At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a dynamic team to explore how transcription factors influence B cell function and blood cancers.
- Company: University of Birmingham, a leader in medical research and innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and opportunities for teaching and leadership.
- Other info: Embrace diversity and sustainability in a collaborative workplace focused on innovation.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in cancer research while developing your skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: PhD or near completion in relevant fields like chromatin biology or cancer biology.
The predicted salary is between 36636 - 46049 £ per year.
Department of Cancer and Genomic Sciences, School of Medical Sciences, College of Medicine and Health
Location: University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham UK
Full time starting salary is normally in the range £36,636 to £46,049 with potential progression once in post to £48,822
Grade: 7 Full Time, Fixed Term contract up to February 2030
Closing date: 6th December 2026
Background
We are seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate to join the group of Dr. Tianyi Zhang based in the Department of Cancer and Genomic Sciences, to investigate how hematopoietic transcription factors and epigenetic regulators control B cell function and how their dysregulation contributes to blood cancers. This is a Wellcome Trust funded position available for 3 years in the first instance, with possibility of extension. The successful postdoctoral researcher will identify key interactions between TFs and chromatin modifiers in B-cells and dissect their functional dependencies in cellular and primary cancer models. They will drive their independent research project while working as part of a collaborative and supportive team.
We welcome applications from candidates with strong backgrounds in one or more of the following areas: chromatin biology, protein biochemistry, structural biology, genomics, proteomics, cell and cancer biology. A willingness to learn and develop new techniques and enthusiasm for collaborative research is essential. This post offers excellent opportunity for personal and professional development within teaching and fellowship development, and leadership.
Role Summary
- Work within specified research grants and projects and contribute to writing bids
- Operate within area of specialism
- Analyse and interpret research findings and results
- Contribute to generating funding
- Contribute to licensing or spin out deals with demonstrated commercial success (such as revenues, asset or company sales, IP generated) and/or public understanding of the discipline or similar
Main Duties
- Develop research objectives and design experiments and proposals for own or joint research, with assistance of a mentor if required
- Contribute to writing bids for research funding
- Analyse and interpret data, research findings and results
- Apply knowledge in a way which develops new intellectual understanding
- Disseminate research findings for publication, research seminars etc.
- Contribute to developing new models and techniques
- Supervise and train students in research, writing, and presentation
- Contribute to developing new models, techniques and methods
- Undertake management/administration arising from research
- Contribute to Departmental research, community, and public engagement activities
- Present research at seminars, conferences and drafting academic publications
- Contribute to ideas, data, and writing bids for research funding
- Collect research data; this may be through a variety of research methods, such as scientific experimentation, literature reviews, and research interviews
- Contribute to enterprise, business development and/or public engagement activities of manifest benefit to the College and the University, often under supervision of a project leader
- Resolve problems that may affect the achievement of research objectives and deadlines
- Foster a fair and equitable workplace for all staff
- Provide guidance, as required, to support staff and any students who may be assisting with the research
- Deal with problems that may affect the achievement of research objectives and deadlines
- Identify and respond to equality and diversity issues in line with relevant university policies and procedures
Person Specification
- A PhD degree (or near completion) in a relevant research area, i.e. chromatin biology, protein biochemistry, structural biology, genomics, proteomics, and cancer biology
- Demonstrable research experience and/or detailed knowledge of gene and epigenetic regulation and chromatin biology
- Evidence of leading a research project through to completion, demonstrated by a first-author publication, manuscript in preparation or under review
- A strong academic track record (i.e. publications, conference poster or talks, service, public engagement) appropriate to career stage
- High level analytical and problem-solving capability
- Ability to communicate complex information clearly, in writing and in presentations
- Fluency in relevant models and methods and ability to contribute to developing new ones
- Ability to assess resource requirements and use resources effectively
- Understanding of and ability to contribute to broader management/administration processes
- Contribute to the planning and organising of the research programme and/or specific research project
- Co-ordinate own work with others to avoid conflict or duplication of effort
- Knowledge of the protected characteristics and duties under the Equality Act 2010, including fostering good relations and advancing the universities Public Sector Equality Duty (PSED)
Further particulars can be found here.
Informal enquiries to Tianyi Zhang, email:
Use of AI in applications: We want to understand your genuine interest in the role and for the written elements of your application to accurately reflect your own communication style. Applications that rely too heavily on AI tools can appear generic and lack the detail we need to assess your skills and experience. Such applications will unlikely be progressed to interview.
