Research Associate in Advanced Cryo-Imaging (Maternity Cover 12 Months)
Posted on January 21, 2026 (about 4 hours ago)
Research Associate in Advanced Cryo-Imaging (Maternity Cover 12 Months)
The Rosalind Franklin Institute (the Franklin) is a technology institute established by the UK Government as a unique centre committed to advancing tools that are needed to transform healthcare in the future.
The Institute brings together researchers in life and physical sciences, and engineering, to develop a spectrum of tools to image, interpret and intervene in biological systems. These insights will speed up the discovery of new medicines, help find new diagnostics and contribute to a deeper understanding of human health and disease.
As a Research Associate at the Franklin you will bring scientific knowledge and skills to deliver a specific research project and/or bring independent, creative science or specific skills to a team delivering a project or programme. Through this work you will build scientific independence, develop new science and leadership skills, and establish a growing external reputation.
The successful candidate will exploit advanced cryogenic correlative imaging approaches to dissect the molecular, structural, and biophysical mechanisms governing HIV maturation and early entry. In collaboration with the group of Sergi Padilla at Kings College, the role combines time-resolved FLIM/FRET measurements employing custom-engineered biosensors with cryo-electron tomography and high-resolution structural analysis to resolve dynamic conformational and assembly processes during viral maturation. The project aims to extend this nascent correlative technique into cells and potentially tissues to enable lifetime-based correlation of features within the cell.
Key Responsibilities
As a Research Associate you will:
- Scientifically lead the understanding of molecular mechanisms by which HIV matures before entry.
- Develop novel correlative methods for cryogenic workflows.
- Plan and conduct experiments, analyse and interpret results and supervise delivery of outputs such as research reports and patent applications.
- Work within a project team, contributing to wider projects around the Franklin’s key Challenges.
- Lead major contributions to research outputs including papers, patents and presentations.
- Support and develop others including day-to-day supervision of students or visitors.
- Develop research independence with opportunities to further develop scientific skills and experience.
- Collaborate with other researchers and actively contribute to exchange of ideas through internal and external networks.
- Understand, interpret, create and communicate appropriately within a research context.
- Develop search and discovery skills and techniques.
- Be supervised by a Scientist/Senior Scientist in delivery of research outputs.
Person Specification and Requirements
The role requires a PhD/DPhil (or equivalent). Candidates close to completion of their PhD/DPhil may be considered; in that case the initial appointment will be at £37,500 per annum and increased on completion of the qualification.
Benefits and Working Environment
The Franklin offers 25 days holiday plus bank holidays and Christmas shutdown, a generous pension scheme (employer contribution currently up to 18%), Group Life Assurance, hybrid and flexible working, training and development opportunities, transport and cycle-to-work schemes, employee discounts, occupational health and wellbeing support, a health cash plan, subsidised canteen, free on-site parking and a campus location in beautiful countryside with social and sports clubs open to staff.
The Hub building provides state-of-the-art laboratories and the Institute is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion.
How to Apply
To be considered for this role please submit a CV and a cover letter explaining why you think you are the right person for this job. Please include information about your education and work experience.
The closing date for applications is 23:59 on Sunday 1st February 2026.
Further Information
Before submitting your application please ensure you read the Job Information Pack for full details of this role (Job Pack available on the vacancy page).
Applicants should refer to the Candidate Privacy Policy and may contact [email protected] to discuss adjustments or requirements confidentially. The Institute welcomes applications from around the world.