Research Associate in MND disease modelling in Sheffield

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Postdoctoral Research Associate in the Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN). SITraN is a purpose-built research facility which was opened in November 2010 by Her Majesty the Queen and awarded the Queen’s Anniversary prize for higher education in 2020 in recognition of having made an outstanding positive impact in patients’ lives from Neuroscience research. The Institute houses clinical and basic scientists from the Division of Neuroscience and the primary focus is research into neurodegenerative disorders such as motor neurone disease (MND), Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease.

We are seeking an enthusiastic and experienced postdoctoral research associate to join an exciting translational research project to assess mechanisms of disease and potential new therapeutic approaches using in vitro model systems incorporating motor neuron, astrocyte, muscle co-cultures.

• Design, set-up and run experiments in relation to the project after consultation with the Principal Investigator.
• Demonstrate a high level of competence in in vitro techniques, particularly human cells, immunocytochemistry, imaging and cell-based assays.
• Demonstrate a high level of competence in molecular and cellular biology techniques, particularly gene and protein expression analysis in neurons and immunohistochemistry.
• Keep excellent scientific records and analyze and interpret experimental data, prepare reports and participate in conference calls with the funding body.
• Prepare papers for journals/presentations either in-house or at national/international conferences or seminars to disseminate research findings.
• Write and document lab procedures, protocols and study design.
• Undertake other tasks related to the project as requested by the line manager.
• Read academic papers, journals and textbooks and attend conferences to keep abreast of relevant scientific developments in the field.
• Provide help to other researchers in the same laboratory in related fields of research, co-ordinate activities with other group members and industrial partners.
• Plan for specific aspects of the research programme as discussed with the supervisor of the project.
• Assist in the day-to-day management and delivery of the project.
• For each particular hypothesis, plan for own contribution up to three months ahead, incorporating issues such as the availability of resources, deadlines, project milestones and overall research aims.
• Design individual experiments weekly.
• Supervise research team/activities including the work of graduate students if required.
• Continuously monitor and check results.
• Order all reagents/consumables required for the experimental work.
• Liaise with staff from other Departments or outside agencies.
• Make ethical decisions in your role, embedding the University sustainability strategy into your working activities wherever possible.
• Carry out other duties, commensurate with the grade and remit of the post.

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. Please ensure that you reference the application criteria in the application statement when you apply.

• A PhD (or equivalent experience) in motor neuron disease modelling, molecular or cellular biology, or neuroscience research - Essential
• Experience of co-culture systems relevant to motor neuron disease - Essential
• Generic IT skills, including the ability to use statistical programs (Graph Pad Prism), in addition to Microsoft Office suite - Essential
• Experience of designing experiments, collecting and analysing data and experience in statistical methods and analysis - Essential
• Knowledge of and compliance with good laboratory practice - Essential
• Awareness of laboratory safety and general laboratory competence - Essential
• Effective communication skills, both written and verbal, report writing skills, experience of delivering presentations - Essential
• Ability to work independently as well as part of a multidisciplinary team to meet deadlines - Essential
• Attention to detail and a proven ability to keep accurate and reliable records - Essential
• Good organizational and time management skills - Essential
• Experience of working with human iPSCs in the context of neuroscience - Essential
• Ability to develop creative approaches to problem solving - Desirable

Grade 7
Salary £38,784 to £39,906 per annum
Work arrangement Full-Time 35 hours per week
Duration 1 March 2026 to 28 February 2028
Line manager Professor of Neurology/Director of SITraN
Direct reports N/A

• 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.
• 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.
• A range of generous family-friendly policies.

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.

Closing Date: 18/02/2026