Research Associate (Human Nutrition) in Sheffield

Overview

We have an exciting opportunity for a researcher with passion for multi‑disciplinary translational biomedical research in the field of human nutrition. The work is part of a NAPIC funded project that studies the nutritional potential of cultured meat. Identifying sustainable alternative proteins is essential for meeting future protein needs. Your role will involve assessing the protein quality and digestibility of cultured meat developed in the UK.

You will lead the development of an optimised gut‑intestine digestion model that mimics human digestion for assessing nutritional properties of cultured meat. This includes nutritional profiling, amino acid composition analyses, training industry partners on these methods and establishing the methods in their laboratories. The role also involves using immunological and biochemical methods to analyse nutrient samples, such as ELISA kits, and to optimise experimental protocols.

You should have a strong track record in laboratory research, bench‑top chemistry, and food analysis. A strong understanding of protein and enzyme chemistry, along with experience in establishing and optimising experimental methods, is essential. Applicants from biological sciences and lab backgrounds with a passion for nutrition and translational research are encouraged to apply. Strong communication and interpersonal skills are required to liaise with external collaborators.

Main duties and responsibilities

• Lead the day‑to‑day running of the research project, including documentation and ordering consumables.
• Develop and optimise an in‑vitro gut‑intestinal digestion model for data collection.
• Conduct experiments measuring protein digestibility and quality in cultured meat samples.
• Analyse digesta samples and develop methods for estimating protein digestibility and quality.
• Liaise with the industry partner to obtain samples and assist with nutritional analysis.
• Set up methods at the industry partner site and provide training.
• Analyse experimental data using appropriate statistical methods.
• Report progress and data to the Principal Investigator.
• Assist in preparing papers for publication.
• Actively contribute to the principles of the Sheffield Academic, including excellence in teaching, research, and value to the University.
• Make ethical decisions that embed the University sustainability strategy into work activities where possible.
• Carry out other duties commensurate with the grade and remit of the post.

Person Specification

• A good honours degree and postgraduate qualification or equivalent experience in biology or a related area (Essential).
• A PhD in biology or related field (Desirable).
• Experience in bench‑top chemistry methods such as in‑vitro gut‑intestinal digestion models (Essential).
• Experience in using digestion models for assessing nutrition outcomes (Desirable).
• Proven ability to establish new lab methods from literature and develop creative problem‑solving approaches (Essential).
• Strong understanding of enzyme activity kinetics (Essential).
• Experience working in chemistry/biochemistry labs (Essential).
• Experience analysing samples for metabolites or nutrients (Essential).
• Data management and analysis skills (Essential).
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills and strong interpersonal skills for liaising with external stakeholders (Essential).
• IT literacy across common applications including Word, Excel, Google, and Microsoft Teams (Essential).
• Excellent organisational skills, including assessment and organisation of resources, meeting deadlines, and managing workload (Essential).
• A flexible, reliable, and professional approach to work (Essential).

Further Information

• Grade: 7 (max point 7.3)
• Salary: £38,784 per annum pro rata (max point 7.3).
• Work arrangement: part‑time.
• Duration: 9‑month contract at 40% – to start in August or as soon as possible following interview; end 30 April 2027.
• Line manager: Senior Lecturer in Human Nutrition.
• Direct reports: none.
• Website: https://sheffield.ac.uk/smph.
• For informal enquiries about this job contact Dr Viren Ranawana, Senior Lecturer in Human Nutrition at viren.ranawana@sheffield.ac.uk.

Next steps in the recruitment process

It is anticipated that the selection process will take place on Monday 17 August 2026. This will consist of an interview. Candidates will be informed of progress to the selection stage by early August 2026. If you need any support, equipment or adjustments to enable participation in any element of the recruitment process, please contact Karen Johnson at karen.johnson@sheffield.ac.uk.

Our vision and strategic plan

We are the University of Sheffield, with a vision for building a diverse community that values the abilities, backgrounds, beliefs and ways of living for everyone. (Brief reference to vision link: https://sheffield.ac.uk/vision.)

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 (e.g., 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, including 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.

We are a Disability Confident Leader. If you have a disability and meet the essential criteria for this job you will be invited to the next stage of the selection process.

Closing Date: 02 August 2026.

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