Research Associate in Vascular Pharmacology

Location: Hammersmith Campus – on site only

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.
• 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.
• 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:

• 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.

Based within the Vascular Science section of Imperial College’s world leading Imperial College National Heart and Lung Institute.

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.
• 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 h/w) and fixed-term (36 months) expected to start on or shortly before 26th November 2026.

It may also require flexible intermittent out of hours working to support sample collection.

Further details, please contact Dr Nicholas Kirkby (n.kirkby@imperial.ac.uk).

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

Advert information