At a Glance
- Tasks: Develop innovative human disease models using cutting-edge stem cell technologies.
- Company: Join a leading interdisciplinary research initiative with global partners.
- Benefits: Access to world-class facilities, strong mentorship, and generous holiday allowance.
- Other info: Vibrant, inclusive research environment with excellent career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in understanding complex diseases and advancing therapeutic discovery.
- Qualifications: PhD/DPhil in relevant discipline with hands-on experience in stem cell models.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 45000 £ per year.
We are seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Associate (PDRA) to join the MIMIC programme: “An interconnected multi‑organ platform to recreate the complex pathophysiology of Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD)”, a major UKRI-funded, interdisciplinary research initiative involving leading academic, clinical, and industrial partners across the UK, Europe, and the USA. MASLD is a complex multisystem metabolic disease involving pathological cross‑talk between the liver, adipose tissue, gut, and immune system. The MIMIC programme aims to develop human, immunocompetent, patient‑derived multi‑organ models, using induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and organ‑on‑chip technologies, to better understand disease mechanisms and accelerate therapeutic discovery.
This PDRA post focuses on the development and characterisation of iPSC‑derived adipose tissue models and their integration into multi‑tissue platforms.
The Role
The successful candidate will play a central role in contributing to the generation of biomimetic, immunocompetent adipose tissue constructs derived from human iPSCs. Working closely with stem cell biologists, immunologists, and bioengineers across the MIMIC consortium, the PDRA will:
- Develop and optimise iPSC‑derived adipocyte differentiation protocols
- Generate 3D adipose tissue organoids incorporating stromal, endothelial, and immune cell populations
- Perform in‑depth molecular, phenotypic and metabolic characterisation of adipose models
- Investigate inflammatory and metabolic dysfunction relevant to MASLD
This role provides an exceptional opportunity to work at the cutting edge of human disease modelling, immunometabolism, and regenerative medicine within a large, well‑funded collaborative programme.
About you
You will hold a PhD/DPhil or equivalent in a relevant discipline along with:
- Strong hands‑on experience of stem cell-derived models
- Demonstrated expertise in adipose tissue biology and adipocyte differentiation
- Experience with 3D cell culture, organoid systems, or co‑culture models
- Solid grounding in molecular and cellular biology techniques
- Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a large interdisciplinary programme
What we offer
An exciting post within a high‑profile UKRI‑funded research programme. Access to world‑class facilities and international collaborators. Strong mentorship and career development, including training and conference support. Opportunities for collaboration, secondments, and interdisciplinary skills development. A generous holiday allowance as well as additional university closure days. A vibrant, inclusive, and supportive research environment.
We are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and welcome applicants who support our mission of inclusivity.
Research Fellow in In Vitro Models of Human Disease in Southampton employer: University of South Hampton
The University of Southampton is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering a culture of inclusion, respect, and equality. With a generous holiday allowance, additional closure days, and a commitment to flexible working, we support our staff in achieving a healthy work-life balance while providing opportunities for professional growth within the education sector. Join us in creating a vibrant environment where you can truly bring your whole self to work and make a meaningful impact on prospective students' lives.
Contact Details:
University of South Hampton Recruitment Team
