Postdoctoral Research Scientist

Prof Vicky Cowling - Gene Regulation

RNA cap regulation in brain cancers

Salary: from £32,868 to £42,717 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 where the lab is based is a world leading cancer research institute, situated in the vibrant city of Glasgow in Scotland and hosting approximately 60 postdoctoral researcher scientists at any one time. It has an excellent reputation for fundamental cancer research, including world-class metabolism studies and renowned in vivo modelling of tumour growth and metastasis.

Project outline

We are looking for a postdoctoral researcher to join us in the Cowling lab to investigate RNA cap regulation in brain cancers. How are the RNA capping enzymes regulated in neurons and in response to oncogenic pathways in glioblastoma cells? What is the impact of these mechanisms on gene regulation, cell function and differentiation? How does RNA cap regulation influence tumour formation and response to therapies?  These experiments will be supported within the expertise of the lab and by access to the latest advanced technologies, including mass spectrometry, biochemistry, molecular biology, imaging, sequencing/bioinformatics and tissue culture. Emerging hypotheses will be investigated in mouse models. Essential to the project is collaboration with the brain cancer labs in the Cancer Research Scotland Centre in Glasgow and Edinburgh (Birch, Chalmers, Pollard). Our aim is to work together to develop therapeutic approaches for treating brain cancers. 

The successful applicant will require a PhD in gene regulation, signalling research and/or neurons/brain cancers. Applications are welcomed from current PhD students, close to completing their degree. Previous experience in some of the areas mentioned above is advantageous but training in new areas of research is supported and encouraged. Mouse models will form an important part of the project.

For informal enquiries please email [email protected] .

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

Our overarching research ethos at the Institute is about excellence, honesty, openness, accountability and integrity. The diversity of our staff and students is also what makes the Institute such a vibrant place to work and advance discoveries in cancer research. Family friendly policies, our collaborative ethos, a focus on good mental health and well-being and opportunities for all help to create an enjoyable and inclusive workplace where your voice matters.

The Institute is also committed to increasing the number of female scientists at the postdoc level and beyond and encourages female applicants to apply. We have recently introduced a highly attractive maternity policy which provides 12-18 months support and funding for postdocs wishing to take time off to spend with their children amongst other family friendly policies

Employee Benefits

• Competitive salary
• 40.5 days annual leave including bank holidays (pro-rata)
• Defined Contribution pension scheme
• Life Insurance scheme
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Season ticket loan
• Additional maternity pay at 6 month’s full pay (subject to service)
• Shared parental leave
• Cycle to work scheme that could save you 26-40% on a bike and accessories.
• Access to Employee benefit schemes with discounts on supermarkets, cinema, travel and much more.
• On-site secure parking

All applications must be made via our website by clicking on the 'Apply' button above.

Closing Date: 9 June 2024 but we will contact promising candidates on a rolling basis, so please apply as soon as you are ready.