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- Tasks: Design and optimise microfluidic platforms for early cancer detection using innovative biosensing technology.
- Company: Join UCL's cutting-edge research team in a multi-centre project focused on cancer diagnostics.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, opportunity for impactful research, and collaboration with leading experts.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in cancer detection while advancing your career in a dynamic research environment.
- Qualifications: PhD in relevant field and strong background in microfluidics and multidisciplinary research.
- Other info: Exciting opportunity to work on a €3M Horizon Europe project with excellent career growth potential.
The predicted salary is between 39000 - 42000 £ per year.
We are seeking to appoint a Postdoctoral Researcher in Microfluidics Engineering for Cancer Diagnostics to contribute to the multi-centre project "ULYSSES - Ultrasensitive Luminescence-based Yeast Sensors for Early Cancer Detection". This is a 3M€, highly innovative Horizon Europe Pathfinder project aimed at developing a next-generation, yeast-based biosensing platform for the early detection of breast and prostate cancer through urine analysis.
Responsibilities
- Design, fabricate, optimise and validate a microfluidic platform integrating engineered yeast-based biosensors for urine samples in microplate readers.
- Use computational tools for computer-aided design and computational fluid dynamics simulations; employ microfabrication techniques; develop bespoke hardware for liquid handling; perform analytical characterisation.
- Contribute to the integration of the platform with a diagnostic interface incorporating machine-learning models for data interpretation.
Work under the supervision of Dr Guido Bolognesi in the Department of Chemistry at UCL (http://particlemicrofluidics.com/ucl).
Funding, duration and start
The post is funded for up to 36 months, with a start date of 1st May 2026 or shortly thereafter.
Appointment and salary
Please note, appointment at Grade 7 is dependent upon having been awarded a PhD; if this is not the case, initial appointment will be at Research Assistant Grade 6B (salary £39,148 to £41,833 per annum, including London Allowance of £5,197 p.a.) with payment at Grade 7 being backdated to the date of final submission of the PhD thesis.
Qualifications and experience
- You will have a PhD degree (or will have submitted your thesis prior to taking up the position) in a field related to microtechnology, such as bioengineering, chemical engineering, chemistry, biomedical engineering, mechanical engineering, applied physics, electrical engineering, or a closely related discipline.
- A strong background in microfluidics is essential.
- Proven expertise in more than one of the following areas: microfabrication, lab-on-a-chip technologies, computer-aided design, computational fluid dynamics, biosensing, system integration and instrumentation and software development.
- You will have experience with multidisciplinary research and of working effectively as part of a research team. Experience in undertaking proof-of-concept studies and collaborative experiments is essential.
- A strong publication track record is required.
Application
A full job description and Person Specification can be accessed by clicking 'Apply'. To apply for the vacancy please click on the 'Apply' button below. With your application, please ensure you state why you are interested in the post, demonstrate how you meet the person specification criteria, a CV and list of publications. Any queries on the application process can be directed to hr.chem(at)ucl.ac.uk, as we wish to encourage online applications. CLOSING DATE for APPLICATIONS is 15 February 2026.
Research Fellow in Microfluidic Engineering for Cancer Diagnostics employer: UCL
Contact Detail:
UCL Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Fellow in Microfluidic Engineering for Cancer Diagnostics
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the field of microfluidics and cancer diagnostics. Attend relevant conferences or webinars, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself to potential collaborators or employers.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your skills! Create a portfolio that highlights your projects related to microfabrication and biosensing. This can be a great conversation starter during interviews and helps us see your practical experience.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for technical interviews! Brush up on your knowledge of computational fluid dynamics and lab-on-a-chip technologies. We want to see how you think through problems, so practice explaining your thought process clearly.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Make sure to tailor your application to highlight your relevant experience and why you’re excited about the ULYSSES project.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Fellow in Microfluidic Engineering for Cancer Diagnostics
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When you're writing your application, let us know why you're excited about this role! Share your enthusiasm for microfluidics and cancer diagnostics, and how you see yourself contributing to the ULYSSES project.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in microtechnology and microfluidics. We want to see your skills in action, so include specific projects or research that align with the job description.
Address the Criteria: In your application, clearly demonstrate how you meet the person specification criteria. Use examples from your past work to show us your expertise in areas like microfabrication and biosensing.
Apply Online: Don't forget to apply through our website! It's the easiest way for us to receive your application. Make sure to submit all required documents, including your CV and a list of publications, before the closing date.
How to prepare for a job interview at UCL
✨Know Your Microfluidics
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of microfluidics and related technologies. Be ready to discuss your previous projects and how they relate to the role, especially any experience with lab-on-a-chip technologies or biosensing.
✨Showcase Your Team Spirit
Since this role involves working as part of a multidisciplinary team, be prepared to share examples of how you've collaborated in the past. Highlight your ability to communicate effectively and contribute to group projects.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect some technical questions related to computer-aided design and computational fluid dynamics. Brush up on these topics and think about how you can apply your skills to the specific challenges mentioned in the job description.
✨Demonstrate Your Passion for Cancer Diagnostics
Express your enthusiasm for cancer diagnostics and the innovative work being done in this field. Share why this project excites you and how your background aligns with the goals of the ULYSSES project.
