Gatsiou Lab: Fully Funded Postgraduate Researcher at Lancaster University, UK

Posted on December 1st, 2025

The Role
This is a full-time role for a Postgraduate Researcher at Lancaster University, fully funded for 4 years by the UK Research & Innovation's Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (salary according to the UK 2026/2027 rates). The role involves conducting innovative and original research, analyzing data, writing reports, collaborating with lab members on research projects, and presenting research in conferences/meetings.

The Project
The project is generously, externally co-funded by Welcome Trust and the British Heart Foundation (BHF) to facilitate ambitious research plans and offer unrestricted access of the successful candidate to state-of-the-art training while also enjoying the support of three high achieving research labs. This project offers the opportunity to make groundbreaking discoveries in biosciences by exploring the interface between recently Nobel Prize-recognised discoveries in RNA biology and innate immunity, from a unique perspective. The successful candidate will gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge technologies, including advanced biomolecular dynamics enhanced by computational methods and artificial intelligence, developing our understanding of the role of RNA underpinning health which when compromised may lead to incurable disease.

The Training and Support
You will receive comprehensive support and training in both established and emerging research techniques, ensuring that you are future-proofed for the evolving landscape of biomedical research in both academia and industry. You will be guided to establish novel methods that will allow us to explore fundamental biological questions from new angles. Your work will have direct impact to inflammatory diseases and potential for high-impact applications in heart disease, cancer, and other immune-associated human diseases, informing precision medicine therapeutics. Your intrinsic interest on pursuing basic research in biosciences will be complemented by a tailored career development plan, access and close collaboration of Dr Aikaterini Gatsiou’s and Dr. Leonie Unterholzner’s laboratories at the Lancaster University’s Faculty of Health and Medicine as well as Professor Helen Walden's laboratory at Glasgow University, all with a strong track record and commitment to mentoring postgraduate researchers. Postgraduate Researchers are expected to contribute to the academic community through publications, presentations and participation in seminars and conferences. The successful candidate will receive a tailored career development support and will undergo a comprehensive training programme equipping them for accessing industry and academic research positions.

The Eligibility Criteria and Qualifications

  • Research skills, data analysis, and report writing abilities
  • Strong analytical and critical thinking skills
  • Excellent communication and presentation skills
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a research team
  • Knowledge of research methodologies along the lines of biochemistry, biophysics, bioimaging and/or immunology.
  • Knowledge of academic writing standards (i.e previously undertaken a research project as part of undergraduate or postgraduate training).
  • Candidate should have or be about to have relevant Bachelor's and Master's degrees in a related field, both awarded (or are about to be) equivalent to first or second upper class honours.
  • Evidence of additional research experience; research placements/research assistantships or publications
  • It is desirable but not essential: Congress abstracts/presentations, academic prizes, studentships/scholarships won.
  • Interest in pursuing a research career in biosciences (academia or industry) with a focus on understanding organismal health and contribute to a sustainable world.

The Company
Lancaster University is a leading higher education and research institution in north-west England. We take pride in our campuses and activities across the world (Europe, Asia, Africa), focusing on delivering innovative solutions to global challenges for a sustainable future. Our commitment to positive change is reflected in our exceptionally high rankings and diverse community of staff and students from over 180 countries. Particularly, we rank consistently among the top 10 UK Universities and the top 3 for Biomedical Sciences in the UK. The successful candidate will join the Department of Biomedical & Life Sciences, which has recognised expertise in immunity, cancer research, and molecular genetics. The Department is supported by state-of-the-art research facilities and recently underwent a multi-million pounds infrastructure investment. Very recently, the Department has been awarded with an over a million funding to lead the establishment of the UK's first platform for Visualizing Biomolecular Dynamics. The successful candidate will enjoy this unique and exciting opportunity to join this huge effort that brings together more than 20 different laboratories. The Department works closely with Lancaster’s world-leading Data Science Institute, a key partner of the World Health Organization, utilizing artificial intelligence and machine learning tools for data analysis and biomolecular research.

The City
Lancaster is a historic city in the North West of the UK, blending rich heritage with a vibrant student life. Home to the iconic Lancaster Castle and two prestigious universities, it offers direct access to both the Lake District and the Yorkshire Dales- two world-renowned National Parks for their outstanding natural beauty and outdoor activities. Additionally, the City of Lancaster boasts award-winning sandy beaches along its coastline, offering excellent opportunities for water-based activities. With easy access to Manchester Airport and regular direct train services to London, Lancaster is well-connected, while also offering the charm of independent cafes, cultural festivals, and scenic canal walks. Combining history, nature, and modern living, Lancaster provides a unique and welcoming environment.

The Contact and Application Process
Please contact Dr Aikaterini Gatsiou
([email protected]) asap and preferably by the 19th of December by attaching your CV/Resume via email after making sure you fit to the eligibility criteria and have all necessary documentation available or you are about to soon (academic transcripts, the name/contact details of 2 referees who have agreed to offer recommendation letters, English language certificate for non-native speakers). Please note that there is a two-step recruitment process for this post and support will be offered to shortlisted candidates about how to apply. Therefore, please reach out as early as possible to discuss your career aspirations and the application process in time. Role begins in October 2026.

References

  1. Gatsiou, A, et al. Immunity.2023;56(5):979-997.e11.(doi:10.1016/j.immuni.2023.03.021)(PMID: 37100060)
  2. Dunphy G, et al. Mol Cell. 2018;71(5):745-760.e5.doi:10.1016/j.molcel.2018.07.034.(PMID: 30193098;PMCID: PMC6127031)
  3. Rennie M.L., et al. Nat Struct Mol Biol. 2021; 28:356–364 doi: 10.1038/s41594-021-00576-8. PMID: 33795880