At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a pioneering team to advance electron microscopy techniques and tackle real-world challenges.
- Company: Rosalind Franklin Institute, a cutting-edge technology institute transforming healthcare.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, inclusive environment, and access to state-of-the-art research facilities.
- Other info: Exciting career growth opportunities in a dynamic, multi-disciplinary environment.
- Why this job: Make a significant impact in scientific research while collaborating with top experts.
- Qualifications: PhD or nearing completion in physics, biophysics, biochemistry, or related fields.
The predicted salary is between 38500 - 54000 £ per year.
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. 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 - Fixed Term
- Advanced STEM/SEM Acquisition Methods to Study Beam Sensitive Biological Samples - Fixed Term
- Electron Diffraction-Based Mapping of Molecular Condensates - Fixed Term
- Nanoscale Electron Spectroscopic Mapping of Antibiotic Uptake and Resistance Mechanisms - Fixed Term
Projects Keywords: Inverse Problems, Computational Imaging, Electron Spectroscopy, Antimicrobial Resistance, Liquid Phase EM, 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.
For informal enquiries, please contact us. 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.
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. Please contact us to discuss your requirements confidentially.
Closing date: The closing date for applications is 23:59 on Sunday 18th January 2026. Interviews are planned for early February 2026.
Applicants should refer to our Candidate Privacy Policy.
Area: Scientific
Location: Harwell Campus, Oxfordshire
Type of Post: Full Time (37.5 hrs per week)
Period of appointment: Fixed-Term Contracts (2 or 3 Years)
Salary: From £38,500 per annum (depending on skills and experience)
Closing Date: 18/01/2026
Ref No: 10379
Research Associates in Electron Microscopy Development (10379) in London employer: Rosalind Franklin Institute
The Rosalind Franklin Institute offers an exceptional work environment for Research Associates in Electron Microscopy Development, situated at the cutting-edge Harwell Campus in Oxfordshire. With a strong commitment to innovation and collaboration, employees benefit from access to state-of-the-art facilities and a supportive culture that fosters professional growth and inclusivity. Join a team dedicated to advancing healthcare technologies while enjoying competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits package.
Contact Details:
Rosalind Franklin Institute Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Associates in Electron Microscopy Development (10379) in London
✨Get Involved in Research Communities
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We think you need these skills to ace Research Associates in Electron Microscopy Development (10379) in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Research Experience:When applying for a full-time role in scientific research, make sure to emphasise your research experience prominently in your CV. Share specific projects you’ve worked on, the methodologies you used, and any significant findings. If you’ve published papers or presented at conferences, definitely include that too – it shows you’re on it in the academic world!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Research Area:Your cover letter should reflect your passion for the specific area of research at Rosalind Franklin Institute. Mention relevant experiences that align with the organisation’s goals or projects. This shows that you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in the position – plus, it helps us see how you’d fit into the team dynamics.
Showcase Your Data Analysis Skills:In scientific research, data analysis skills are a big deal! Make sure to detail any relevant analytical tools or software you’re familiar with, like R, Python, or statistical packages. Employers are keen to know you can handle the data-heavy elements of the role, so add specific examples where you’ve used these skills effectively.
Discuss Your Future Research Goals:In your motivation section, it’s a great idea to talk about your future research goals and how they align with the work being done at Rosalind Franklin Institute. This shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but rather a chance to contribute meaningfully to the field. We love to see applicants who are forward-thinking and enthusiastic about their research journey!
How to prepare for a job interview at Rosalind Franklin Institute
✨Showcase Your Research Skills
In scientific research, it’s crucial to demonstrate your ability to design and conduct experiments. Come armed with examples of past projects where you've developed hypotheses, collected data, and analysed results. Be ready to discuss any specific methodologies or tools you’ve used, like PCR techniques or statistical software.
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Expect some technical questions specific to your field. Make sure you're up to speed with recent advancements in scientific research related to the role at Rosalind Franklin Institute. Brush up on concepts relevant to their projects and be prepared to discuss how you would approach a specific research problem or challenge they might face.
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If you've authored or co-authored any papers, be prepared to discuss them! Highlighting your contributions to published research can really set you apart. It shows not only your expertise but also your ability to communicate complex ideas clearly, which is key in scientific research roles.
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In full-time roles, collaboration is often at the heart of scientific research. Prepare examples that show how you've successfully worked in teams, dealt with conflicts, or contributed to group projects. We want to know how you can work effectively with the team at Rosalind Franklin Institute to drive research projects forward.