Postdoctoral Research Associate

University of Reading; Reading; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading UK university in Reading is seeking a researcher with a PhD in cardiovascular biology to study cellular communication and thrombus formation. The role involves designing experimental workflows, utilizing advanced microscopy techniques, and collaborating within a multidisciplinary team. Exceptional candidates will have a background in fluorescence microscopy and effective communication skills. Applications for flexible working arrangements are welcomed.

Qualifications

• Expected to have a PhD by the start of the position.
• Experience with fluorescence microscopy to study cellular function.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary team.

Responsibilities

• Design and optimize experimental workflows for intercellular signaling studies.
• Utilize advanced microscopy for cell signaling dynamics research.
• Collaborate with a second PDRA on integrating experimental and modeling work.

Skills

Fluorescence microscopy

Multi-disciplinary teamwork

Cellular function analysis

Education

PhD in cardiovascular biology or related field

Job description

Overview

Full-time, Fixed Term 1/11/2025 to 31/7/2028. Closing date 23:59 28 September 2025.

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death worldwide, and platelets are central in the development of this pathology. Platelet activation is a highly dynamic process underpinned by complex signalling events, culminating in thrombus formation. Our project will map key signalling events that govern platelet and megakaryocyte cell communication and coordination. We will employ a range of approaches including advanced microscopy (confocal and intravital), models of thrombus formation (ex vivo and in vivo), and flow cytometry. Our experimental programme is designed to interface and synergise with simultaneous theoretical developments of computational models and novel methods for analysing system purposes.

Responsibilities

• Design, implement and optimise experimental workflows to study intercellular signalling between megakaryocytes and platelets.
• Utilise advanced microscopy to plan and develop assays for studying cell signalling dynamics (e.g., Ca2+ signalling) and contribute to the analysis of results.
• Apply established in vivo approaches to model thrombus formation under physiologically relevant conditions.
• Collaborate with a second PDRA responsible for theoretical and computational developments to integrate experimental and modelling work.
• Contribute to the communication of project activities within the team and support outreach and dissemination strategies (e.g., video blogs and academic workshops).
• Work in 2D, 3D, and 4D experimental contexts and engage in increasing the complexity of interactions and the role of control mechanisms.
• Act as a central link for project staff coordination and collaboration across a multidisciplinary environment.

Qualifications

• PhD in cardiovascular biology or a related field, or expected to hold by the start of the position.
• Experience with fluorescence microscopy to study cellular function.
• Ability to work effectively in a multi-disciplinary team.
• Publication record and experience presenting at conferences.
• Experience of, or willingness to learn, intravital microscopy to study thrombus formation in vivo.

Contact

Contact Name: Dr Kirk Taylor
Contact Job Title: Lecturer in Biomedical Sciences
Contact Email address: [e-mail]

Alternative Contact Name: Dr Alex Bye
Alternative Contact Job Title: Lecturer in Pharmacy
Alternative Contact Email address: [e-mail]

Interviews

Interviews will be held: 7 October 2025

Equality and Inclusion

The University is committed to having a diverse and inclusive workforce, supports the gender equality Athena SWAN Charter and the Race Equality Charter, and champions LGBT+ equality. We are a Disability Confident Employer (Level 2). Applications for job-share, part-time and flexible working arrangements are welcomed and will be considered in line with business needs.