Research Associate in Physiological ex vivo models in Sheffield

A multidisciplinary team led by Prof. Cheryl Miller at the University of Sheffield is conducting a research program to translate new medical device technology based on nanoscale hydroxyapatite into a treatment for medication‑related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ). The program will evaluate zinc‑substituted nano hydroxyapatite in vitro and ex vivo, using tissue‑culture systems, bone and mucosal models, and clinically relevant bacterial isolates. The role is to support this translational research in collaboration with the Faculty of Engineering and the Faculty of Health.

Main Duties And Responsibilities

• Conduct research aligned with the project’s objectives.
• Contribute to development of ex vivo/tissue‑engineered 3D in vitro integrated model systems for bone and mucosal membranes for the testing of biomaterial interaction.
• Develop co‑culture systems of bone/mucosal membrane with polymicrobial communities.
• Perform downstream outcome assessments including biochemical analysis, histology/immunohistochemistry and functional assays to determine the efficacy of novel biomaterials.
• Engage and interact with Patient and Public Involvement and Engagement (PPIE) groups to strengthen the research and ensure it is clinically relevant and patient‑focused.
• Work independently and collaboratively as part of the MRONJ research group, planning and scheduling a detailed programme of work and resources within each stage of the project.
• Maintain accurate and detailed records of all research activity, including wet‑lab protocols, data acquisition processes, and analysis.
• Adhere to Health & Safety policies and prepare CoSHH, risk assessments and SOPs documentation.
• Liaise regularly with work package leads and investigators, contributing to team meetings and strategic discussions.
• Prepare and deliver presentations for internal meetings, collaborators, and external audiences such as conferences.
• Undertake literature reviews to ensure the project is informed by the latest developments.
• Contribute to manuscript preparation, technical reports, and future funding applications.
• Commit to responsible research principles, research ethics and integrity policies and sustainability practices.
• Support students and other postdoctoral researchers.
• Carry out other duties commensurate with the grade and remit of the post.

Qualifications and Experience

• Have a PhD in a relevant discipline area.
• Knowledge of relevant systems, policies, legislation (e.g. Health and safety) and quality standards.
• Excellent numeracy skills and the ability to analyze complex quantitative data using statistical methods.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and collaboratively, on projects and within multidisciplinary teams.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills, report‑writing experience and ability to deliver presentations.
• Technical expertise in mammalian cell culture, including 3D and tissue culture.
• Technical expertise in histological, immunohistochemical and RNA analysis.
• Experience handling human tissues and cells in accordance with the Human Tissue Act and knowledge of research ethics and integrity.
• Technical expertise in polymicrobial culture and analysis.

Desirable Criteria

• Technical expertise in ELISA or Luminex.
• Experience engaging with medical device stakeholders such as industry, PPIE and clinicians.

Job Details

• Grade: 7.3‑7.5
• Salary: £38,784 – £41,064
• Work arrangement: Full‑time
• Duration: 39 months
• Line manager: Co‑Investigator & Work package lead
• Direct reports: None

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.