At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a dynamic team researching neurodegenerative diseases and develop innovative gene therapy approaches.
- Company: Be part of SITraN, a prestigious research institute making a real impact on patients' lives.
- Benefits: Enjoy 38 days annual leave, flexible working options, and a generous pension scheme.
- Other info: Opportunity for personal development and access to various staff networks.
- Why this job: Contribute to groundbreaking research while working in a supportive and inclusive environment.
- Qualifications: MSc/BSc in relevant fields and experience with in vivo handling and molecular biology techniques required.
The predicted salary is between 28000 - 32000 £ per year.
Overview
The Balasubramanian Lab within the Division of Clinical Medicine is seeking a dedicated Research Technician to join a high impact project focused on developing RNA therapy for HNRNPU- related Neurodevelopmental Disorder (HNRNPU-NDD). HNRNPU-NDD is caused by a haploinsufficiency of the HNRNPU gene, leading to a protein deficit that manifests clinically as intellectual disability, significant developmental and speech delays, and early‑onset epilepsy. This role centers on utilising human iPSCs‑derived neuronal models to screen and validate Antisense Oligonucleotides (ASOs) aimed at restoring normal HNRNPU levels to mitigate disease phenotypes. This role offers you the opportunity to multitask projects and contribute to the maintenance of the Balasubramanian Lab to promote productive and efficient high‑quality research. Educated to a Master’s level, you will have the commitment and drive to maintain iPSCs‑derived neuronal cultures and carry deep‑phenotyping and molecular analysis, requiring essential expertise in advanced cell culture and molecular biology, with a preference for those experienced in silico prediction modelling. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to translatable clinical interventions while refining skills in stem cell technology, data analysis, and project management within a productive, high‑quality research environment poised for peer‑reviewed publication.
Main Duties And Responsibilities
- Screening ASOs for HNRNPU in iPSCs‑derived neuronal models
- Perform imaging and phenotypic assays and high quality fluorescent imaging to assess ASOs effect on disease phenotypes.
- Perform molecular assays (e.g. qPCR, western blot) to understand the effect of these ASOs on HNRNPU gene expression.
- Culturing and maintaining iPSCs‑derived cultures.
- Analyse data and present at regular lab meetings.
- Assist with lab maintenance duties.
- Carry out other duties, commensurate with the grade and remit of the post.
Person Specification
Our diverse community of staff and students recognises the unique abilities, backgrounds, and beliefs of all. We foster a culture where everyone feels they belong and is respected. Even if your past experience doesn't match perfectly with this role's criteria, your contribution is valuable, and we encourage you to apply. Please ensure that you reference the application criteria in the application statement when you apply.
Criteria
- Essential: Post‑graduate qualification. Masters, in a relevant subject, e.g. molecular biology
- Essential: Experience in advanced cell culture models, e.g. Human iPSCs
- Essential: Experience in molecular biology techniques; such as qPCR and western blotting
- Essential: Experience in silico predictive modelling
- Desirable: Ability to organise workload and time management to meet deadlines
- Essential: Experience and willingness to assist with lab support, e.g. stock maintenance, ordering
- Desirable: Ability to multitask and handle several projects at once
- Essential: Ability to present data, with high quality written and verbal skills
- Essential: Keep high quality, detailed records of experiments and data
Further Information
- Grade: 5.1
- Salary: £27,319 per annum (pro‑rota)
- Work arrangement: Full‑time
- Duration: 01/09/2026 – 28/02/2027
- Line manager: Principal Investigator
- Direct reports: Research Associate
- Contact: For informal enquiries about this job contact Doaa Taha, Research Associate: d.m.taha@sheffield.ac.uk or 0114 2222 769
What We Offer
- A minimum of 38 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 commitment to your development access to learning and mentoring schemes; integrated with our Academic Career Pathways and Professional Services Shared Skills Framework.
- A range of generous family‑friendly policies
- Paid time off for parenting and caring emergencies
- Support for those going through 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 for this job you will be invited to take part in the next stage of the selection process.
Research Technician in Sheffield employer: The University of Sheffield
The Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN) is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that prioritises collaboration and innovation in the field of neurodegenerative research. With generous benefits including a minimum of 38 days annual leave, flexible working arrangements, and a strong commitment to employee development, SITraN fosters an inclusive environment where every team member can thrive and contribute meaningfully to groundbreaking research that impacts patients' lives. Located in a purpose-built facility recognised for its excellence, SITraN provides unique opportunities for professional growth and engagement in a community dedicated to advancing scientific knowledge.
Contact Details:
The University of Sheffield Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Technician in Sheffield
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific research projects at SITraN, especially those related to neurodegenerative diseases. Understanding the current work being done by Prof Hautbergue and his team will help you engage in meaningful conversations during the interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of SITraN if possible. They can provide insights into the team dynamics and expectations, which can be invaluable when preparing for your interview.
✨Tip Number 3
Brush up on your technical skills related to molecular and cellular biology techniques mentioned in the job description. Being able to discuss your hands-on experience with techniques like western blotting and qRT-PCR will demonstrate your readiness for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your approach to teamwork and collaboration. Since the role emphasises team spirit, think of examples from your past experiences where you contributed positively to a team environment.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Technician in Sheffield
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in neuroscience, biomedical sciences, or related fields. Emphasise your skills in in vivo handling of mice, tissue culture, and molecular biology techniques, as these are crucial for the role.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter:In your cover letter, express your passion for translational research in neurodegenerative diseases. Mention specific experiences that align with the job description, such as your work with patient-derived neurons or any relevant projects you've undertaken.
Address the Essential Criteria:When writing your application statement, directly reference the essential criteria listed in the job description. Provide concrete examples of how you meet each criterion, particularly your attention to detail and teamwork skills.
Proofread Your Application:Before submitting, thoroughly proofread your application for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are key attributes for this position.
How to prepare for a job interview at The University of Sheffield
✨Showcase Your Technical Skills
Be prepared to discuss your experience with in vivo handling of mice, tissue culture, and molecular biology techniques. Bring specific examples from your past work that demonstrate your proficiency in these areas.
✨Demonstrate Team Spirit
Highlight your ability to work effectively within a team. Share experiences where you contributed to group projects or supported colleagues, as this role requires strong collaboration with the research team.
✨Prepare for Health and Safety Questions
Understand the health and safety issues relevant to laboratory work. Be ready to discuss how you ensure compliance with safety protocols and how you can instil good practices within a team.
✨Communicate Clearly and Effectively
Practice articulating your thoughts clearly, both verbally and in writing. Effective communication is essential, so consider preparing a brief presentation on a relevant topic to showcase your skills during the interview.
