At a Glance
- Tasks: Engage in cutting-edge research on cholesterol metabolism and its impact on health.
- Company: Swansea University, a leading research institution with a focus on interdisciplinary collaboration.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, pension benefits, and excellent mentoring for career growth.
- Other info: Inclusive environment welcoming diverse applicants and promoting equality.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in health research while working with state-of-the-art technology.
- Qualifications: PhD in biochemistry, molecular biology, or related field; experience in biological mass spectrometry.
The predicted salary is between 39355 - 45413 £ per year.
General Description
Swansea University, a research‑led institution with a strong commitment to discovery and interdisciplinary scholarship, is recruiting a Research Officer (Postdoctoral Research Associate) within its Oxysterol Research Group. This fixed‑term, full‑time appointment runs until March 2028 and offers an opportunity to engage with cutting‑edge biological mass spectrometry techniques applied to sterol analysis. The successful candidate will contribute to research focused on cholesterol metabolism and its impact on human health and disease, particularly in the context of neurodegenerative and rare metabolic disorders. The role is embedded in a highly collaborative environment with access to state‑of‑the‑art instruments and extensive interdisciplinary networks spanning biologists, clinicians, and industry partners. The postholder will participate in the sterol biomarker discovery programme, presenting research findings at scientific conferences and publishing in leading journals, with excellent mentoring to support career progression. The position supports and promotes equality, diversity, and inclusion, and welcomes applications irrespective of background. Applicants may include Welsh language content and interview preferences where appropriate.
Eligibility Criteria
- A PhD (or equivalent) in a relevant discipline such as biochemistry, molecular biology, analytical chemistry, or a closely related field.
- Demonstrated research experience in biological mass spectrometry or related analytical approaches, ideally within biological or clinical research contexts.
- Capacity to work independently within a collaborative research team and contribute to programme goals.
Required Expertise/Skills
- Proficiency in biological mass spectrometry and sterol/oxysterol analysis, with the ability to generate high‑quality data.
- Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills, with experience in experimental design and interpretation.
- Excellent communication skills, including scientific writing for peer‑reviewed journals and presentations at conferences.
- Ability to liaise with diverse collaborators across biological, clinical, and industrial sectors.
Salary Details
The salary range for this post is £39,355 to £45,413 per annum, inclusive of USS pension benefits.
Application Deadline
Applications must be received by 17 March 2026.
Research Officer – Oxysterol PDRA in Swansea employer: RFCSR
Swansea University is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and inclusive work culture that fosters collaboration and innovation in research. As a Research Officer within the Oxysterol Research Group, you will have access to cutting-edge facilities and extensive interdisciplinary networks, providing ample opportunities for professional growth and impactful contributions to health-related research. The university's commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion ensures a supportive environment where all employees can thrive.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Officer – Oxysterol PDRA in Swansea
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at Swansea University, especially those in the Oxysterol Research Group. A friendly chat can give us insider info and might just put your name on the hiring manager's radar.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Prepare a mini-presentation or a poster about your research experience in biological mass spectrometry. This could be a great conversation starter during interviews and showcases your expertise in a creative way.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Get a friend or mentor to do mock interviews with you. Focus on articulating your research experience and how it aligns with the role. We want you to feel confident and ready to impress!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged with our platform.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Officer – Oxysterol PDRA in Swansea
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Research Officer role. Highlight your PhD and any relevant experience in biological mass spectrometry or related fields. We want to see how your skills align with our research goals!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about cholesterol metabolism and how your background makes you a great fit for our team. Keep it engaging and personal, so we can get to know you better.
Showcase Your Research Experience:Don’t forget to detail your research experience, especially any work with sterols or oxysterols. We love seeing examples of high-quality data you've generated and any publications or presentations you've been involved in!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into our hands quickly. Plus, it shows us you’re keen on joining our collaborative environment!
How to prepare for a job interview at RFCSR
✨Know Your Research Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in your own research and the specific projects related to the Oxysterol Research Group. Be prepared to discuss your previous work, especially any experience with biological mass spectrometry and cholesterol metabolism, as this will show your expertise and passion for the field.
✨Showcase Your Collaborative Spirit
Since the role is embedded in a collaborative environment, highlight your ability to work within teams. Share examples of past collaborations, particularly those involving biologists, clinicians, or industry partners, to demonstrate your capacity to contribute to interdisciplinary goals.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions that dive deep into your technical skills, especially around analytical chemistry and experimental design. Brush up on your knowledge of sterol/oxysterol analysis techniques and be ready to discuss how you’ve applied these in your research.
✨Practice Your Presentation Skills
Since presenting findings at conferences is part of the role, practice explaining your research clearly and concisely. You might even want to prepare a mini-presentation to showcase your communication skills, which are crucial for publishing in leading journals and liaising with diverse collaborators.