Fixed-term

Research Fellow – School of Biosciences – 107443

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Position Details School of Biosciences Location: University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham UK As this vacancy has limited funding the maximum salary that can be offered is Grade 7, salary £38,784. Full Time, Fixed Term contract up to July 2027 (12 months) Closing date: 28th May 2026 Background We seek a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to join our dynamic group investigating mitochondrial genetics and function using Drosophila as the model (http://themalab.co.uk). The candidate will use genetic and biochemical approaches to study mitochondrial DNA inheritance during development. You must be ambitious and able to work independently. Applicants should have, or will soon have, a PhD in genetics, biochemistry or molecular biology with a basic knowledge of mitochondrial biology. Previous experience in Drosophila work and confocal imaging would be a strong plus. Role Summary Work within specified research grants and projects Operate within area of specialism Analyse and interpret research findings and results Main Duties The responsibilities may include some but not all of the responsibilities outlined below. Apply knowledge in a way which develops new intellectual understanding Contribute to developing new models, techniques and methods Disseminate research findings for publication, research seminars etc Analyse and interpret data Collect research data; this may be through a variety of research methods, such as scientific experimentation, literature reviews, and research interviews Present research outputs, including drafting academic publications or parts thereof, for example at seminars and as posters Supervise students on research related work and provide guidance to PhD students where appropriate to the discipline Provide guidance, as required, to support staff and any students who may be assisting with the research Contribute to Departmental/School research-related activities and research-related administration Deal with problems that may affect the achievement of research objectives and deadlines Promotes equality and values diversity acting as a role model and fostering an inclusive working culture. Person Specification First degree in area of specialism and normally, a PhD degree relevant to research area or equivalent qualifications High level analytical capability Ability to communicate complex information clearly Fluency in relevant models, techniques or methods and ability to contribute to developing new ones Ability to assess resource requirements and use resources effectively Understanding of and ability to contribute to broader management/administration processes Contribute to the planning and organising of the research programme and/or specific research project Co-ordinate own work with others to avoid conflict or duplication of effort Knowledge of the protected characteristics of the Equality Act 2010, and how to actively ensure in day to day activity in own area that those with protected characteristics are treated equally and fairly Informal enquiries to Hansong Ma, email: h.ma.6@bham.ac.uk Use of AI in applications: We want to understand your genuine interest in the role and for the written elements of your application to accurately reflect your own communication style. Applications that rely too heavily on AI tools can appear generic and lack the detail we need to assess your skills and experience. Such applications will unlikely be progressed to interview. Apply Now

Coupling Transcription and Translation in Eukaryotes

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Details Gene expression is traditionally described as a linear pathway, with transcription and RNA processing in the nucleus and translation confined to the cytoplasm. However, emerging evidence challenges this view, suggesting that translation-related processes may occur within the nucleus. This PhD project will investigate how transcription and translation are functionally coupled, with the aim of revisiting the concept of mRNA surveillance. Rather than acting solely as a degradation pathway, we hypothesise that ribosomes scanning nascent transcripts function as a screening mechanism to identify productive protein-coding mRNAs, thereby contributing to mRNA definition within the nucleus. The work builds on research from the laboratory of Saverio Brogna, including studies showing that RNA surveillance factors such as UPF1 associate with transcripts co-transcriptionally and regulate mRNA release from gene loci. Key questions include: How are transcription and translation mechanistically coupled? Do ribosomes scan nascent transcripts in the nucleus? Can translation-related processes distinguish productive mRNAs from non-productive RNA species? The project will use both Schizosaccharomyces pombe and Drosophila melanogaster. These complementary systems enable the same fundamental question to be addressed in evolutionarily distant eukaryotes, ensuring that findings reflect conserved principles of gene expression. The project combines molecular genetics, RNA biology, and computational analysis, with training in CRISPR–Cas9 genome editing, RNA purification and RNA-seq, and bioinformatic analysis of transcriptomic data. The successful candidate will join a research environment focused on fundamental mechanisms of RNA biology, with broad relevance across eukaryotes and implications for gene regulation and disease. Applicants with backgrounds in molecular biology, genetics, bioinformatics, or computational biology are encouraged to apply. Full training will be provided. Funding Notes This PhD project is open to self-funded applicants only. Candidates must secure external funding (e.g. national scholarships, government sponsorships, or international fellowships) prior to application. References Brogna, S., Sato, T.A. & Rosbash, M. (2002) Molecular Cell Singh, A. et al. (2019) eLife 8: e41444 Recent work: Nucleic Acids Research (PMID: 34928380) Apply Now

