Research Associate; Human Nutrition

Overview

We have an exciting opportunity for a researcher with passion for multi‑disciplinary translational biomedical research in the field of human nutrition. The work is part of a NAPIC funded project that studies the nutritional potential of cultured meat. Identifying sustainable alternative proteins is essential for meeting future protein needs. Your role will involve assessing the protein quality and digestibility of cultured meat developed in the UK.

You will lead the development of an optimised gut‑intestine digestion model that mimics human digestion for assessing nutritional properties of cultured meat. This includes nutritional profiling, amino acid composition analyses, training industry partners on these methods and establishing the methods in their laboratories. The role also involves using immunological and biochemical methods to analyse nutrient samples, such as ELISA kits, and to optimise experimental protocols.

You should have a strong track record in laboratory research, bench‑top chemistry, and food analysis. A strong understanding of protein and enzyme chemistry, along with experience in establishing and optimising experimental methods, is essential. Applicants from biological sciences and lab backgrounds with a passion for nutrition and translational research are encouraged to apply. Strong communication and interpersonal skills are required to liaise with external collaborators.

• Lead the day‑to‑day running of the research project, including documentation and ordering consumables.
• Develop and optimise an in‑vitro gut‑intestinal digestion model for data collection.
• Conduct experiments measuring protein digestibility and quality in cultured meat samples.
• Analyse digesta samples and develop methods for estimating protein digestibility and quality.
• Liaise with the industry partner to obtain samples and assist with nutritional analysis.
• Set up methods at the industry partner site and provide training.
• Analyse experimental data using appropriate statistical methods.
• Report progress and data to the Principal Investigator.
• Assist in preparing papers for publication.
• Actively contribute to the principles of the Sheffield Academic, including excellence in teaching, research, and value to the University.
• Make ethical decisions that embed the University sustainability strategy into work activities where possible.
• Carry out other duties commensurate with the grade and remit of the post.

• A good honours degree and postgraduate qualification or equivalent experience in biology or a related area (Essential).
• A PhD in biology or related field (Desirable).
• Experience in bench‑top chemistry methods such as in‑vitro gut‑intestinal digestion models (Essential).
• Experience in using digestion models for assessing nutrition outcomes (Desirable).
• Proven ability to establish new lab methods from literature and develop creative problem‑solving approaches (Essential).
• Strong understanding of enzyme activity kinetics (Essential).
• Experience working in chemistry/biochemistry labs (Essential).
• Experience analysing samples for metabolites or nutrients (Essential).
• Data management and analysis skills (Essential).
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills and strong interpersonal skills for liaising with external stakeholders (Essential).
• IT literacy across common applications including Word, Excel, Google, and Microsoft Teams (Essential).
• Excellent organisational skills, including assessment and organisation of resources, meeting deadlines, and managing workload (Essential).
• A flexible, reliable, and professional approach to work (Essential).

• Grade: 7 (max point 7.3)
• Salary: £38,784 per annum pro rata (max point 7.3).
• Work arrangement: part‑time.
• Duration: 9‑month contract at 40% – to start in August or as soon as possible following interview; end 30 April 2027.
• Line manager:
  Senior Lecturer in Human Nutrition.
• Direct reports: none.
• Website:
• For informal enquiries about this job contact Dr Viren Ranawana, Senior Lecturer in Human Nutrition at vi

It is anticipated that the selection process will take place on Monday…