At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct groundbreaking research on mitochondrial genetics and human embryogenesis.
- Company: Join the University of Sheffield's innovative research team led by Professor Ivana Barbaric.
- Benefits: Enjoy 41 days annual leave, flexible working, and a generous pension scheme.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse community that values your unique contributions and fosters belonging.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in fundamental discovery science with implications for health and medicine.
- Qualifications: PhD (or near completion) in relevant fields and experience in stem cell culture or mitochondrial biology.
The predicted salary is between 38784 - 39906 € per year.
The University of Sheffield is seeking a highly motivated Research Associate to join the laboratory of Professor Ivana Barbaric. The MRC‑funded role investigates the intersection of mitochondrial genetics and human embryogenesis in collaboration with Professor Tristan Rodriguez’s group at Imperial College London. The successful candidate will explore how mitochondrial DNA mutations influence cellular signalling pathways and tissue patterning during the earliest stages of human development, contributing to fundamental discovery science with implications for mitochondrial diseases and regenerative medicine.
Main Duties and Responsibilities
- Conduct independent research of international standing in the stated remit, identifying and updating literature, and assessing its relevance to your own work.
- Define new research objectives as experiments progress and initiate and implement a relevant research programme.
- Disseminate research findings through publication in high‑quality peer‑reviewed journals and presentations at national/international conferences or seminars.
- Manage time, materials, finances and equipment efficiently.
- Provide support to the Principal Investigator 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 the supervision of research staff and students.
- Participate in consortium meetings and seminars, especially with collaborators.
- Plan several months in advance to meet deadlines for journal publications and to prepare presentations and papers for collaborative meetings and conferences.
- Make ethical decisions in your role, embedding the university sustainability strategy into your working activities.
- Carry out other duties commensurate with the grade and remit of the post.
Essential Qualifications
- PhD (or close to completion) in cell/developmental biology, mitochondrial genetics or a related field.
- Specialist research experience (at least one) in: (i) culture and differentiation of human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs); or (ii) mitochondrial biology (e.g. mtDNA mutations, metabolic profiling).
- Experience in qPCR and immunostaining/imaging techniques.
- Experience in flow cytometry.
- Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, and a proven record of delivering presentations.
- Excellent record‑keeping and data‑management skills with appropriate IT experience.
- Analytical and problem‑solving ability, with an appreciation of longer‑term implications.
- Resource assessment and organisation skills, capable of planning and progressing work activities.
- Ability to keep up to date with ongoing research related to current projects.
- Flexibility to work according to experimental demands and equipment availability.
Desirable Qualifications
- Experience in multi‑omics approaches (e.g., single‑cell RNA‑seq, ATAC‑seq, or metabolomics).
Other Information
- Salary: £38,784 – £39,906 per annum (Grade 7).
- Job type: Full‑time (100 % FTE).
- Duration: Fixed‑term, available immediately with an end date of 28 February 2029.
- Line manager: Professor of Stem Cell Biology.
- Reports to: None.
- Closing date: 26 May 2026.
Benefits
- A minimum of 41 days annual leave (including bank holidays) with the option to purchase additional days.
- Flexible working opportunities, including hybrid working.
- Generous pension scheme.
- Retail discounts and rewards.
- Staff network participation – e.g. Race Equality, LGBT+, Women’s, Parents’ networks.
- Recognition awards and family‑friendly policies (paid time off for parenting and caring emergencies, menopause support, fertility treatment support).
Our diverse community recognises the unique abilities, backgrounds and beliefs of all staff and students. We foster a culture where everyone feels they belong and is respected. Even if your past experience does not match perfectly, your contribution is valuable – please apply. We are a Disability Confident Leader. If you have a disability and meet the essential criteria, you will be invited to proceed to the next stage of the selection process.
Research Associate - intersection of mitochondrial genetics and human embryogenesis employer: The University of Sheffield
The University of Sheffield is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and inclusive work culture that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth. With generous benefits such as a minimum of 41 days annual leave, flexible working options, and a commitment to diversity, staff are empowered to thrive both personally and professionally while contributing to groundbreaking research in mitochondrial genetics and human embryogenesis.
Contact Detail:
The University of Sheffield Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Associate - intersection of mitochondrial genetics and human embryogenesis
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the field of mitochondrial genetics and human embryogenesis. Attend conferences, seminars, or even casual meet-ups to chat with researchers and professors. You never know who might have a lead on a job or can put in a good word for you!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your research skills! Prepare a portfolio showcasing your past projects, publications, and presentations. When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, having tangible evidence of your work can really set you apart from the crowd.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply – engage! When you find a position that excites you, reach out to the hiring manager or team members via LinkedIn. Ask insightful questions about the role or the research being conducted. This shows genuine interest and can help you stand out in the application process.
✨Tip Number 4
Keep an eye on our website! We regularly post new opportunities that might be perfect for you. Applying directly through our site not only makes it easier for us to track your application but also shows your enthusiasm for joining our team at StudySmarter.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate - intersection of mitochondrial genetics and human embryogenesis
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience in mitochondrial genetics and human embryogenesis. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your expertise!
Show Off Your Research Skills:Since this role involves independent research, be sure to emphasise your previous research projects and any publications. We love seeing candidates who can demonstrate their ability to conduct high-quality research and contribute to scientific discovery.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon where possible. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see your qualifications and enthusiasm for the role.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our team there.
How to prepare for a job interview at The University of Sheffield
✨Know Your Research Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the latest literature related to mitochondrial genetics and human embryogenesis. Familiarise yourself with key studies, especially those that align with the work of Professor Barbaric and Professor Rodriguez. This will not only show your enthusiasm but also help you engage in meaningful discussions during the interview.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Given the technical nature of the role, be ready to discuss your experience with techniques like qPCR, immunostaining, and flow cytometry. Brush up on your knowledge of these methods and think about how you've applied them in past research. Being able to articulate your hands-on experience will demonstrate your capability and confidence.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since excellent communication is essential for this position, prepare to discuss how you’ve effectively communicated your research findings in the past. Think of examples where you’ve presented at conferences or published papers. Practising your responses can help you convey your ideas clearly and confidently.
✨Demonstrate Your Organisational Skills
The role requires managing time, materials, and finances efficiently. Be prepared to share specific examples of how you’ve planned and executed research projects, met deadlines, and managed resources. Highlighting your organisational skills will reassure the interviewers that you can handle the responsibilities of the position.