Understanding the effects of ageing on early brain injury following haemorrhagic stroke

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Project Details: Subarachnoid haemorrhage (SAH) is a severe type of haemorrhagic stroke which occurs when an aneurysm ruptures in the subarachnoid space. Normal biological ageing weakens cerebral blood vessels, and hence increasing age is associated with higher risks of a stroke. SAH mainly affects people of 40-60 years, however recent data demonstrates that with an ageing population there has been an increase in the number of elderly patients admitted to hospital with SAH, who have a higher rate of poor outcome. Current treatments aim to stop the bleed however this does not prevent early brain injury mechanisms from occurring, resulting in two thirds of patients being left with some form of disability. Understanding pathophysiological processes following SAH would enable us to develop therapies to improve patient outcome. This PhD project proposes to determine how ageing affects early brain injury mechanisms following SAH, with the overall goal to identify genes/proteins that we can target therapeutically to improve patient outcome following SAH. The student will develop skills in in vivo models and molecular and cellular techniques including RNA sequencing, fluorescent in situ hybridisation and immunofluorescent staining. Person Specification We are looking for a talented and highly motivated individual to join the lab of Dr Hannah Botfield and Professor Lisa Hill within the School of Infection, Inflammation and Immunology at the University of Birmingham. Applicants should have a strong background in biomedical sciences, cell biology, molecular biology or a related discipline, and ideally experience in neuroscience, inflammation, or translational research. Candidates should hold, or expect to obtain, at least an Upper Second-Class Honours degree (or equivalent). A strong interest in experimental laboratory research is essential. How to apply Informal enquiries should be directed to Dr Hannah Botfield (email: h.botfield@bham.ac.uk) Applications should be directed to Dr Hannah Botfield (email: h.botfield@bham.ac.uk). To apply, please send: •  A detailed CV, including your nationality and country of birth; •  Names and addresses of two referees; •  A covering letter highlighting your research experience/capabilities; •  Copies of your degree certificates with transcripts; Funding Notes The studentship is offered as a 3-year award (commencing September/October 2026) on a full-time basis. This PhD studentship is funded by the Stroke Association and funding includes stipend and tuition fees (home status) and is available for home/UK students only. References Lauzier DC, Jayaraman K, Yuan JY, Diwan D, Vellimana AK, Osbun JW, Chatterjee AR, Athiraman U, Dhar R, Zipfel GJ. Early Brain Injury After Subarachnoid Hemorrhage: Incidence and Mechanisms. Stroke. 2023 May;54(5):1426-1440. doi:10.1161/STROKEAHA.122.040072 Hewitt BJ, Ali M, Hubbard J, Hill LJ, Botfield H. Systematic Review of the Differential Effects of TGF-β1 in Ischemic and Hemorrhagic Preclinical Stroke Models. J Am Heart Assoc. 2025 Jul 15;14(14):e037890. doi: 10.1161/JAHA.124.037890. Hewitt BJ, Roberts L, Roberts JA, Fulton D, Hill LJ, Kitchen P, Bill RM, Botfield HF. Adult organotypic brain slice cultures recapitulate extracellular matrix remodeling in hemorrhagic stroke. Front Cell Neurosci. 2026 Jan 27;19:1722240. doi: 10.3389/fncel.2025.1722240.

Using extracellular vesicles to develop a management decision aid for Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome and Pulmonary Fibrosis

