Research Associate in Stem Cell Biology

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We are seeking an independent and motivated Research Associate to work on a BBSRC‑funded project. This position is available in the laboratory of Professor Ivana Barbaric at the University of Sheffield, in close collaboration with the group of Professor Sarah McClelland at the Barts Cancer Institute in London.

Our group has been studying the causes and consequences of aneuploidy in human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs), and the implications of recurrent aneuploidies for applications of hPSCs in regenerative medicine. In the advertised project, we will study the acute and long‑term cellular and molecular responses of hPSCs and their differentiated derivative cells to specific aneuploidies and explore how these adaptive mechanisms may be manipulated to reduce the level of aneuploidy in cells.

The candidate for this post will hold a PhD (or be close to completion/have equivalent post‑doctoral level work experience) in the areas of cell or developmental biology along with experience in hPSC culture and differentiation. The candidate must be self‑motivated, well‑organised, highly independent, and willing to work with other members of the existing research team. Excellent communication, written and interpersonal skills are also essential.

• Conduct personal research of international standing within the remit of the project, including literature review and critical assessment.
• Define novel research objectives as experiments progress and initiate relevant programmes of research.
• Disseminate research findings through papers for high‑quality journals and presentations at national or international conferences and seminars.
• Manage time, materials, finance and equipment efficiently.
• Provide support to the PI for research proposals and funding applications.
• Supervise or co‑supervise undergraduate/postgraduate project students and/or PhD students; delegate and monitor the work of research students.
• Respond to reactive requests relating to supervision of research staff and students.
• Participate in consortium meetings and seminars, in particular with collaborators.
• Plan up to several months in advance to meet deadlines for journal publications and to prepare presentations and papers for collaboration meetings and conferences.
• As a member of staff, you will be encouraged to make ethical decisions in your role, embedding the University sustainability strategy into your working activities wherever appropriate.
• 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. Even if your past experience does not 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.

• PhD (or equivalent post‑doctoral level work experience) in cell or developmental biology, or a related field.
• Experience with culture and differentiation of human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs).
• Experience in qPCR and immunostaining/imaging techniques.
• Effective communication skills, both written and verbal, report writing skills, experience of delivering presentations.
• Excellent record keeping and data management skills, with appropriate IT experience.
• Ability to analyse and solve problems with an appreciation of longer‑term implications, working flexibly according to the…