Post-Doctoral Research Associate

King’s College London’s School of Cancer & Pharmaceutical Sciences is a leading research institution focused on understanding cancer and developing innovative treatments. It combines expertise in cancer biology, drug discovery, and clinical trials to advance patient care. The school integrates multidisciplinary research across cancer therapeutics, pharmaceutical sciences, and clinical practice. Key areas include personalized medicine, immunotherapy, and novel drug delivery systems. With strong industry and clinical partnerships, the school translates cutting-edge research into real-world applications. It also offers world-class education for students and researchers, fostering future leaders in cancer treatment and pharmaceutical science.

The Comprehensive Cancer Centre at King’s College London is a leading research hub dedicated to improving cancer diagnosis, treatment, and care. It integrates cutting-edge research with clinical expertise, focusing on personalized medicine, immunotherapy, and early detection, to enhance outcomes for cancer patients worldwide.

This post is based in Dr. Poland’s advanced microscopy development group, on Guy’s Campus. Our lab specializes in pioneering advanced fluorescence microscopy methods, integrating cutting-edge optical design and computational analysis for a broad range of biological applications. We welcome innovative researchers from all interdisciplinary backgrounds.

We are seeking a highly motivated and talented postdoctoral researcher to join our multidisciplinary team. You will play a crucial role in constructing a custom multiphoton microscopy system equipped with advanced Fast-FLIM detection functionality and temporal focusing. Collaborating closely with biological scientists, you will perform and analyse imaging experiments on 3D cell culture models to explore cellular dynamics and probe the biochemical intricacies of developmental biology.

Building on our established expertise in Fluorescence Lifetime Imaging Microscopy (FLIM), this research project aims to push the boundaries of developmental biology through innovative imaging techniques.

Your responsibilities will include designing and constructing the multiphoton microscopy system, integrating high-powered femtosecond and picosecond laser sources, and utilizing static and dynamic diffractive optical elements for beam shaping and adaptive optics correction. You will assist in designing bespoke optics and incorporate state-of-the-art detector technologies into existing microscope platforms. Collaboration with electronic engineers and leadership of junior researchers are key aspects of the role, as is contributing to internationally competitive research.

Candidates must hold a PhD in Physics and have extensive experience in optical design and microscopy development, with proven expertise in developing bespoke microscopy platforms such as FLIM, confocal, or multiphoton microscopy. Proficiency in using high-powered femtosecond and picosecond laser sources, integrating diffractive optical elements, and adaptive optics is required. Strong programming skills in LabVIEW, Python, MATLAB, or C++ are necessary, along with proficiency in image data processing and analysis. Excellent communication skills are essential, as is the ability to work independently and within an interdisciplinary team. We are looking for someone keen to develop project and team leadership skills and enthusiastic about bridging the physical and life sciences.

There may be additional opportunities to engage in a range of complementary projects within Dr. Poland’s group, allowing you to further explore and expand your research interests and portfolio.

This is a full-time position (35 hours per week) on a fixed-term 1-year contract with the possibility of extension. A competitive salary commensurate with experience will be offered.

If you are a highly motivated, team-oriented, and creative individual ready to tackle original scientific projects, we encourage you to apply.

Advert information