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Details We are seeking talented, motivated students with a passion for research in Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome to join Dr Rahul Mahida’s team in the Institute of Inflammation and Ageing at the University of Birmingham (https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/staff/profiles/inflammation-ageing/mahida-rahul.aspx). Applicants should have a first or upper second-class degree in a relevant scientific discipline, and who are self-funded or have typically applied for, or secured funding for their studies from their government, employer or associated charitable organisations. THE BIRMINGHAM ACUTE CARE RESEARCH GROUP Dr Mahida is an Associate Professor in the Birmingham Acute Care Research (BACR) group at the University of Birmingham. His translational research focuses on the role of inflammatory pathways, biomarker identification, extracellular vesicles and macrophage dysfunction in the pathogenesis of acute and chronic respiratory diseases. PROJECT SUMMARY: ARDS is a devastating hyper-inflammatory disorder of the lungs which can be precipitated by various insults, the most common being sepsis. Patients with ARDS require prolonged invasive ventilation and have a high mortality (~40%). Of survivors, 10% develop pulmonary fibrosis sequelae. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) have been implicated in the pathogenesis of ARDS, with prior studies indicating they can transfer pro-inflammatory signals (microRNAs, metabolites, proteins) rapidly between organ compartments and contribute to organ failure. This study aims to recruit critically ill sepsis patients with and without ARDS from the ICU, and pulmonary fibrosis patients, collect their blood and urine samples from which EVs will be isolated, and collect physiological/clinical data longitudinally. EVs will then be characterised in terms of size profile, concentration and surface markers indicating cell or origin. EV cargo will be assessed via a multi-omics approach: small RNA transcriptomics, proteomics, lipidomics and metabolomics. These multi-omic data will be analysed and correlated with clinical phenotype and outcome to develop a robust prognostication model and potentially offer insights guiding use of targeted therapies in both ARDS and Pulmonary Fibrosis. The Institute of Inflammation and Ageing is embedded within the University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Trust, which hosts the largest single-site ICU in Europe and one of the largest regional Interstitial Lung Diseases services in the UK. This enables access to large patient cohorts for clinical, translational and data based studies. PhD projects, using these approaches, answering clinically and/or translationally relevant research questions are available to self-funded or scholarship-funded graduates interested in joining BACR. Applicants with research experience and/or Master’s degree should apply directly to the Institute of Inflammation and Ageing for a 3 or 4 year full-time PhD – https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/postgraduate/courses/research/med/inflammation-ageing.aspx. This route requires applicants to submit a drafted research proposal. Applicants will need to submit the following documentation during the application process. • Detailed CV, including your nationality and country of birth; • Covering letter highlighting your research experience/capabilities and why you wish to undertake a PhD in the team; • Names and addresses of two referees; • Copies of your degree certificates with transcripts written in English; • Evidence of your proficiency in the English language, if applicable. • Evidence of scholarship application/funding or independent funding. Funding notes: Applicants are invited from self-funded or scholarship-funded graduates ONLY Applicants will be self-funded or will have typically applied for, or secured funding for their studies from their government, employer or associated charitable organisations. Overseas graduates require IELTs of 6.5 overall. Applying directly to the Institute of Inflammation and Ageing for either a 3 or 4 year full-time PhD – https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/postgraduate/courses/research/med/inflammation-ageing.aspx. Apply Now

Synthesis, Characterisation and Evaluation of Novel Antimicrobial Agents against Polymicrobial Biofilms.

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Details Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a major global health threat, driven in part by the persistence of polymicrobial biofilms that exhibit high tolerance to antimicrobial treatments and immune defences. These structured microbial communities contribute to chronic and recurrent infections that are difficult to eradicate. This project aims to address this challenge through the development of novel antibiotic analogues designed to inhibit or disrupt clinically relevant polymicrobial biofilms comprising Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Escherichia coli. To achieve this, the project will establish an optimised multispecies biofilm model and synthesise new conjugates that will undergo comprehensive physicochemical characterisation using analytical techniques such as TLC, FTIR, NMR, LC MS, and microanalysis. Their antimicrobial and antibiofilm activities will be evaluated through MIC, MLC, time kill, viability, and quantitative biofilm assays, while confocal laser scanning microscopy will provide high resolution visualisation of biofilm structure and treatment effects. The research aims to generate deeper insights into multispecies biofilm behaviour, stress responses, and mechanisms of disruption by novel conjugates. Expected outcomes include improved understanding of biofilm development, a library of validated novel antimicrobial compounds, and mechanistic evidence supporting their therapeutic potential. Training opportunities: The project offers extensive interdisciplinary training in both physicochemical and biological techniques, delivered in state of the art laboratories within the Schools of Dentistry and Chemistry. The student will also receive structured development in scientific writing, presentation skills, and oral communication, and will be fully integrated into the vibrant postgraduate research community across the School, College, and wider University. Opportunities to attend national and international conferences, as well as to prepare research outputs for publication, will further enhance academic development. Progress will be supported through weekly project update meetings in addition to formal monthly research progress reviews. Eligibility: Applicants should have a strong foundation in chemistry, microbiology, or pharmaceutical sciences, and demonstrate commitment to the research project. Candidates should hold, or be on track to achieve, at least an Upper Second Class Honours degree (or international equivalent) in a relevant discipline. Preference will be given to applicants who have studied chemistry at undergraduate or postgraduate level. Students from BSc/MSc Microbiology, Medicinal Chemistry, MPharm and BDS programmes are encouraged to apply. As this is an interdisciplinary project, full training will be provided. Funding Notes: Applications are invited from self-funded or scholarship-funded students ONLY. Applicants will be self-funded or will have applied or secured funding from external organisations such as their government, employer etc. Overseas graduates require IELTs of 6.5 overall. For further details on the project or application process, please contact Dr Ayesha Rahman at a.s.rahman@bham.ac.uk. Apply Now

