Research Associate - intersection of mitochondrial genetics and human embryogenesis

Overview

We are seeking a highly motivated and talented Research Associate to join the laboratory of Professor Ivana Barbaric at the University of Sheffield. This MRC‑funded role investigates the intersection of mitochondrial genetics and human embryogenesis, in close collaboration with Professor Tristan Rodriguez’s group at Imperial College London.

• Conduct personal research of international standing into the study remit, including literature review and knowledge updates.
• Determine novel research objectives and implement relevant experimental programmes.
• Disseminate findings through papers for high‑quality journals and presentations at conferences or 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 and/or PhD students.
• Delegate and monitor the work of research students and respond to supervisory requests.
• Participate in consortium meetings and seminars, especially with collaborators.
• Plan several months in advance to meet deadlines for publications and collaborative meetings.
• Apply ethical decisions in line with the University sustainability strategy.
• Carry out other duties commensurate with the grade and remit of the post.

• PhD (or close to completion) in cell/developmental biology, mitochondrial genetics, or a related field.
• Specialist research experience with either culture and differentiation of human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) or mitochondrial biology (mtDNA mutations, metabolic profiling).
• Experience in qPCR, immunostaining/imaging techniques, and flow cytometry.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, report‑writing skills and experience of delivering presentations.
• Strong record‑keeping and data management skills, with appropriate IT experience.
• Ability to analyse and solve problems with an appreciation of longer‑term implications.
• Ability to assess and organise resources, plan and progress work activities.
• Capacity to keep up to date with ongoing research in related areas.
• Flexibility to work according to experimental demands and equipment availability.

Grade: 7

Salary: £38,784 – £39,906 per annum

Work arrangement:
Full‑time (100% FTE)

Duration:
Fixed‑term, available immediately with an end date of 28 February 2029

Line manager:
Professor of Stem Cell Biology

Contact:
Professor Ivana Barbaric ()

Disability confident leader – applicants with a disability meeting the essential criteria will be invited to the next stage of the selection process.

• Minimum of 41 days annual leave (pro‑rated) with the option to purchase additional days.
• Flexible working opportunities, including hybrid working for some roles.
• A generous pension scheme.
• Access to a variety of staff discounts and rewards on shopping, eating out and travel.
• Staff networks offering peer support and personal development (e.g., Race Equality, LGBT+, Women’s and Parent’s networks).
• Recognition awards for exceptional performance.
• Family‑friendly policies such as paid time off for parenting and caring emergencies, menopause support, fertility treatment support, and more.