Overview
We seek a highly motivated developmental biologist to join the group of Dr Nicola Nadeau on a Leverhulme Research Project grant researching the genetics and biomechanics of butterfly scale structure formation. You will work as part of an international, interdisciplinary team in a vibrant research environment, within the Ecology and Evolutionary Biology research cluster.
Applicants must have a PhD (or equivalent experience) in evolutionary developmental biology along with experience of developmental and molecular biology techniques, including imaging and gene expression analysis. A proven ability to perform cutting-edge science, as evidenced through publications in high quality journals or on pre-print servers is also essential.
Main Duties And Responsibilities
* Conduct research of international standing into the structural formation of butterfly wing scales during development.
* Apply and develop tools for imaging butterfly scale structure formation (e.g. immunofluorescence, super-resolution microscopy).
* Perform developmental manipulations (e.g. using CRISPR/Cas9) to determine the role of specific cellular components in scale morphogenesis.
* Determine novel research objectives as experiments progress, initiate and implement relevant programme of research.
* Efficiently manage time, materials, finance and equipment.
* Assist with setting up equipment, ordering and organisation of resources in the lab.
* Disseminate research findings through the production of papers for high quality journals and presentations either in-house or at national/international conferences or seminars.
* Provide support to the PI for research proposals and funding applications.
* Supervise or co-supervise undergraduate/postgraduate students.
* Maintain effective communication within the team and with collaborating research groups.
* Read academic papers, journals and textbooks and attend conferences to keep abreast of developments.
* 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. Please ensure that you reference the application criteria in the application statement when you apply.
Essential Criteria
* A PhD (or equivalent experience) in evolutionary developmental biology (Assessment: Application).
* Experience of developmental and molecular biology techniques, including imaging and gene expression analysis (Assessment: Application/Interview).
* Experience of applying developmental techniques to non-model organisms (e.g. Heliconius) (Assessment: Application/Interview).
* Experience of using CRISPR/Cas9 on non-model organisms (Assessment: Application/Interview).
* Proven ability to perform cutting-edge science, evidenced through publications in high quality journals or on pre-print servers (Assessment: Application).
* Effective communication skills, both written and verbal; report writing and experience of delivering presentations (Assessment: Application/Interview).
* Experience communicating with a team of staff, including undergraduate and postgraduate students (Assessment: Application/Interview).
* Ability to direct your own research and assume leadership on a project (Assessment: Application/Interview).
* Ability to develop creative approaches to problem solving and willingness to tackle unfamiliar tasks and develop new skills (Assessment: Application/Interview).
Further Information
Grade: 7
Work arrangement: 100% FTE
Duration: Fixed-term from 13 October 2025 (or as soon as possible thereafter) for a period of 4 years
Line manager:
Direct reports: None
Our website: School of Biosciences
For informal enquiries about this job contact Nicola Nadeau, project lead: on n.nadeau@sheffield.ac.uk or on 0114 222 4717
Next steps in the recruitment process
It is anticipated that the selection process will take place in the weeks following the closing date. This will consist of an interview, with the opportunity to meet other members of the team and visit the School of Biosciences. We plan to let candidates know if they have progressed to the selection stage within two weeks of the advertised closing date. If you need any support, equipment or adjustments to enable you to participate in any element of the recruitment process please contact bioscienceshradmin@sheffield.ac.uk
Benefits
* 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.
* 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.
* Recognition Awards to reward staff who go above and beyond in their role.
* A commitment to your development access to learning and mentoring schemes.
* 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.
Closing Date : 20/10/2025
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.
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