Improving Nutrient Bioavailability in Wheat by Reducing Antinutritional Factors

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Details Micronutrient deficiencies—often referred to as hidden hunger—affect over two billion people worldwide, with iron and zinc deficiencies among the most prevalent. Wheat is a major global staple crop, yet its nutritional value is limited by the presence of phytic acid, a naturally occurring antinutrient that binds essential minerals and reduces their bioavailability in the human diet. This PhD project aims to improve the nutritional quality of wheat grain by reducing phytic acid content while maintaining plant performance and yield. The work will explore how the genetic redundancy of bread wheat’s hexaploid genome can be exploited to fine tune, rather than eliminate, key genes involved in phytic acid biosynthesis and storage. This strategy offers a novel route to enhancing micronutrient bioavailability with minimal negative effects on plant growth. Research Objectives The successful candidate will: • Investigate the genetic regulation of phytic acid accumulation in wheat grain • Develop and characterise wheat lines with partial loss-of-function mutations in key phytic acid pathway genes (e.g. ITPK, IPK1, MRP/ABCC transporters) • Assess the impact of reduced antinutrient levels on: o Grain phytic acid content o Micronutrient concentration (iron and zinc) o Seed germination, yield-related traits, and overall plant fitness • Identify genetic strategies that reduce antinutrient content without compromising agronomic performance Methodology The project will combine genetics, molecular biology, and plant phenotyping, with training provided as needed. Core methodologies may include: • Marker-assisted selection using mutant wheat populations • Analysis of gene dosage and enzyme activity effects • Seed composition analysis (phytic acid and mineral content) • Glasshouse and/or field-based phenotyping • Statistical analysis of genotype–phenotype relationships The project is well suited to applicants interested in translational plant science, with outcomes relevant to crop breeding, global nutrition, and sustainable agriculture. Training and Research Environment The PhD student will join a supportive research group working at the interface of crop genetics, nutrition, and plant physiology. The project provides excellent training in: • Wheat functional genomics • Applied plant breeding approaches • Nutritional quality assessment • Independent research design and data analysis The work will generate valuable mutant resources and preliminary data suitable for future grant applications and academic or industry careers. Funding Notes This is a self-funded PhD opportunity. Applicants must be able to cover tuition fees and living expenses for the duration of the programme. The project is suitable for applicants supported by personal funds, government sponsorship, employer funding, or external scholarships. Dr Oluwaseyi Shorinola (o.shorinola@bham.ac.uk) would be happy to have an informal discussion with interested applicants before making the application. Apply Now

Research Associate (2584)

