Research Associate in Multimodal Spatial Omics and AI-Driven Mechanobiology

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.

Further Information

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.