Research Associate (Stem Cell/Cancer Biology)

Overview

Research Associate (Stem Cell/Cancer Biology) – The University of Sheffield

We are seeking an independent and motivated postdoctoral Research Associate to work on a Children\\\’s Cancer and Leukaemia Group/Little Princess Trust-funded project at the interface of stem cell biology and disease modelling. The successful applicant will employ human pluripotent stem cell (hPSC)-based models and in vitro differentiation to dissect the links between chromosomal copy number alterations, DNA damage/repair and neuroblastoma initiation. Applicants must hold a PhD in a subject related to stem cell/developmental biology (or have equivalent experience) along with experience in culture and neural differentiation of hPSCs, immunocytochemistry/imaging, flow cytometry and qPCR. Excellent interpersonal, written and communication skills, and ability to work to a high standard are also essential.

Base pay and benefits

This range is provided by The University of Sheffield. Your actual pay will be based on your skills and experience; talk with your recruiter to learn more.

Salary: £38,784 – £41,064 per annum

Work arrangement: Full-time (100% FTE)

Duration: Fixed term for a period of six months (available immediately)

Line manager: Senior Lecturer/Research group leader

Direct reports: None

Main duties and responsibilities

• Conduct personal research of international standing into the above-mentioned remit for the study. Identify literature, update knowledge, assess validity and its contribution to the development of the field.
• Determine novel research objectives as experiments progress and initiate and implement relevant programme of research.
• Disseminate research findings through production of papers for high quality journals and presentations at in-house or national/international conferences or seminars.
• Efficiently manage time, materials, finance and equipment.
• Provide support to the PI 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 supervision of research staff and students.
• Participate in consortium meetings and seminars, particularly with collaborators.
• Plan ahead to meet deadlines for journal publications and to prepare presentations and papers for collaboration meetings and conferences.
• Embed ethical decision-making and the University sustainability strategy in working activities wherever possible.
• Carry out other duties commensurate with the grade and remit of the post.

Person specification and qualifications

• Essential – A PhD in an area related to stem cell/developmental biology (or equivalent experience).
• Essential – Experience with culture and neural differentiation of human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs).
• Essential – Experience in qPCR, flow cytometry and immunocytochemistry/imaging techniques.
• Essential – Excellent written and verbal communication, and ability to deliver presentations.
• Essential – Experience of working as part of a collaborative team and willingness to supervise PhD and undergraduate students.
• Essential – Excellent record keeping and data management skills with appropriate IT experience.
• Essential – Ability to analyse and solve problems with appreciation of longer-term implications; ability to organise resources and plan progress; ability to stay up to date with ongoing research.
• Essential – Ability to work flexibly according to the biological demands of the experimental system and equipment availability.
• Desirable – Knowledge of neuroblastoma/neural crest biology.

Other information

Funding and environment: This is a funded project within the School of Biosciences, University of Sheffield. Contact for informal enquiries: Anestis Tsakiridis (a.tsakiridis@sheffield.ac.uk).

Next steps: Closing Date: 29/09/2025. The selection process will involve an interview with shortlisted candidates. If you require any support or adjustments to participate in the recruitment process, please contact bioscienceshradmin@sheffield.ac.uk.

What we offer

• A minimum of 41 days annual leave (including bank holidays and closure days, pro rata) with the option to purchase more
• Flexible working opportunities, including hybrid working for some roles
• Generous pension scheme
• Discounts and rewards on shopping, eating out and travel
• Staff networks for social interaction, peer support and development (e.g., Race Equality, LGBT+, Women’s and Parents networks)
• Recognition Awards for exceptional performance
• Development opportunities, including access to learning and mentoring schemes
• 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. If you have a disability and meet the essential criteria, you will be invited to participate in the next stage of the selection process.

We are a research university with a global reputation for excellence. Closing Date: 29/09/2025.