Research Associate in Modelling Friedreich's ataxia using iPSC-derived neurons

Overview

We are looking for an enthusiastic and ambitious Research Associate to join the laboratories of Dr Matt Livesey, Prof Dame Pam Shaw and Profs Mead, Hautbergue and Mortiboys at the Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), supporting research into the cellular mechanisms underlying Friedreich's ataxia (FA). SITraN is an internationally recognised centre of excellence for research into neurodegenerative diseases and therapeutic development.

Funded to support an FA research programme, the successful candidate will play a key role in developing and delivering research investigating disease mechanisms and the effects of novel therapeutic compounds using human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived neuronal models. The post holder will be responsible for planning and undertaking experimental studies, generating, analysing and interpreting data, and contributing to the development of new approaches to understand FA pathophysiology and therapeutic responses.

The role will primarily involve the generation, characterisation and experimental use of human iPSC-derived neuronal models. Experimental approaches will include iPSC culture and differentiation, immunocytochemistry, fluorescence microscopy, whole-cell patch-clamp electrophysiology, molecular biology and RNA sequencing. The post holder will develop and optimise protocols, troubleshoot technical challenges and integrate cellular, electrophysiological and molecular datasets.

The successful candidate will work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team while demonstrating independence in planning and delivering their research. They will contribute to publications, presentations, research reports and future funding applications, and may provide guidance to students and less experienced researchers.

We are seeking a scientist with a PhD and experience in neuroscience, neurobiology, molecular biology, cell biology or a related discipline. Experience of human iPSC models, neuronal differentiation and/or relevant experimental techniques would be advantageous.

All candidates are encouraged to contact Matt Livesey for an informal chat prior to applying.

Main duties and responsibilities

• Take responsibility for planning, conducting and interpreting a programme of experimental research investigating the cellular mechanisms underlying Friedreich's ataxia and the effects of potential therapeutic compounds.
• Design and undertake experiments using human iPSC-derived neuronal models, including the maintenance, expansion and differentiation of iPSC cultures into relevant neuronal cell types.
• Develop, optimise and validate experimental protocols and methodologies to address specific research questions, identifying and resolving technical challenges where appropriate.
• Apply a range of experimental approaches, which may include immunocytochemistry, fluorescence microscopy, molecular biology, RNA extraction and analysis, whole-cell patch-clamp electrophysiology and RNA sequencing.
• Undertake quantitative analysis and interpretation of experimental datasets, integrating cellular, electrophysiological and molecular findings to address research hypotheses.
• Maintain accurate and comprehensive experimental records, research data and sample inventories, ensuring that all work is conducted to appropriate standards of scientific rigour and reproducibility.
• Contribute to the development of new experimental approaches and research directions within the FA programme, working collaboratively with Dr Matt Livesey, supervisors, technical staff and the wider laboratory.
• Take responsibility for the day-to-day delivery of defined research objectives and contribute to project planning, prioritisation and the achievement of agreed milestones.
• Prepare research findings for presentation at laboratory meetings, conferences and other scientific meetings, and contribute to the preparation of manuscripts, reports and research outputs.
• Contribute to the preparation of research proposals and funding applications where appropriate, supporting the development of future research activities within the programme.
• Work collaboratively across the wider SITraN research environment and contribute specialist technical and scientific knowledge to the research team.
• Provide appropriate guidance and practical support to students and less experienced researchers in relevant experimental techniques, where required.
• Maintain a high standard of laboratory practice, including appropriate management of reagents, equipment, cell culture facilities and research materials.
• Ensure that all research is conducted in accordance with University policies, relevant ethical approvals and health and safety requirements.
• Contribute to the dissemination and impact of research findings through publications, and presentations.
• Carry out other duties, commensurate with the grade and remit of the post

Person Specification

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 doesn't 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.