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The University of Sheffield is a remarkable place to work. Our people are at the heart of everything we do. Their diverse backgrounds, abilities and beliefs make Sheffield a world-class university. We offer a fantastic range of benefits including a highly competitive annual leave entitlement (with the ability to purchase more), a generous pensions scheme, flexible working opportunities, a commitment to your development and wellbeing, a wide range of retail discounts, and much more. Find out more about our benefits (opens in a new window) and join us to become part of something special. Overview The successful postholder will join the Mesothelioma UK Research Centre in the School of Allied Health Professionals, Pharmacy, Nursing & Midwifery. A Research Associate is required to provide parental leave cover for a period of 8 months. The successful candidate will work on a number of studies related to mesothelioma, including qualitative research exploring experiences of immunotherapy, a mixed methods study exploring factors influencing treatment access and a systematic review on Patient Reported Outcome Measures (PROMS). The postholder will also have the opportunity to develop ideas for future studies, in collaboration with colleagues. The Mesothelioma UK Research Centre is funded by Mesothelioma UK (a charity for mesothelioma patients and families) to undertake research and develop resources to optimize well-being for those living with mesothelioma. The post provides an ideal postdoctoral opportunity to establish an academic career in the field of health research, nursing or cancer research. The post provides the ideal platform for progression to an academic post or would suit those seeking to establish a long-term research career. The postholder will have a PhD (or be nearing completion) or equivalent experience. They will need experience that would enable them to conduct mixed methods research, including with mesothelioma patients and/or their family members. They will have a recognised expertise in health research and the ability to be self-directed in conducting projects they are responsible for. They will need to demonstrate ability to deliver research outputs, including peer-review publications and conference presentations. Main duties and responsibilities Develop and maintain a strong working relationship with Mesothelioma UK and non-academic stakeholders as appropriate. Develop protocols for ethical review and submit to the University of Sheffield Research Ethics Committee or NHS Research Ethics Committees. Plan and undertake reviews of the literature, using recognised methods. Design and develop data collection materials including surveys and qualitative interview guides Analyse qualitative and quantitative data, including secondary analysis. Write publications for peer review journals. Disseminate research using methods such as conference presentations, presentations at clinical and stakeholder events, press releases, social media. Read academic papers, journals, books and professional literature and attend conferences to keep abreast of developments in the area. Conduct Patient and Public Involvement (PPI) activities, supported by senior staff Carry out other duties, commensurate with the grade and remit of the post Person Specification Our diverse community of staff and students recognises the unique abilities, backgrounds, and beliefs of all. We foster a culture where everyone feels they belong and is respected. Even if your past experience doesn’t match perfectly with this role’s criteria, your contribution is valuable, and we encourage you to apply. Please ensure that you reference the application criteria in the application statement when you apply. Criteria Essential or desirable Stage(s) assessed at A PhD (or near completion) or equivalent experience related to health research, nursing or cancer research. Essential Application/interview Experience working with patients with cancer, advanced/life limiting illness, or otherwise vulnerable individuals. Essential Application/interview Experience of conducting literature reviews using recognised methods. Essential Application/interview Experience of conducting mixed methods research in a health context Essential Application/interview Experience using statistical software packages e.g. SPSS Essential Application/interview Experience of conducting qualitative data analysis using CAQDAS (such as NVIVO, Quirkos) Essential Application/interview Experience of Patient and Public Involvement & Engagement (PPIE) in research. Desirable Application/interview Proven track record of research activity and outputs in a health related field. These may include publications in high quality peer-reviewed journals and conference presentations Essential Application/interview Evidence of contribution to research impact in policy, practice, public engagement or education Desirable Application/interview Effective communication skills, both written and verbal, report writing skills, experience of delivering presentations Essential Application/interview Further Information   Grade 7 Salary   Work arrangement 60%FTE Duration 22/6/26 –  12/3/27 Line manager Prof Clare Gardiner, Director Mesothelioma UK Research Centre Direct reports   Our website https://sheffield.ac.uk/murc For informal enquiries about this job contact Clare Gardiner, Director Mesothelioma UK Research Centre, c.gardiner@sheffield.ac.uk   Next steps in the recruitment process It is anticipated that the selection process will take place on Monday 15th June 2026. This will consist of an interview and presentation (face to face or on-line). We plan to let candidates know if they have progressed to the selection stage on the week commencing 1st June 2026. If you need any support, equipment or adjustments to enable you to participate in any element of the recruitment process you can contact Caroline Potts on c.e.potts@sheffield.ac.uk.   Our vision and strategic plan We are the University of Sheffield. This is our vision: sheffield.ac.uk/vision (opens in new window). What we offer A minimum of 41 days annual leave including bank holiday and closure days (pro rata) with the ability to purchase more. Flexible working opportunities, including hybrid working for some roles. Generous pension scheme. A wide range of discounts and rewards on shopping, eating out and travel. A variety of staff networks, providing opportunities for social interaction, peer support and personal development (for example, Race Equality, LGBT+, Women’s and Parent’s networks). Recognition Awards to reward staff who go above and beyond in their role. A commitment to your development access to learning and mentoring schemes; integrated with our Academic Career Pathways. A range of generous family-friendly policies paid time off for parenting and caring emergencies support for those going through the menopause paid time off and support for fertility treatment and more More details can be found on our benefits page: sheffield.ac.uk/jobs/benefits (opens in a new window). We are a Disability Confident Employer. If you have a disability and meet the essential criteria for this job you will

