Research Associate (rRNA modification in human stem cells)

Overview

The Thomson Lab at the University of Sheffield is seeking a highly motivated Research Associate to join our team investigating RNA modifications in a human stem cell and differentiation model. The successful candidate will perform cutting-edge direct rRNA sequencing analysis to profile rRNA modifications, contributing to our understanding of their role in stem cell biology and lineage commitment. 

Applicants must have a PhD (or be close to completion/have equivalent experience) in cell or molecular biology and experience with culture and differentiation of human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs). Experience in analysis of nanopore direct RNA sequencing data and flow cytometry are also essential.

This is an exciting opportunity to work on a high-impact project within a collaborative and supportive research environment.

Main duties and responsibilities

• Human embryonic stem cell culture: Maintain and culture human embryonic stem cells, performing routine maintenance and quality control using FACs, qPCR and low pass sequencing. 

• Stem Cell Differentiation: Conduct trilineage differentiation experiments (ectoderm, mesoderm, endoderm) on human stem cell lines and perform quality control. 

• Perform Direct RNA Sequencing: Execute direct RNA sequencing experiments, ensuring high-quality data generation. You'll also provide guidance and training to other lab members on these techniques.

• Bioinformatics Analysis: Analyse direct RNA sequencing data using Dorado, and effectively visualize and interpret results using R.

• CRISPR-Cas9 Gene Editing: Design and implement CRISPR-Cas9 experiments to investigate the functional impact of identified lineage-specific or pluripotent RNA modifications.

• Disseminate research findings through the production of papers for high quality journals and presentation either in-house or at national/international conferences or seminars.

• Provide support to PI for research proposals and funding applications.

• Deal with reactive requests relating to supervision of research staff and students.

• Participate in collaborative meetings and seminars.

• 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.

• 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

PhD (or be close to completion/have equivalent experience) in cell or molecular biology

Essential

Application/interview

Experience with culture and differentiation of human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs)

Essential

Application/interview

Experience in analysis of nanopore direct RNA sequencing data

Essential

Application/interview

Experience in flow cytometry 

Essential

Application/interview

Effective communication skills, both written and verbal, report writing skills, experience of delivering presentations

Essential

Application/interview

Excellent record keeping and data management skills, with appropriate IT experience

Essential

Application/interview

Ability to analyse and solve problems with an appreciation of longer-term implications

Essential

Application/interview

Ability to assess and organise resources, and plan and progress work activities

Essential

Application/interview

Ability to keep up to date with ongoing research associated with current projects

Essential

Application/interview

Ability to work flexibly according to the biological demands of the experimental system and availability of equipment

Essential

Application/interview

Further Information

Grade

7

Salary

£38,784 per annum

Work arrangement

Full-time (100% FTE)

Duration

Fixed-term, available immediately for a period of 6 months

Line manager

Lecturer/PI

Direct reports

None

Our website

School of Biosciences

For informal enquiries about this job, contact Dr Emma Thomson (PI) at e.thomson@sheffield.ac.uk

Next steps in the recruitment process

It is anticipated that the selection process will take place in the weeks following the closing date following interview of shortlisted candidates. We plan to let candidates know if they have progressed to the selection stage within two weeks of the closing date. If you are shortlisted for interview and need any support, equipment or adjustments to enable you to participate in any element of the recruitment process, please contact bioscienceshradmin@sheffield.ac.uk  

Our vision and strategic plan

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