Senior Research Associate

Job description

The University of Portsmouth is a global employer of choice where exceptional people create, share and apply knowledge that makes a difference.

Experience the pride of being part of a select group – one of only four universities in the south-east of England to achieve a prestigious Gold rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework. Additionally, we proudly rank among the top 140 universities globally in the Times Higher Young University World Rankings.

Ambition, Responsibility and Openness drive our every endeavour. Join our esteemed institution with a proven track record of success, and where dedication to excellence is key. We want people to make their mark in a professional community that truly values people, innovation, and achievement.

The Role:

An exciting opportunity is available for a Postdoctoral Senior Research Associate to join the EPSRC-funded project “RamVis: Spatial Raman Spectroscopy Enhanced with Sub-cellular Visualization Contrast to Monitor Disease-specific Localized Native Biosignatures.”

This project aims to develop a novel label-free Raman framework that integrates Raman spectroscopy with advanced imaging strategies to enable detailed analysis of native biomolecules within cells in three dimensions. The research will focus on uncovering disease-specific molecular processes, with particular relevance to cancer.

You will work in a highly interdisciplinary environment at the intersection of spectroscopy, bioimaging, nanomaterials, and data science, contributing to the development of next-generation tools for disease understanding, diagnostics, and drug response analysis.

You will be part of the EPSRC-funded RamVis project within the School of Medicine, Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences (SMPBS) at the University of Portsmouth, United Kingdom. The School hosts a dynamic, multidisciplinary research community spanning biomedical sciences, analytical chemistry, and health technologies, with strong links to clinical and industrial partners. We offer a supportive, inclusive environment with access to state-of-the-art facilities, fostering collaboration and innovation.

Whilst there is a need to be in Portsmouth a few days a week, hybrid working is available for this role. 

The interviews are currently anticipated to be held on 04/06/2026 online.

This appointment is a fixed-term contract for 30 months.

In line with funding conditions of the grant, we would ideally like the successful candidate to start by 1 October 2026.

If you have any queries regarding this position, please contact Dr Priyanka Dey – priyanka.dey@port.ac.uk

Discover the advantages of joining our university. We offer a range of attractive benefits and opportunities to enhance your work experience:

• Competitive salary, including incremental progression within your scale.
• Generous pension scheme.
• Generous leave entitlement of 32–35 days a year, plus bank holidays, and an additional Christmas closure.
• Family-friendly policies supporting flexible working.
• Staff discounts and loyalty schemes.
• Staff car parking and discounted public travel.
• Excellent training and development opportunities.
• Staff wellbeing programmes.
• Recreation facilities, including discounted gym membership, food on campus schemes, use of the Library and staff social activities.
• Discounted learning.
• Start-up business mentoring from expert entrepreneurs via our Entrepreneurs in Residence programme.
• The perks don’t stop there – click ‘apply’ for further information on My Reward and Benefits

UKVI Statement
Prior to submitting your application, kindly ensure that you can either demonstrate or acquire the necessary right to work in the UK. If you currently do not possess the right to work in the UK, please be aware that our offer of employment is conditional upon you obtaining it.

ED&I Statement:
We are committed to upholding the University’s values of being ambitious, open and responsible, in an inclusive working environment that promotes dignity and respect.

Please note that this vacancy may be closed earlier than advertised, so early applications are advised.