Research Associate in Cancer Biology

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Overview We are seeking a Research Associate to join the School of Medicine and Population Health at the University of Sheffield. This three-year project, funded by Yorkshire Cancer Research, focuses on developing a groundbreaking targeted therapy to prevent breast cancer bone metastasis. You will build upon significant data from the Gartland Group which demonstrates the critical role of the P2X7 receptor in bone cancers. In this role, you will apply a diverse range of cellular and molecular biology techniques. Your work will involve utilizing in vitro co-culture models of breast cancer alongside our specialized in-house in vivo and ex vivo models of breast cancer and bone disease. To uncover the role of secreted factors and extracellular vesicles in the metastasis cascade, you will perform genome-wide transcriptomic analyses and proteomic profiling. You will also use advanced tools like CRISPR-Cas9 and flow cytometry to drive the project’s success. As a key member of our multidisciplinary team, you will collaborate closely with the principal investigator, co-investigators, and technical colleagues to deliver high-impact results. Beyond the laboratory, this position offers excellent professional development opportunities. You will help mentor PhD and MSc students in essential laboratory methods and take the lead on writing abstracts, presenting at international scientific conferences, and preparing manuscripts for publication. This is a unique opportunity to use your expertise in cancer biology to make a meaningful difference in patient outcomes within a world-class research environment. Main duties and responsibilities Project Execution: Design and perform experiments as required to achieve the project’s work package aims. This includes utilising the following techniques (not exhaustive list): breast cancer/bone/endothelial/lung cell co-culture models, in normoxic and hypoxic conditions EV isolation and characterisation phenotypic cell characterisation i.e. cell proliferation, migration, and other cell-specific assays Assessing cell dormancy using DiD+ labelling coupled with immunofluorescence and flow cytometry Utilising CRISPR-Cas9 to generate KO cells In-house in vivo/ex vivo models of breast cancer metastasis and bone disease. Immunohistochemistry/immunofluorescence and routine histology Use genome-wide transcriptomic analyses, proteomics and other advanced technologies to identify changes in the primary tumour microenvironment vascularisation and immune cell infiltration, and eventually metastasis. Data Analysis and Management: Process and interpret complex datasets, maintain data in accordance with the data management plan, adhering to the University’s Good Research and Innovation Practices (GRIP) policy. Project Management: Manage the work strictly to meet the projects milestones, including regular reporting to the funders. Documentation: Maintain rigorous and detailed records of wet-lab protocols, results and analysis. Collaboration: Work closely with a multidisciplinary team as well as clinical colleagues contributing to strategic discussions on clinical translation. Supervision: Teach PhD and MSc students laboratory techniques as required. Dissemination: Write abstracts to present findings at national and international research conferences, write up data for peer review publication, interact with Yorkshire Cancer Research to disseminate results to patient and public groups. Safety & Compliance: Adhere to all health & safety policies, including CoSHH regulations and specific SOPs for handling human biological samples. As a member of staff, you will be encouraged to make ethical decisions in your role, embedding the University sustainability strategy into your working activities wherever possible. Carry out other duties, commensurate with the grade and remit of the post Person Specification Our diverse community of staff and students recognises the unique abilities, backgrounds, and beliefs of all. We foster a culture where everyone feels they belong and is respected. Even if your past experience doesn’t match perfectly with this role’s criteria, your contribution is valuable, and we encourage you to apply. Please ensure that you reference the application criteria in the application statement when you apply. Criteria Essential or desirable Stage(s) assessed at PhD (or equivalent experience) in a relevant subject area such as cancer biology, molecular biology, cell biology. Essential Application Undergraduate degree in a relevant biological or biomedical discipline. Essential Application Proven ability to conduct independent research and evidence of outputs (e.g. publications, presentations. Essential Application Demonstrated experience in tissue culture, molecular and cellular biology techniques. Essential Application/interview Experience in molecular profiling techniques in cancer (e.g. mass spectrometry, RNAseq, qPCR, ELISA, flow cytometry) Essential Application/interview Excellent written and verbal communication skills Essential Application/interview Strong teamworking and time-management and project management skills Essential Application/interview Have utilised in vivo models for cancer studies Desirable Application/interview Expertise in EV isolation and characterisation Desirable  Experience in computational analysis of biological data/bioinformatics Desirable Application/interview Further Information   Grade 7 Salary £38,784 Work arrangement Full-time Duration 3 years available from 1st June 2026 Line manager Principle Investigator Direct reports n/a Our website https://sheffield.ac.uk/smph For informal enquiries about this job contact Professor Alison Gartland, on a.gartland@sheffield.ac.uk   Next steps in the recruitment process It is anticipated that the selection process will take 2 weeks after close of the application submission deadline. This will consist of and interview with a presentation. We plan to let candidates know if they have progressed to the selection stage 2 weeks after close of the application process. If you need any support, equipment or adjustments to enable you to participate in any element of the recruitment process you can contact the Staffing Team at smph-west-staffing@sheffield.ac.uk.   Our vision and strategic plan We are the University of Sheffield. This is our vision: sheffield.ac.uk/vision (opens in new window). What we offer A minimum of 41 days annual leave including bank holiday and closure days (pro rata) with the ability to purchase more. Flexible working opportunities, including hybrid working for some roles. Generous pension scheme. A wide range of discounts and rewards on shopping, eating out and travel. A variety of staff networks, providing opportunities for social interaction, peer support and personal development (for example, Race Equality, LGBT+, Women’s and Parent’s networks). Recognition Awards to reward staff who go above and beyond in their role. A commitment to your development access to learning and mentoring schemes; integrated with our Academic Career Pathways. A range of generous family-friendly policies paid time off for parenting and caring emergencies access to menopause support in the workplace paid time off and support for fertility treatment and more More details can be found on our benefits page: sheffield.ac.uk/jobs/benefits (opens in a new window). We are

