Research Assistant

Vacancy terms: Fixed term contract for 24 months

Hours per week: 37.5

About the role

We are seeking a Research Assistant to join the INTREPID programme (IN vitro TumouR Explant models for evaluating cancer complexity and Patient Diversity), hosted within the Patient-Derived Explant Facility in the Division of Cancer Sciences. This exciting initiative, funded by MRC, Wellcome Trust, and Innovate UK, aims to advance live human tumour culture methodologies and establish sustainable models for cancer research across academia and industry. 

In this role, you will work closely with Principal Investigators and the Explant Facility Manager to deliver key research objectives. Your responsibilities will include coordinating patient sample collections with biobank teams, performing explant culture and multi-immunofluorescence analysis, supporting data interpretation and reporting, and ensuring compliance with GCLP standards. You will also contribute to maintaining laboratory operations and assist in training and supervising students within the facility.

About you

You will hold an Honours degree or have equivalent relevant experience, with practical knowledge of applying research skills and techniques to deliver high-quality outputs. Experience in clinical study support within a university environment and a strong understanding of regulatory requirements, including the Human Tissue Act, are essential. You will also demonstrate excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, strong communication abilities, and the capacity to prioritise tasks effectively.

Desirable attributes include a Master’s qualification or current PhD study, as well as experience with immunostaining, histology, image analysis, and R programming. Above all, you will be a collaborative team player with enthusiasm for cancer research and a commitment to continuous professional development. At the University of Leicester, we are proud to be an inclusive, inspiring, and impactful community. We value diversity and encourage applications from all backgrounds.

Additional information

Informal enquiries are welcome and should be made to Prof Catrin Pritchard on cap8@leicester.ac.uk

As part of the University’s ongoing commitment to professional development, this role will also be considered on a seconded basis for existing staff members. Please ensure this is discussed with your line manager prior to applying.

The University of Leicester has been changing the world, and changing people’s lives, for 100 years. When you join us, you’ll become part of a community of Citizens of Change, which includes not only our staff and our current students but also thousands of Leicester graduates around the world. 

As a diverse and forward-thinking employer, we embed the principles of equity, diversity and inclusion into everything we do. That includes not just our core missions of teaching and research, but also our support for staff, students and our local community through our values of Inspiring, Impactful and Inclusive.

We’re committed to the wellbeing of all our staff and to the sustainability of our environment, on our campus and beyond. We offer a competitive salary package, excellent pension scheme and a generous annual leave allowance, along with opportunities to develop your career in a supportive and collaborative environment.

Advert closes midnight on: 04 February 2026

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