Research Associate in Radiotherapy

The University of Manchester - Biology, Medicine Health - School of Medical Sciences - Division of Cardiovascular Sciences

Location: Manchester

Salary: £37,694 to £41,064 per annum dependent on relevant experience

Hours: Full Time

Contract Type: Fixed-Term/Contract

Placed On: 22nd August 2025

Closes: 18th September 2025

Job Ref: BMH-029646

Location: Oxford Road

Hours Per Week: Full Time (1 FTE)

Contract Duration: Fixed term until 31.10.2026

This is an exciting opportunity for a Post-Doctoral Research Associate to initiate research aimed at providing mechanistic understanding of cardiovascular toxicity induced by radiotherapy. We have previously shown that in lung cancer patients, the extent of radiation dose to specific heart regions is associated with worse survival and morbidity. Using preclinical models, the post holder will investigate whether heart tolerance is influenced by predisposition to cardiovascular disease and/or pre-existing cardiovascular pathology. Understanding what governs risk of early morbidity gives the opportunity for interventions to ameliorate cardiac toxicity. This project aims to investigate the mechanistic impact of radiotherapy on cardiovascular function using a combination of in vitro and in vivo studies, using cellular and mouse models of hypertension and/or diabetes. A combination of clinically relevant non-invasive imaging approaches to monitor myocardial function and pathology will be implemented alongside ex vivo tissue analyses to decipher potential mechanisms impacting heart tolerance and potential intervention strategies.

We are looking for an enthusiastic and motivated individual from a biological or medical sciences background with experience of preclinical cardiovascular research. The post holder will have the ability to work both independently and collaboratively, will have excellent communication and organisational skills and a proven track record of delivering impactful research. A publication record in peer-reviewed journals would be advantageous.

The post holder will be working alongside a dynamic team of fundamental science and clinical researchers within the CRUK RadNet Manchester team in partnership with The Christie NHS Foundation Trust and the Division of Cardiovascular Sciences. CRUK RadNet Manchester is an ambitious translational radiation oncology programme that challenges diverse patient characteristics to achieve individualised physical and biological targeting based on real-time outcomes and works towards a deep mechanistic understanding of immune response, comorbidity and genomics. The post will be based on the main University Campus. This cross-disciplinary collaboration particularly draws on the expertise of researchers in the Division of Cardiovascular Sciences whose research goal is to translate our understanding of the cellular, molecular and genetic processes underlying cardiovascular disease into improved clinical treatments and patient care.

As an equal opportunities employer we support an inclusive working environment and welcome applicants from all sections of the community regardless of age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender expression, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation and transgender status. All appointments are made on merit.

Our University is positive about flexible working – you can find out more here.

Hybrid working arrangements may be considered.

Enquiries about the vacancy, shortlisting and interviews: Name: Professor Kaye Williams, Email: kaye.williams@manchester.ac.uk