Research Associate in Multimodal Spatial Omics and AI-Driven Mechanobiology

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Overview We are seeking a talented and motivated Research Associate to join the NEOPATH research group within the Faculty of Health, University of Sheffield. This is an exciting opportunity, funded by Fanconi Hope, to work at the intersection of spatial biology, mechanobiology and computational oncology contributing to cutting-edge research in predicting disease progression and therapeutic response in genetic cancer predisposition syndromes (i.e. Fanconi Anaemia) and associated malignancies. Led by Dr Hanya Mahmood, Professors Daniel Lambert and Ali Khurram, this multidisciplinary project focuses on modelling tumour evolution by integrating multimodal spatial omics and biophysical profiling with advanced AI-driven analysis. You will work alongside a multidisciplinary team of clinicians, molecular biologists, and pathologists to generate and analyse experimental training datasets that uncover novel biomarkers, predict treatment resistance, and inform precision medicine strategies for patients with high-risk cancer predisposition syndromes including Fanconi Anaemia. The role requires unique competencies in  advanced wet-lab experimentation, specifically high-plex in situ profiling, bio-informatics and computational framework development. This offers a rare opportunity for an individual with a background in molecular or cell biology who is also highly skilled in 3D tumour modelling, and the application of computational bio-image analysis. You’ll be part of a dynamic, supportive, and forward-thinking research environment committed to making real clinical impact through innovation in cancer diagnostics and personalised medicine. Main duties and responsibilities Generate, process, and analyse multimodal datasets including multiplex imaging, spatial transcriptomics, integrating findings from laboratory work with computational outputs. Manage and maintain laboratory equipment, digital pathology tools, software environments, and data systems essential for experimental and computational workflows. Work both independently and collaboratively as part of the NEOPATH research group, engaging with co-investigators and funders to meet project milestones and contributing to overall project planning and delivery including scheduling of detailed programmes of work and resource requirements within each stage of the project. Maintain accurate and detailed records of all research activity, including wet-lab protocols, data acquisition processes, and bioinformatics pipelines. Adhere to Health & Safety policies, including CoSHH regulations and SOPs. Liaise regularly with the principal investigator and project supervisors, contributing to team meetings and strategic discussions. Contribute to the wider research group supporting students and other postdoctoral researchers. Prepare and deliver presentations for internal meetings, patient-centred meetings, funders, collaborators, and external audiences such as conferences. Undertake literature reviews to ensure the project is informed by the latest developments. Contribute to manuscript preparation, technical reports, and funding applications. Support responsible research conduct and sustainability practices. Carry out other duties as required, commensurate with the scope and grade of the post. Person Specification  Our diverse community of staff and students recognises the unique abilities, backgrounds, and beliefs of all. We foster a culture where everyone feels they belong and are respected. Even if your experience doesn’t match perfectly with this role’s criteria, your contribution is valuable, and we encourage you to apply. Please ensure that you reference the application criteria in the application statement when you apply. Criteria Essential or desirable Stage(s)  assessed at PhD (or equivalent experience) in a relevant subject area such as molecular biology, cell biology, cancer biology, bioinformatics, or computational pathology Essential Application Undergraduate degree in a relevant biological, biomedical, or computational discipline Essential Application Proven ability to conduct independent research and evidence of outputs (e.g. publications, presentations) Essential Application Demonstrated experience in tissue culture and/or molecular and/or cellular biology techniques (e.g. RNA/protein extraction, tissue processing, multiplex imaging analysis) Essential Application/Interview Experience in computational analysis of biological data (e.g., transcriptomics, spatial omics, image analysis) Essential Application/Interview Proficiency in R or Python for the development of predictive models incorporating spatial and biophysical variables Desirable Application/Interview Ability to integrate experimental and computational data Essential Application/Interview Excellent written and verbal communication skills Essential Application/Interview Strong teamworking and time-management skills Essential Application/Interview Demonstrated experience with spatial transcriptomics and multiplex platforms (e.g. Visium, Xenium, Cell Dive) Essential Application/Interview Familiarity with digital pathology, bio-image, bio-informatics  analysis platforms (e.g. QuPath, HALO, CellProfiler) Essential Application/Interview Experience of engagement with stakeholders (e.g. PPIE, clinicians, charities) Desirable Application/Interview Familiarity with translational cancer research Essential Application/Interview Further Information Grade 7 Salary £38,784 – £39,906 Work arrangement Full-time Duration 1 June 2026 for 24 months Line manager Principal Investigator Our website https://www.sheffield.ac.uk/dentalschool For informal enquiries about this job contact Dr Hanya Mahmood, Senior Clinical Lecturer & Consultant Oral Surgeon on: h.mahmood@sheffield.ac.uk Next steps in the recruitment process It is anticipated that the selection process will take place on 22 May 2026. This will consist of an interview and presentation. We plan to let candidates know if they have progressed to the selection stage 2 weeks after close of the application process. If you need any support, equipment or adjustments to enable you to participate in any element of the recruitment process you can contact j.l.young@sheffield.ac.uk who will be able to assist. Our vision and strategic plan We are the University of Sheffield. This is our vision: sheffield.ac.uk/vision  (opens in new window). What we offer A minimum of 41 days annual leave including bank holiday and closure days (pro rata) with the ability to purchase more. Flexible working opportunities, including hybrid working for some roles. Generous pension scheme. A wide range of discounts and rewards on shopping, eating out and travel. A variety of staff networks, providing opportunities for social interaction, peer support and personal development (for example, Race Equality, LGBT+, Women’s and Parent’s networks). Recognition Awards to reward staff who go above and beyond in their role. A range of generous family-friendly policies paid time off for parenting and caring emergencies support for those going through the menopause paid time off and support for fertility treatment and more More details can be found on our benefits page: sheffield.ac.uk/jobs/benefits (opens in a new window). We are a Disability Confident Employer. If you have a disability and meet the essential criteria for this job you will be invited to take part in the next stage of the selection process.

