At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a dynamic team to explore cutting-edge research in spatial biology and AI-driven mechanobiology.
- Company: Be part of the NEOPATH research group at the University of Sheffield, focused on innovative cancer research.
- Benefits: Enjoy 41+ days of annual leave, flexible working, and a generous pension scheme.
- Other info: Collaborate with experts and contribute to groundbreaking research in a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in cancer diagnostics and personalised medicine while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: PhD or equivalent experience in molecular biology, bioinformatics, or related fields required.
The predicted salary is between 38784 - 39906 € per year.
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:
- PhD (or equivalent experience) in a relevant subject area such as molecular biology, cell biology, cancer biology, bioinformatics, or computational pathology – Essential
- Undergraduate degree in a relevant biological, biomedical, or computational discipline – Essential
- Proven ability to conduct independent research and evidence of outputs (e.g. publications, presentations) – Essential
- Demonstrated experience in tissue culture and/or molecular and/or cellular biology techniques (e.g. RNA/protein extraction, tissue processing, multiplex imaging analysis) – Essential
- Experience in computational analysis of biological data (e.g. transcriptomics, spatial omics, image analysis) – Essential
- Proficiency in R or Python for the development of predictive models incorporating spatial and biophysical variables – Desirable
- Ability to integrate experimental and computational data – Essential
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills – Essential
- Strong teamworking and time‑management skills – Essential
- Demonstrated experience with spatial transcriptomics and multiplex platforms (e.g. Visium, Xenium, Cell Dive) – Essential
- Familiarity with digital pathology, bio‑image, bio‑informatics analysis platforms (e.g. QuPath, HALO, CellProfiler) – Essential
- Experience of engagement with stakeholders (e.g. PPIE, clinicians, charities) – Desirable
- Familiarity with translational cancer research – Essential
Further Information:
- Grade: 7
- Salary: £38,784 - £39,906
- Work arrangement: Full‑time
- Duration: 1 June 2026 for 24 months
- Line manager: Principal Investigator
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.
We are a Disability Confident Employer.
Research Associate in Multimodal Spatial Omics and AI-Driven Mechanobiology in Sheffield employer: Diversity Dashboard
The University of Sheffield offers an exceptional work environment for the Research Associate role, characterised by a commitment to innovation in cancer research and a supportive, multidisciplinary team culture. Employees benefit from generous annual leave, flexible working arrangements, and a range of family-friendly policies, alongside opportunities for professional growth through engagement with leading experts in the field. This role not only contributes to meaningful advancements in precision medicine but also fosters a sense of belonging within a diverse community dedicated to making a real clinical impact.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Associate in Multimodal Spatial Omics and AI-Driven Mechanobiology in Sheffield
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the field of spatial biology and mechanobiology. Attend relevant conferences or seminars, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself to potential collaborators or mentors.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Prepare a portfolio showcasing your previous research projects, especially those involving high-plex in situ profiling or computational analysis. This will help you stand out during interviews and discussions.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or colleagues to refine your responses, especially around your experience with tissue culture and molecular techniques. The more comfortable you are, the better you'll perform!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We love seeing applications directly from candidates who are genuinely interested in joining our team. Make sure to highlight how your unique background aligns with our mission in cancer research.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate in Multimodal Spatial Omics and AI-Driven Mechanobiology in Sheffield
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your relevant skills and experiences that match the job description. We want to see how your background in molecular biology or computational analysis fits into our exciting research at NEOPATH!
Show Off Your Research Skills:Don’t forget to showcase any independent research you've conducted, especially if it led to publications or presentations. We love seeing evidence of your ability to generate and analyse data, so make it stand out!
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. Use straightforward language to explain your experiences and how they relate to the role. We appreciate good communication skills, so let your writing reflect that!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us without any hiccups. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Diversity Dashboard
✨Know Your Research
Before the interview, dive deep into the NEOPATH research group's work. Familiarise yourself with their projects, especially those related to spatial biology and mechanobiology. Being able to discuss specific studies or findings will show your genuine interest and understanding of the field.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Prepare to discuss your experience in wet-lab experimentation and computational analysis. Bring examples of your previous work, such as publications or presentations, that highlight your ability to integrate experimental and computational data. This will demonstrate your fit for the role.
✨Engage with the Team
Since this role involves collaboration, be ready to talk about your teamwork experiences. Share examples of how you've worked with multidisciplinary teams in the past, and express your enthusiasm for contributing to a supportive research environment.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the project and the team dynamics. Inquire about the specific challenges they face in integrating multimodal datasets or how they envision the role evolving. This shows your proactive attitude and eagerness to contribute meaningfully.