We believe there is no such thing as a 'typical' member of University of Birmingham staff and that diversity in its many forms is a strength that underpins the exchange of ideas, innovation and debate at the heart of University life. We are committed to proactively addressing the barriers experienced by some groups in our community and are proud to hold Athena SWAN, Race Equality Charter and Disability Confident accreditations. We have an Equality Diversity and Inclusion Centre that focuses on continuously improving the University as a fair and inclusive place to work where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. We are also committed to sustainability, which is a key part of our strategy. You can find out more about our work to create a fairer university for everyone on our website.
Research Fellow - Department of Cancer and Genomic Sciences - 108203 - Grade 7 in Birmingham employer: University of Birmingham
The University of Birmingham is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant academic environment that fosters innovation and collaboration. With a strong commitment to employee development, the School of Chemistry provides ample opportunities for career advancement and leadership roles, all while being situated in a dynamic city known for its rich cultural heritage and supportive community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Fellow - Department of Cancer and Genomic Sciences - 108203 - Grade 7 in Birmingham
✨Get Involved in Research Communities
Dive headfirst into the scientific research world by joining relevant communities and forums. Engage in discussions, share your insights, and even attend conferences or seminars in your field. This not only boosts your visibility but can also lead to potential job opportunities—don't forget to connect with like-minded folks!
✨Show Off Your Research Projects
Have you worked on any cool research projects? Make it easy for potential employers to see your work by creating a portfolio or a personal website. This way, when you apply for roles like the one at University of Birmingham, you can point them to your projects and publications, showcasing your expertise directly.
✨Utilise Professional Networks
Networking is key in scientific research. Join professional bodies or organisations related to your field. They often have job boards and resources tailored for job seekers. Make connections with professionals who may know about openings or can give you tips on landing a full-time position.
✨Keep Your Eyes on Openings & Apply Directly
Don’t just rely on job boards! Keep an eye on the careers section of the websites of companies like University of Birmingham. Apply directly through their website because sometimes they post jobs there before anywhere else. Plus, it shows your proactive approach!
We think you need these skills to ace Research Fellow - Department of Cancer and Genomic Sciences - 108203 - Grade 7 in Birmingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Research Experience:When applying for a full-time role in scientific research, make sure to emphasise your research experience prominently in your CV. Share specific projects you’ve worked on, the methodologies you used, and any significant findings. If you’ve published papers or presented at conferences, definitely include that too – it shows you’re on it in the academic world!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Research Area:Your cover letter should reflect your passion for the specific area of research at University of Birmingham. Mention relevant experiences that align with the organisation’s goals or projects. This shows that you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in the position – plus, it helps us see how you’d fit into the team dynamics.
Showcase Your Data Analysis Skills:In scientific research, data analysis skills are a big deal! Make sure to detail any relevant analytical tools or software you’re familiar with, like R, Python, or statistical packages. Employers are keen to know you can handle the data-heavy elements of the role, so add specific examples where you’ve used these skills effectively.
Discuss Your Future Research Goals:In your motivation section, it’s a great idea to talk about your future research goals and how they align with the work being done at University of Birmingham. This shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but rather a chance to contribute meaningfully to the field. We love to see applicants who are forward-thinking and enthusiastic about their research journey!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Birmingham
✨Showcase Your Research Skills
In scientific research, it’s crucial to demonstrate your ability to design and conduct experiments. Come armed with examples of past projects where you've developed hypotheses, collected data, and analysed results. Be ready to discuss any specific methodologies or tools you’ve used, like PCR techniques or statistical software.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect some technical questions specific to your field. Make sure you're up to speed with recent advancements in scientific research related to the role at University of Birmingham. Brush up on concepts relevant to their projects and be prepared to discuss how you would approach a specific research problem or challenge they might face.
✨Know Your Publications
If you've authored or co-authored any papers, be prepared to discuss them! Highlighting your contributions to published research can really set you apart. It shows not only your expertise but also your ability to communicate complex ideas clearly, which is key in scientific research roles.
✨Exhibit Your Team Spirit
In full-time roles, collaboration is often at the heart of scientific research. Prepare examples that show how you've successfully worked in teams, dealt with conflicts, or contributed to group projects. We want to know how you can work effectively with the team at University of Birmingham to drive research projects forward.
