Research associate in Vascular Pharmacology

About the role

We are seeking a talented and motivated post-doctoral scientist with a background in vascular biology and pharmacology, in vitro and in vivo technical experience and a desire to perform laboratory-based translational research.

What you would be doing

• You will be participating in a British Heart Foundation funded research project which aims to support repurposing of an existing clinically validated drug that targets prostaglandin pathways for patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension.
• You will be performing laboratory-based research using a range of model systems. This will include (1) in vitro human primary vascular cell culture systems, (2) human patient and porcine tissue bioassays and (3) in vivo mouse models. You will analyse responses using hormone release bioassays, immunoassay, myography, histology and molecular techniques and microscopy-based approaches.
• You will work constructively and collaboratively as part a supportive research group and contribute to a positive culture. You will develop your technical and professional skills, contribute to smooth running of the laboratory, support students and other members of the teams and collaborate in aligned projects.

What we are looking for

The ideal applicant is motivated, dedicated and passionate about research. They will be expected to drive the project with close support of the group leader, collaborators and other members of the team. In kind, they will be expected to contribute flexibly to new research directions, other activities in the group and the support of students and colleagues.  In addition, the following experience is required as fully detailed in the attached job description:

• A PhD in biomedical science, pharmacology or a related area

*Candidates who have not yet been officially awarded their PhD will be appointed as a Research Assistant within the salary range £45,399 – £48,876 per annum.

• Evidence of an applied research background in vascular, cardiac and/or pulmonary research especially with pulmonary vascular disease
• Technical experience with vascular cell culture, handling human tissue and associated governance, and in vivo rodent models especially vascular models
• It is desirable but not essential for candidates to also have experience with working with cell co-culture, myography, microscopy, immunoassay, qPCR and/or flow cytometry.

What we can offer you

You will join Dr Kirkby’s laboratory which is a close-knit collaborative group with a positive research culture. You will work in close collaboration with Prof Zhao’s laboratory as well other internal and external colleagues. You will be based within the Vascular Science section of Imperial College’s world leading Imperial College National Heart and Lung Institute. Within this setting you will be offered:

• Facilitation and guidance in performing the above research to address translational science whilst developing your skills and experience.
• The opportunity to disseminate findings through internal discussion, publication, presentation at scientific meetings and/or public/patient engagement events.
• Support in your professional development, both in your research experience and in other areas that align with your career aspirations and trajectory.

In addition, within the Imperial College more generally the followed are provided:

• The opportunity to continue your career at a world-leading institution and be part of our mission to continue science for humanity.
• Grow your career: gain access to Imperial’s sector-leading dedicated career support for researchers as well as opportunities for promotion and progression.
• As a member of research staff you have 10 development days to use to develop your skills and explore your career prospects

• Sector-leading salary and remuneration package (including 41 days off a year and generous pension schemes).

• Be part of a diverse, inclusive and collaborative work culture with various staff networks and resources to support your personal and professional wellbeing.

Further information

This is a full-time post (35 hours per week). It requires the holder to be on-site full-time during normal work hours under normal circumstances. It may also require flexible intermittent out of hours working to support sample collection.

This role is for a fixed-term contract for 36 months expected to start on or shortly before 26th November 2026.

If you require any further details about the role, please contact Dr Nicholas Kirkby (n.kirkby@imperial.ac.uk).

Starting salary will be at the bottom of the of the salary scale.

Available documents

Attached documents are available under links. Clicking a document link will initialize its download.

• download: Employee Benefits Booklet.pdf
• download: Research Associate in Vascular Pharmacology JD.pdf