Research Associate

Location: South Kensington & White City Campus, London

About the role:

The Department of Bioengineering at Imperial is looking for a Research Associate to join Professor James Moore’s team.

The lymphatic system is crucial for human health and plays a role in the development of many diseases including cancer.  Many cancer surgeries involve removing lymph nodes, which can impede drainage of fluid from the periphery.  This can lead to the development of localized tissue swelling, called lymphoedema, that occurs in the arms of breast cancer patients.  The Moore lab is developing an implantable device to prevent or treat lymphoedema which is now ready for preclinical testing ( lymphamotus.com).  The laboratory is led by a world-leading expert in lymphatic biomechanics who has won international awards for research supervision.

What you would be doing:

You would be involved in testing the ability the implant to release different drugs into surrounding tissues that, together with the implant’s design, encourage reconnection of surgically severed lymphatic vessels.  These tests involve experiments to determine drug concentration in release media & bioactivity with scratch test assays.  The design & testing processes will be documented to regulatory-compliant standards such as ISO13485.

You will also carry out research programmes, undertake project management and/or supervise multi-disciplinary teams.  In addition, you will be expected to submit publications to refereed journals and to help attract external funding.

What we are looking for:

You will have a strong biological, physical or engineering background, including a PhD in a related field. Prior knowledge of the lymphatic system is not required, but you should have knowledge of cell culture techniques, solute concentration quantification techniques, & quality management systems.

What we can offer you:

• The opportunity to improve healthcare for the estimated 300M people worldwide suffering from lymphatic diseases, plus those suffering from other diseases such as cancer.
• 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 & progression.
• Sector-leading salary & remuneration package (including 39 days off a year & generous pension schemes).
• Be part of a diverse, inclusive and collaborative work culture with various staff networks and resources to support your personal & professional wellbeing.

Further Information

This is a full-time post available from 01 January 2026 to 30 June 2027 (18 months) in the first instance with any further extension subject to meeting milestones required to secure further research funding. 

*Please note that successful candidates who have not yet been awarded their PhD will be appointed as a Research Assistant with a salary in the range of £43,003 to £46,297 per annum.

If you require any further details about the role, please contact:

Prof. James Moore, james.moore.jr@imperial.ac.uk

Please note that job descriptions are not exhaustive, and you may be asked to take on additional duties that align with the key responsibilities mentioned above.

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