Overview
Research Associate (Stem Cell/Cancer Biology) – The University of Sheffield
We are seeking an independent and motivated postdoctoral Research Associate to work on a Children\'s Cancer and Leukaemia Group/Little Princess Trust-funded project at the interface of stem cell biology and disease modelling. The successful applicant will employ human pluripotent stem cell (hPSC)-based models and in vitro differentiation to dissect the links between chromosomal copy number alterations, DNA damage/repair and neuroblastoma initiation. Applicants must hold a PhD in a subject related to stem cell/developmental biology (or have equivalent experience) along with experience in culture and neural differentiation of hPSCs, immunocytochemistry/imaging, flow cytometry and qPCR. Excellent interpersonal, written and communication skills, and ability to work to a high standard are also essential.
Base pay and benefits
This range is provided by The University of Sheffield. Your actual pay will be based on your skills and experience; talk with your recruiter to learn more.
Salary: £38,784 - £41,064 per annum
Work arrangement: Full-time (100% FTE)
Duration: Fixed term for a period of six months (available immediately)
Line manager: Senior Lecturer/Research group leader
Direct reports: None
Main duties and responsibilities
* Conduct personal research of international standing into the above-mentioned remit for the study. Identify literature, update knowledge, assess validity and its contribution to the development of the field.
* Determine novel research objectives as experiments progress and initiate and implement relevant programme of research.
* Disseminate research findings through production of papers for high quality journals and presentations at in-house or national/international conferences or seminars.
* Efficiently manage time, materials, finance and equipment.
* Provide support to the PI for research proposals and funding applications.
* Supervise or co-supervise undergraduate/postgraduate project students and/or PhD students; delegate and monitor the work of research students.
* Deal with reactive requests relating to supervision of research staff and students.
* Participate in consortium meetings and seminars, particularly with collaborators.
* Plan ahead to meet deadlines for journal publications and to prepare presentations and papers for collaboration meetings and conferences.
* Embed ethical decision-making and the University sustainability strategy in working activities wherever possible.
* Carry out other duties commensurate with the grade and remit of the post.
Person specification and qualifications
* Essential – A PhD in an area related to stem cell/developmental biology (or equivalent experience).
* Essential – Experience with culture and neural differentiation of human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs).
* Essential – Experience in qPCR, flow cytometry and immunocytochemistry/imaging techniques.
* Essential – Excellent written and verbal communication, and ability to deliver presentations.
* Essential – Experience of working as part of a collaborative team and willingness to supervise PhD and undergraduate students.
* Essential – Excellent record keeping and data management skills with appropriate IT experience.
* Essential – Ability to analyse and solve problems with appreciation of longer-term implications; ability to organise resources and plan progress; ability to stay up to date with ongoing research.
* Essential – Ability to work flexibly according to the biological demands of the experimental system and equipment availability.
* Desirable – Knowledge of neuroblastoma/neural crest biology.
Other information
Funding and environment: This is a funded project within the School of Biosciences, University of Sheffield. Contact for informal enquiries: Anestis Tsakiridis (a.tsakiridis@sheffield.ac.uk).
Next steps: Closing Date: 29/09/2025. The selection process will involve an interview with shortlisted candidates. If you require any support or adjustments to participate in the recruitment process, please contact bioscienceshradmin@sheffield.ac.uk.
What we offer
* A minimum of 41 days annual leave (including bank holidays and closure days, pro rata) with the option to purchase more
* Flexible working opportunities, including hybrid working for some roles
* Generous pension scheme
* Discounts and rewards on shopping, eating out and travel
* Staff networks for social interaction, peer support and development (e.g., Race Equality, LGBT+, Women’s and Parents networks)
* Recognition Awards for exceptional performance
* Development opportunities, including access to learning and mentoring schemes
* Family-friendly policies
o Paid time off for parenting and caring emergencies
o Support for those going through the menopause
o Paid time off and support for fertility treatment
o And more
We are a Disability Confident Employer. If you have a disability and meet the essential criteria, you will be invited to participate in the next stage of the selection process.
We are a research university with a global reputation for excellence. Closing Date: 29/09/2025.
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