Position Details
Department of Metabolism and Systems Sciences, School of Medical Sciences, College of Medicine and Health
Location: University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham UK
Full time starting salary is normally in the range £33,002 to £35,608 with potential progression once in post to £39,906. As this vacancy has limited funding the maximum salary that can be offered is Grade 6, salary £33,002.
Grade: 6
Full Time, Fixed Term contract up to November 2026
Closing date: 7th October 2025
Background
We are seeking a talented and motivated Research Associate to join Professor Daniel Tennant's research group in the School of Medical Sciences at the University of Birmingham to work on two active research projects that are investigating human metabolism in health and disease – with particular focus on brain and liver.
Role Summary
This role is funded through two externally-awarded research grants to investigate the control of aspects of mammalian metabolism in health and disease – one focused on mitochondrial anti-oxidant function and the other regarding nitrogen metabolism in brain tumours.
The post holder will be required primarily to work alongside two post-doctoral fellows who will undertake day-to-day supervision. However, the post-holder will also be expected to work flexibly on other projects and with collaborative samples as required. They will have the opportunity to t ake a lead in aspects of the projects, with agreement from the relevant post-doctoral fellow, to ensure continued generation of new data and knowledge, and c ontribute to the day-to-day running of the laboratory through maintaining communal reagents.
Main Duties
* Collect research data; through a variety of research methods including performing experiments alongside other members of staff and working independently to generate results of sufficient quality for publication in high quality journals
* Analyse research data as directed and present research outputs, including drafting academic publications or parts thereof, for example at internal research meetings, internal and external conferences (where appropriate), seminars and as posters
* Develop or adapt techniques, models and methods, in collaboration with other members of the research group, to ensure they are best practice in the field
* Deal with problems that may affect the achievement of research objectives and deadlines
* Carry out administrative tasks related directly to the delivery of the research
* Promotes equality and values diversity acting as a role model and fostering an inclusive working culture
Person Specification
* Degree or equivalent in relevant subject area ( biology, biochemistry or similar area) with significant relevant research experience and a demonstrable understanding of metabolic biochemistry. A Masters level degree in one of these areas would be desirable
* Practical experience of applying the relevant skills and techniques (including mammalian tissue culture)
* Ability to analyse information and communicate effectively
* Ability to access and organise resources successfully
* 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
Shortlisted candidates will be asked to deliver a ten-minute presentation on their most relevant research experience, and why they feel they are best placed for the position
Informal enquiries to Daniel Tennant, email:
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