Job description
Salary £32,080 to £47,389 per annum, depending on skills and experience (minimum £35608 with relevant PhD).
Closing Date Sunday 20 September 2026
Reference MED2299826
Applications are invited for a highly motivated and talented Research Associate/Fellow to join the University of Nottingham's Brain Tumour Research Centre of Excellence, a dynamic, multidisciplinary hub dedicated to advancing brain cancer research.
The Centre is supported by a prestigious 5-year programme grant from the charity 'Brain Tumour Research (BTR)' and represents a cross-Faculty research partnership. It brings together leading national and international collaborators, including the University of Freiburg, Mayo Clinic Arizona, and Erasmus University Rotterdam. The hub of the Centre will be based at the Biodiscovery Institute (BDI), University of Nottingham, and this post will be bridged between BDI and the School of Pharmacy.
We are particularly seeking applicants with expertise or interest in brain tumour metabolomics, specifically tissue and single-cell-based spatial metabolomics using advanced mass spectrometry techniques. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to an ambitious, multifaceted research programme with interdisciplinary links across genomics, metabolomics, advanced medical imaging, preclinical modelling/drug delivery, and mathematical modelling.
You will be joining a diverse and supportive working environment, where hybrid working arrangements with blended laboratory/remote working is commensurate with the role. We are committed to staff development through the provision of training, continued support, and career progression opportunities.
Candidates should hold (or be near completion of) a PhD in metabolomics, analytical science, molecular and cell biology, or a closely related field. Experience in one or more of the following is highly desirable:
- Operating high-resolution mass spectrometry platforms (e.g. Orbitrap, AP-MALDI)
- Handling and analysing large-scale metabolomics datasets
- Data processing using tools such as Compound Discoverer or R
- Fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS)
- Primary tumour cell culture
- Proven track record of publication in peer-reviewed journals
This full-time (36.25 hours/week), fixed-term post is offered for an initial period of 2 years, starting on 1st October 2026 (or as soon as possible thereafter), with a potential 1.5-year extension (total 3.5 years), subject to satisfactory progress. Job share arrangements may be considered.
For informal enquiries, please contact: Prof Ruman Rahman - Centre Director (
[email protected] ) Please note that applications sent directly to this email address will not be accepted.
What we offer- A friendly, diverse, and supportive working environment
- A hybrid working arrangement with the blended approach of home and office working each week
- Generous holiday entitlement of 30 days (or pro rata) plus standard bank holidays and five university closure days including closure between Christmas and New Year.
- Our reward scheme grants bonuses of numerous values for excellent work
- We are committed to staff development through the provision of training, continued support, and career progression opportunities
- You will have access to a range of benefits and rewards, including fitness and health facilities, staff discounts, travel schemes and many more. To find out more about what we can offer you, follow the link to our benefits website
Further information is available in the role profile. To apply for this vacancy please click 'Apply Now' to complete your details.