Using machine learning to model complex biological interactions

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About the project This project aims to build an AI-driven system that analyses live-cell microscopy videos showing how immune cells attack cancer cells. The videos are generated in a biology lab where each experiment can be precisely controlled. You will create machine-learning and computer-vision algorithms that can detect, track, and model these cell-to-cell interactions, revealing patterns that explain when and why immune cells succeed or fail. Antibody-based treatments have transformed how certain cancers are treated, offering highly targeted ways to attack malignant cells. Yet, even with the same type of therapy, patient responses vary widely. In some cases, immune cells effectively eliminate the cancer cells, while in others, the same treatment has little effect. This inconsistency points to complex, dynamic interactions between immune cells and cancer cells that remain poorly understood. Traditional experimental techniques capture only snapshots of these interactions, missing the rich temporal and behavioural patterns that unfold over time. This project will use advanced artificial intelligence to help uncover what drives these differences. You will work with time-lapse microscopy videos showing immune cells interacting with cancer cells, developing computational methods to analyse, model, and explain their behaviour. The project combines modern machine learning, video analysis, and explainable AI to identify subtle cues and temporal dynamics that influence treatment outcomes. You will design algorithms that can detect meaningful behaviours, learn from complex visual data, and provide insights that go beyond what human observation can achieve. The work will be carried out in close collaboration with experimental biologists who generate the data, but the project will primarily focus on the computational side developing, testing, and refining AI models to interpret biological processes. The School of Electronics & Computer Science is committed to promoting equality, diversity inclusivity as demonstrated by our Athena SWAN award. We welcome all applicants regardless of their gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation or age, and will give full consideration to applicants seeking flexible working patterns and those who have taken a career break. The University has a generous maternity policy, onsite childcare facilities, and offers a range of benefits to help ensure employees’ well-being and work-life balance. The University of Southampton is committed to sustainability and has been awarded the Platinum EcoAward. Entry requirements You must have a UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent, in one of the following: computer science Artificial Intelligence biology biomedical sciences Strong computational or data analysis skills are essential. Desirable skills: proficiency in Python and modern machine learning frameworks experience or interest in computer vision foundational understanding of biological concepts Fees and funding This project is fully funded by the Savvas Chamberlain Scholarship. How to apply Apply now You need to: choose programme type (Research), 2026/27, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences select Full time or Part time search for programme PhD Computer Science (7089) add name of the supervisor in section 2 of the application Applications should include: research proposal your CV (resumé) 2 academic references degree transcripts and certificates to date English language qualification (if applicable) Contact us Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences If you have a general question, email our doctoral college (feps-pgr-apply@soton.ac.uk). Project leader For an initial conversation, email Dr Mohammad Soorati (M.Soorati@soton.ac.uk).

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