Research Associate

About us

The CRUK Scotland Institute where the lab is based is a world leading cancer research institute, situated in the vibrant city of Glasgow in Scotland and hosting approximately 60 postdoctoral researcher scientists at any one time. It has an excellent reputation for fundamental cancer research, including world-class metabolism studies and renowned in vivo modelling of tumour growth and metastasis.

Project outline

The majority of cancers bear mutations of the mitochondrial genome. Our recent work has identified recurrence and selection of these mutations in tumours (Gorelick et al., 2021, Nature Metabolism) and forthcoming papers from our lab show that a key impact of these mutations is altered tumour metabolism, driving divergent tumour immune microenvironments that mediate susceptibility to treatment (Mahmood et al., 2024, Nature Cancer). In the Mitochondrial Oncogenetics Lab at CRUK SI, we have developed and applied advanced mitochondrial genome engineering techniques to create models of mitochondrial mutant cancer that we study in a variety of contexts.

We aim to develop a broad understanding of the impact mtDNA mutations exert within and between tissue lineages, and this project will define the impact of recurrent mtDNA mutations on cancer metabolism, tumour growth and the immune microenvironment.

The successful applicant will be highly enthusiastic, driven to succeed and already have or soon be completing a PhD in mitochondrial biology, cancer or immunology. Experience of any of the following: single cell approaches, cancer genomics, in vivo cancer modelling and/or quantitative approaches to metabolic science are desirable but not essential.

Gorelick AN, et al., 2021, Respiratory complex and tissue lineage drive recurrent mutations in tumour mtDNA. Nature Metabolism. 3:558-570.

Kim M, et al., 2022, Mitochondrial DNA is a major source of driver mutations in cancer. Trends in Cancer. 8:1046-1059.

Mahmood et al., 2024, Mitochondrial DNA mutations drive aerobic glycolysis to enhance checkpoint blockade response in melanoma. Nature Cancer. 5: 659-672.

For informal enquiries, please email payam.gammage@glasgow.ac.uk

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

Our overarching research ethos at the Institute is about excellence, honesty, openness, accountability and integrity. 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 (pro-rata)
• Defined Contribution pension scheme
• Life Insurance scheme
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Season ticket loan
• Additional maternity pay at 6 month’s full pay (subject to service)
• Shared parental leave
• Cycle to work scheme that could save you 26-40% on a bike and accessories.
• Access to Employee benefit schemes with discounts on supermarkets, cinema, travel and much more.
• On-site secure parking

All applications must be made via the 'Apply' button.

Closing Date:  7^th February 2025

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