifications

• Specialist knowledge in AI and computational techniques in imaging and sensing.
• Comprehensive knowledge of neuroscience and experimental design.
• Hands-on experience in atomic force microscopy and fluorescence lifetime imaging.

Responsibilities

• Plan and conduct research according to project deliverables.
• Document research output and maintain records.
• Mentor undergraduate and postgraduate students.

Skills

Atomic Force Microscopy

Fluorescence Lifetime Imaging

Communication Skills

Interpersonal Skills

Problem-Solving Skills

Education

Honours Degree (SCQF Level 10)

PhD (SCQF Level 12)

Job description

Job Purpose

You will contribute to a leading contribution to the development of novel microscope systems for the study of ultrasound mechanical dynamics in biological systems, working with Prof. Daniele Faccio and Prof. Massimo Vassalli at the Advanced Research Centre, University of Glasgow. The project will bridge disciplines: Atomic Force Microscopy, biology and fluorescence lifetime imaging – the ideal candidate will have experience in all of these domains. The research will be carried out in the Advanced Research Centre, a multidisciplinary research building with labs specialised in photonics, quantum technologies, bioengineering, pharmacology and on‑site facilities for neuron and cell culture development.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

• Plan and conduct assigned research individually or jointly in accordance with the project deliverables and research strategy.
• Document research output including analysis and interpretation of all data, maintaining records and databases, drafting technical/progress reports and papers as appropriate.
• Develop and enhance your research profile and that of the University of Glasgow and the research group, including contributing to publications of international quality in high‑profile refereed journals.
• Contribute to the presentation of work at international and national conferences, seminars, colloquia and workshops.
• Contribute to the identification of potential funding sources and assist in developing proposals to secure funding from internal and external bodies.
• Collaborate with colleagues and participate in meetings, seminars and workshops across the research group, school, college, university and wider community.
• Contribute to the organisation, supervision, mentoring and training of undergraduate and postgraduate students and less experienced project team members.
• Perform administrative tasks related to group and school activities, including budgets and expenditure.
• Carry out modest teaching activities (e.g. demonstrations) and associated admin as assigned.
• Keep up to date with current knowledge and recent advances in the field/discipline.
• Engage in continuing professional development activities as appropriate.
• Undertake any other duties of equivalent standing as assigned by the Head of School or Director of Research Institute.
• Contribute to the enhancement of the University’s international profile in line with its Strategic Plan.

For Appointment at Grade 7

• Perform the above duties with a higher degree of independence, leadership and responsibility, particularly in relation to planning, funding, collaborating and publishing research, and mentoring colleagues.
• Establish and sustain a track record of independent and joint published research to establish and maintain your expert reputation in the subject area.
• Survey the research literature and environment, understand the research challenges, and develop/implement a suitable research strategy.

Knowledge & Qualifications

Essential:

• SCQF Level 10 (Honours degree) in a relevant subject or a cognate discipline, or equivalent.
• Specialist theoretical and practical knowledge in AI and computational techniques in imaging, sensing or neuromorphics; neuroscience and design of experiments involving EEG, MEG, fMRI, fNIRS or DCS; development of optical imaging technologies for brain and/or biological tissue characterisation, with particular emphasis on brain tissue.
• Comprehensive and up‑to‑date knowledge of the wider subject area or subject specialism.

For Appointment at Grade 7 – Knowledge & Qualifications

Essential:

• Scottish Credit and Qualification Framework level 12 (PhD) plus a track record of emerging independence, or equivalent professional qualifications and experience.

Knowledge and Skills

Essential:

• Track record of hands‑on experience in all of the following: atomic force microscopy applied to biological systems; fluorescence lifetime imaging of biological systems; measurement of cellular membrane tension dynamics.
• Excellent communication skills (oral and written), including public presentations and ability to communicate complex data/concepts clearly and concisely.
• Excellent interpersonal skills including team working and a collegiate approach.
• Evidence of problem‑solving skills with a flexible and pragmatic approach.

For Appointment at Grade 7 – Knowledge and Skills

• Comprehensive and up‑to‑date knowledge of current issues and future directions within the wider subject area or subject specialism.
• Knowledge of project‑specific technical models, equipment or techniques.

Experience

Essential:

• Sufficient relevant research experience (or equivalent) suitable for an early‑career researcher in the listed fields.
• Experience of conducting systematic reviews in the relevant area.
• Experience of scientific writing.
• Evidence of an emerging track record of publications in a relevant field.

For Appointment at Grade 7 – Experience

• Track record of presentation and publication of research results in quality journals/conferences.
• Experience of making a leading contribution in academic activities.
• Ability to demonstrate a degree of independence as illustrated by identification of project objectives, design and analysis of experiments, pursuing research funding and drafting papers.
• Experience in undertaking independent research.

Desirable

• An emerging national or international reputation.

Closing date: 5 January 2026

Terms and Conditions

Salary will be Grade 6/7, £33,951 – £37,694 / £41,064 – £51,753 per annum. This post is full‑time and has funding for up to 2 years. The University of Glasgow has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK. If you require a Skilled Worker visa to work in the UK, you will be required to meet the eligibility requirements of the visa route to be assigned a Certificate of Sponsorship. This post may be eligible to be sponsored under the Skilled Worker visa route if tradeable points can be used under the Skilled Worker visa rules.

As a valued member of our team, you can expect:

• A warm welcoming and engaging organisational culture, where your talents are developed and nurtured, and success is celebrated and shared.
• An excellent employment package with generous terms and conditions including 41 days of leave for full‑time staff, pension, benefits and discount packages.
• A flexible approach to working.
• A commitment to support your health and wellbeing, including a free 6‑month UofG Sport membership for all new staff joining the University.

Equality, diversity and inclusion are at the heart of our values. Applications are particularly welcome from across our communities and, in particular, people from the Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) community, and other protected characteristics who are under‑represented within the University.

We endorse the principles of Athena Swan and hold bronze, silver and gold awards across the University.

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