About us

The CRUK Scotland Institute is a cancer research institute, situated in Glasgow with approximately 250 researchers split across 30 research groups consisting of PIs, postdoctoral scientists, PhD students and scientific officers. It is one of Europe's leading cancer research centres, supporting cutting-edge work into the molecular mechanisms of cancer development. As well as core support from Cancer Research UK, the Institute also receives an additional third of its total income from external grants and industry collaborations. It has an excellent reputation for fundamental cancer research, including world-class metabolism studies and renowned in vivo modelling of tumour growth and metastasis.

Position Overview

We are seeking a collaborative, organised and scientifically driven Senior Scientific Officer to support innovative cancer research within a dynamic laboratory environment.

This hands-on role combines laboratory coordination with experimental research, supporting studies into how cell state, signalling networks and the cellular microenvironment influence disease development and progression. Working closely with researchers and operational colleagues, you will contribute to the development and application of advanced experimental models, including iPSC-based organoids, while helping ensure the smooth running of the laboratory.

The role forms part of a research programme led by Dr Ralitsa Madsen and funded through a prestigious UKRI Future Leaders Fellowship, providing an exciting opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research investigating how oncogenic signalling drives disease in different cellular contexts.

We're looking for someone who enjoys enabling great science, takes pride in maintaining high standards, and thrives in a collaborative environment. We work as a team, share knowledge openly and are committed to delivering robust, reproducible research through continuous learning and constructive feedback.

What You'll Be Doing

Supporting research into cell-state control of oncogenic signalling and disease biology.
Developing and applying advanced cell culture and iPSC-based organoid models.
Contributing to the development and optimisation of experimental assays and workflows.
Generating high-quality, reproducible scientific data using molecular, cellular and single-cell approaches.
Coordinating laboratory operations, including inventories, ordering and shared resources.
Developing, documenting and continuously improving laboratory procedures and standard operating procedures.
Training and supporting new laboratory members.
Acting as a key liaison between researchers, laboratory management and operational teams to support the delivery of high-quality research.

Candidate Profile

Essential

Degree, postgraduate qualification or equivalent experience in Molecular Biology, Biomedical Sciences, Biochemistry or a related discipline.
Experience working with advanced cell culture models.
Strong knowledge of molecular biology and biochemistry techniques.
Ability to independently perform and optimise experimental work with a high level of accuracy, attention to detail and reproducibility.
Experience developing and maintaining laboratory protocols, procedures and documentation.
Strong organisational skills, with the ability to prioritise competing demands and coordinate laboratory activities effectively.
Excellent communication and collaborative working skills.
Enthusiasm for learning and applying new techniques and technologies.
Proficiency in Microsoft 365 applications and electronic laboratory record-keeping systems.

Desirable

Experience of antibiotic-free cell culture.
Experience working with human organoid models.
Experience with single-cell technologies, including single-cell RNA sequencing or perturbation screening.
Experience with CyTOF or other high-dimensional cellular analysis platforms.
Familiarity with R and/or Python for scientific data analysis.
Experience training, mentoring or onboarding laboratory staff, students or researchers.

For informal enquiries, please email Dr Ralitsa Madsen

(ralitsa.madsen@glasgow.ac.uk )

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

Our vision is to build and maintain a diverse and inclusive research culture based on our shared values of Innovate, Respect, Integrity, Teamwork and Excellence. These values, which underpin our behaviours and everything we do, allow all our people to realise their full potential. The diversity of our staff and students is also what makes the Institute such a vibrant place to work and advance discoveries in cancer research. Family friendly policies, our collaborative ethos, a focus on good mental health and well-being and opportunities for all help to create an enjoyable and inclusive workplace where your voice matters.

Employee Benefits

Competitive salary
40.5 days annual leave including bank holidays (FTE)
Defined contribution pension scheme
Free life assurance scheme
Employee Assistance Programme
Interest free season ticket loans
Additional maternity pay for 6 months at full salary
Shared parental leave including up to 6 weeks paid at full salary
Cycle to work scheme saving tax and NI on cycle purchase and spreading repayments over up to 12 months
Access to employee benefit schemes with discounts on supermarkets, cinema, travel and much more.
On-site secure parking

All applications must be made via our website:

https://www.crukscotlandinstitute.ac.uk/careers/current-vacancies/

Closing Date : 6th of December 2026, but we may contact promising candidates on a rolling basis, so please apply as soon as you are ready.

Senior Scientific Officer - Dr Ralitsa Madsen