Criteria	Essential or desirable	Stage(s) assessed at
A minimum of PhD in Neuroscience or related subject	Essential	Application/interview
Demonstrable experience of working with and leading projects using induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) models	Essential	Application/interview
Expertise in neurodegeneration	Desirable	Application/interview
Demonstrable experience in conducting research as part of collaborative team	Essential	Application/interview
Experience in the maintenance of iPSC in culture and the derivation of iPSC neurons	Desirable	Application/interview
Experience in immunocytochemistry (ICC), fluorescence microscopy, RNA extraction and molecular biology techniques	Desirable	Application/interview
Experience in patch-clamp electrophysiology	Desirable	Application/interview
Maintain accurate records	Essential	Application/interview
Participating in weekly team meetings	Essential	Application/interview
Presentation of data internally and at international conferences	Essential	Application/interview

Further Information

Grade	Grade 7
Salary	£38,784 to £47,389
Work arrangement	Full-time
Duration	As soon as possible. End date 27-07-2028
Line manager	Dr Matt Livesey
Direct reports	Dr Matt Livesey
Right to work in the UK	If you do not currently hold the right to work in the UK, you can find more information here to help determine your visa eligibility. Additional guidance is also available on the UK Visa & Immigration website.
Our website	https://sheffield.ac.uk/sitran
For informal enquiries about this job contact Matt Livesey, project lead: on m.r.livesey@sheffield.ac.uk

Next steps in the recruitment process

It is anticipated that the selection process will take place early October. This will consist of INTERVIEW and PRESENTATION. We plan to let candidates know if they have progressed to the selection stage on the week commencing one week after closing date. If you need any support, equipment or adjustments to enable you to participate in any element of the recruitment process you can contact Dr Matt Livesey.

Our vision and strategic plan

We are the University of Sheffield. This is our vision: sheffield.ac.uk/vision (opens in new window).

What we offer

• A minimum of 41 days annual leave including bank holiday and closure days (pro rata) with the ability to purchase more.
• Flexible working opportunities, including hybrid working for some roles.
• Generous pension scheme.
• A wide range of discounts and rewards on shopping, eating out and travel.
• A variety of staff networks, providing opportunities for social interaction, peer support and personal development (for example, Race Equality, LGBT+, Women's and Parent's networks).
• Recognition Awards to reward staff who go above and beyond in their role.
• A commitment to your development access to learning and mentoring schemes; integrated with our Academic Career Pathways
• A range of generous family-friendly policies
  • paid time off for parenting and caring emergencies
  • access to menopause support in the workplace
  • paid time off and support for fertility treatment
  • and more

More details can be found on our benefits page: sheffield.ac.uk/jobs/benefits (opens in a new window).

We are a Disability Confident Leader (opens in a new window). If you have a disability and meet the essential criteria for this job you will be invited to take part in the next stage of the selection process.

Possession of a criminal record is not an automatic bar to employment at the University of Sheffield. We recognise the value of steady employment in the rehabilitation process and examine each case in its own right. More information can be found on our Information for candidates page:- sheffield.ac.uk/jobs/candidates (opens in a new window).

We are a research university with a global reputation for excellence. Our ideas and expertise change the world for the better, making a real difference to society. We know that when people come together with different views, approaches and insights it can lead to richer, more creative and innovative teaching and research and the highest levels of student experience. Our University Vision (www.sheffield.ac.uk/vision) outlines our commitment to building a diverse community of staff and students that recognises and values the abilities, backgrounds, beliefs and ways of living for everyone.

The University of Sheffield is a remarkable place to work. Our people are at the heart of everything we do. Their diverse backgrounds, abilities and beliefs make Sheffield a world-class university.

We offer a fantastic range of benefits including a highly competitive annual leave entitlement (with the ability to purchase more), a generous pensions scheme, flexible working opportunities, a commitment to your development and wellbeing, a wide range of retail discounts, and much more. Find out more about our benefits (opens in a new window) and join us to become part of something special.