At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a pioneering team to advance electron microscopy techniques and tackle exciting scientific challenges.
- Company: OBN (UK) Ltd, a forward-thinking organisation in technology and life sciences.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, inclusive environment, and access to state-of-the-art research facilities.
- Other info: Dynamic research environment with opportunities for career growth and innovation.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in cutting-edge research while collaborating with top scientists and engineers.
- Qualifications: PhD/DPhil in physics, biophysics, biochemistry, or related fields; experience in advanced EM methods.
The predicted salary is between 37500 - 37500 £ per year.
Join to apply for the Research Associates in Electron Microscopy Development role at OBN (UK) Ltd. Our teams are aligned across a number of technology and life science challenges as part of our strategic focus, with scientists, technologists and software engineers working together in a multi‑disciplinary and collaborative environment at our state‑of‑the‑art research facility at Harwell in Oxfordshire.
The Multidimensional Imaging (MDI) Challenge team, led by Professor Angus Kirkland, leads pioneering research in advancing electron ptychography, liquid‑phase electron microscopy, electron spectroscopy and diffraction underpinned by a strong fundamental theoretical platform. We currently have a number of Research Associate vacancies to support this Challenge and its projects in the following areas:
- Advanced Methods and Algorithms Applied to Electron Ptychography of Biological Specimens
- Advanced STEM/SEM Acquisition Methods to Study Beam Sensitive Biological Samples
- Imaging Protein Dynamics Using Liquid Phase Electron Microscopy
- Electron Diffraction‑Based Mapping of Molecular Condensates
- Nanoscale Electron Spectroscopic Mapping of Antibiotic Uptake and Resistance Mechanisms
- Technicolour Intracellular Space – Potential Mapping Using 4D STEM
Applications are encouraged from candidates with backgrounds in physics, biophysics, biochemistry, applied mathematics or related disciplines with an interest and experience of advanced EM methods. You will have access to state‑of‑the‑art instrumentation, including a double aberration‑corrected 300kV Cryo (S)TEM, two 300kV conventional Cryo TEMs, three Cryo Dual beam FIBs and a 300kV chromatically corrected TEM for fast in‑situ observations alongside advanced sample preparation and computational facilities.
Whilst these roles are at a postdoctoral researcher level and require candidates to hold a PhD/DPhil (or equivalent), we may consider candidates who are close to completion of their PhD/DPhil qualification, in which case the initial appointment will be made at £37,500 per annum (to be increased on completion of the PhD/DPhil qualification).
Before submitting your application please ensure you read the Job Information Pack for full scope of the projects, related vacancies and to learn about our competitive benefits package. You may choose to apply for more than one role. Please stipulate your vacancy preference on the application form, in line with your skills and experience.
We are dedicated to ensuring every applicant has an equal opportunity to demonstrate their talents, and we are happy to consider adjustments for candidates with specific needs. Closing date: The closing date for applications is 23:59 on Sunday 18th January 2026. Interviews are planned for early February 2026.
If you are interested in working in a forward‑thinking, innovative organisation which is committed to creating an inclusive environment, we look forward to receiving your application. To be considered, please submit a CV and a cover letter explaining why you think you are the right person for this role, including details about your education and work experience.
Research Associates in Electron Microscopy Development (10379) employer: OBN (UK) Ltd
At OBN (UK) Ltd, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and collaborative work culture at our cutting-edge research facility in Harwell, Oxfordshire. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through access to state-of-the-art instrumentation and opportunities to engage in pioneering research alongside leading experts in the field. We foster an inclusive environment that values diverse backgrounds and experiences, ensuring that every team member can thrive and contribute meaningfully to groundbreaking advancements in electron microscopy.
