University of Edinburgh
Research Assistant
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Research Assistant
Mass Spectrometry Research Assistant
Grade UE06: £34,610 - £39,906 per annum CMVM / School of Genetics and Cancer Full-time (35 hours per week, fixed-term until 31st December 2027)
The Opportunity
The Institute of Genetics and Cancer at the University of Edinburgh is seeking a motivated and highly organised Mass Spectrometry Research Assistant to support cutting-edge cancer research.
The role involves contributing to projects investigating brain tumour biology, treatment resistance, and therapeutic vulnerabilities, with a proteomics-based focus. As part of the IGC Mass Spectrometry facility, you will:
- Collaborate with researchers across multiple IGC laboratories
- Support sample preparation, proteomic workflows, data analysis, and laboratory management
- Develop specialist expertise in mass spectrometry while ensuring reproducibility and data quality
Suitable for scientists with experience in molecular biology, biochemistry, proteomics, or analytical techniques, this role offers training and professional growth in a collaborative research environment.
The IGC is home to 600+ scientists, students, and staff with access to advanced technologies, including genomics, genome editing, and disease-model platforms. The culture emphasises collaboration, mentorship, reproducibility, and career development.
Enquiries: Informal discussions can be directed to:
- Vincenzo D’Angiolella – vdangio@ed.ac.uk
- Alex Von Kriegsheim – Alex.VonKriegsheim@ed.ac.uk
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Key Responsibilities
The post holder will:
- Support mass spectrometry-based proteomics projects across IGC laboratories
- Consult on experimental design to ensure optimal data generation
- Prepare biological samples for proteomic analysis, including:
- Protein extraction, quantification, digestion
- Peptide clean-up and quality-control steps
- Use and adapt bioinformatic pipelines for data analysis, quantification, and interpretation
- Support research on brain tumour biology, treatment response, and therapeutic resistance mechanisms
- Maintain accurate experimental records, sample inventories, and data-management systems
- Contribute to reproducible and standardised workflows across projects and research groups
- Assist with lab organisation, reagent preparation, ordering, and stock management
Skills & Attributes for Success
Applicants should demonstrate:
- Strong motivation to apply mass spectrometry, proteomics, and molecular biology techniques to cancer research
- Experience in:
- Biochemistry
- Molecular biology
- Analytical laboratory work or related techniques
- Familiarity with protein-based workflows, such as:
- Protein extraction
- Gel electrophoresis
- Western blotting
- Immunoprecipitation
- Skills in:
- Scientific software and data-handling tools
- Quantitative analysis packages
- Desirable (but not essential):
- Prior experience in mass spectrometry or proteomics
- Hands-on experience with LC-MS/MS workflows or facility-based research support
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For full details: View the Job Description
How to Apply
Submit the following:
- CV
- One-page cover letter, highlighting relevant experience
Why Join Us?
As a valued member of our team, you’ll enjoy:
- A competitive salary
- An exciting, creative, and collaborative research environment
- Participation in a diverse international community
- Comprehensive staff benefits, including:
- Generous annual leave
- Defined benefits pension scheme
- Staff discounts
- Flexible work options
- Family-friendly policies
- View benefits here and use the reward calculator here.
Championing Equality, Diversity & Inclusion
The University of Edinburgh is committed to:
- Gender equality (Silver Athena SWAN award holder)
- Race equality (Race Equality Charter member)
- LGBT equality (Stonewall Scotland Diversity Champions)
All appointments require confirmation of the right to work in the UK. Unfortunately, this post does not accept visa sponsorship.
Key Dates
- Closing date: 1st July 2026 (11:59pm UK time)
- Interviews: Scheduled one week post-closing, subject to panel/availability
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