At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a team developing innovative PET imaging probes for cancer research.
- Company: CRUK Scotland Institute, a leading cancer research centre in Glasgow.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous annual leave, and professional development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in cancer research and advance your career in a collaborative environment.
- Qualifications: PhD in relevant field and experience in PET radiochemistry or cancer biology.
- Other info: Engaging workplace with a focus on diversity, inclusion, and mental well-being.
The predicted salary is between 37000 - 42893 ÂŁ per year.
Developing a Hepatocellular Carcinoma Subtype — Specific PET Radiotracer for Preclinical PET Imaging
Salary: from ÂŁ37,000 to ÂŁ42,893 subject to experience, plus relocation allowance and visa costs if required.
Contract term: Fixed up to 6 years, subject to successful review at Year 3.
About us
The CRUK Scotland Institute is a cancer research institute, situated in Glasgow with approximately 250 researchers split across 30 research groups consisting of PIs, postdoctoral scientists, PhD students and scientific officers. It is one of Europe's leading cancer research centres, supporting cutting‑edge work into the molecular mechanisms of cancer development.
Project outline
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a highly heterogeneous and often treatment‑resistant cancer, with no clinically validated biomarkers to guide patients toward the most effective targeted therapies. This Jules Thorne funded programme brings together a multidisciplinary team to develop the first subtype‑specific precision approach for HCC.
We are seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Scientist to contribute to the development of a PET imaging probe targeting glutamine synthetase (GS), a downstream effector of canonical Wnt/β‑catenin signalling, to detect this tumour subtype in vivo.
Main Duties & Responsibilities
- Conduct independent research for radiolabelling and characterisation of C‑11 PET tracers, including synthesis, purification, and analytical quality control.
- Perform in‑vitro validation of tracer uptake, specificity, and stability in relevant HCC models.
- Carry out preclinical PET/MRI imaging using established murine liver cancer models to assess metabolic changes.
- Perform quantitative analysis of imaging and ex vivo validation datasets.
- Support translational and GMP‑aligned radiochemistry activities in preparation for future clinical application.
- Collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams, including oncologists, immunologists, and imaging experts, to drive the research programme forward.
- Prepare high‑quality research manuscripts and present findings at national and international conferences.
Knowledge/Qualifications
Essential Criteria- PhD (or near completion) in radiochemistry, chemistry, cancer biology, molecular imaging, biomedical sciences, or a related discipline.
- Experience in PET radiochemistry, tracer handling, or working with radioisotopes.
- Experience in laboratory‑based experimental research, such as cancer biology, molecular imaging, analytical chemistry, or radiotracer validation.
- Ability to work independently, manage experimental workflows, and proactively drive research progress.
- Excellent communication and teamwork skills, with the ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary environment.
- Experience with murine in‑vivo cancer models.
- Background in cancer metabolism.
- Familiarity with preclinical imaging (PET/MRI) workflows, pharmacokinetic analysis, or image quantification.
This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to a cutting‑edge translational cancer research programme, with the potential to make a meaningful impact on clinical patient management.
Postdoc support
- Exciting, innovative cancer research projects in state‑of‑the‑art labs.
- A highly collaborative and interactive research environment.
- Access to and training in key advanced technologies, for example imaging and in‑vivo modelling.
- A mentor enabling scheme to aid personal and professional development.
- A rich programme of scientific exchange through seminars, workshops and meetings.
- Support to make fellowship and small grant applications, including during their transition to their next position.
- Guidance and mentoring to compete for an independent scientist position as well as a multitude of other career options, including in industry.
- A highly engaged postdoc forum, providing peer support, training, careers advice and regular social events.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
Our vision is to build and maintain a diverse and inclusive research culture based on our shared values of Innovate, Respect, Integrity, Teamwork and Excellence.
Employee Benefits
Competitive salary. 40.5 days annual leave including...
Postdoctoral Research Scientist in Glasgow employer: CRUK Scotland Institute
Contact Detail:
CRUK Scotland Institute Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Postdoctoral Research Scientist in Glasgow
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current and former researchers at the CRUK Scotland Institute on LinkedIn. A friendly message can go a long way in getting insider info about the team and the work culture.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for your interview by diving deep into the latest research on hepatocellular carcinoma and PET imaging. Show us you’re not just passionate but also knowledgeable about the field!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your presentation skills! You might need to present your past research or ideas during the interview. Keep it engaging and clear, so we can see your potential as a communicator.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who follow our process!
We think you need these skills to ace Postdoctoral Research Scientist in Glasgow
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience in radiochemistry and cancer biology. We want to see how your skills align with the specific needs of our project on Hepatocellular Carcinoma.
Showcase Your Research Skills: In your application, emphasise your independent research capabilities and any previous work with PET imaging or radiotracer validation. We’re looking for someone who can hit the ground running and contribute to our multidisciplinary team.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your writing clear and to the point. Use straightforward language to describe your experiences and achievements. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see your qualifications.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at the CRUK Scotland Institute.
How to prepare for a job interview at CRUK Scotland Institute
✨Know Your Research Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the latest findings related to hepatocellular carcinoma and the specific role of glutamine synthetase. Familiarise yourself with recent publications, especially the one mentioned in the job description, as it shows your genuine interest and understanding of the field.
✨Showcase Your Technical Skills
Be prepared to discuss your experience with PET radiochemistry and any relevant laboratory techniques. Bring examples of past projects where you’ve successfully conducted tracer validation or preclinical imaging, as this will demonstrate your hands-on expertise.
✨Emphasise Collaboration
Since the role involves working closely with multidisciplinary teams, highlight your teamwork skills. Share specific instances where you collaborated with oncologists, immunologists, or other scientists, and how those experiences contributed to successful outcomes.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few insightful questions ready about the research programme or the team dynamics. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the environment aligns with your career goals and values.