Research Associate in molecular, digital and computational pathology

Overview

We are seeking a talented and motivated Research Associate to join the NEOPATH research group within the Faculty of Health, University of Sheffield. This is an exciting opportunity to work at the intersection of molecular biology, computational science, and translational oncology, contributing to cutting edge research in the pathology of head and neck cancers.

Led by Professor Ali Khurram, this multidisciplinary project focuses on understanding the tumour microenvironment and disease progression by integrating digital histology, radiology, immunohistochemistry, multiplex imaging, and spatial transcriptomics with advanced bioinformatics and AIdriven analysis.

You will work alongside molecular biologists, pathologists, and data scientists to generate and analyse multimodal datasets that uncover new prognostic biomarkers and inform precision therapies. The role involves both wet-lab experimentation and computational modelling, offering a unique opportunity for someone with a background in molecular or cell biology who is also skilled in bioinformatics, image analysis, and machine learning.

You’ll be part of a dynamic, supportive, and forward-thinking research environment committed to making real clinical impact through innovation in cancer diagnostics and personalised medicine.

Main duties and responsibilities

• Conduct research aligned with the project’s objectives, contributing to both molecular and cell biology experiments and computational/bioinformatics analyses.
• Generate, process, and analyse multimodal datasets including immunohistochemistry, multiplex imaging, and spatial transcriptomics, integrating findings from laboratory work with computational outputs.
• Manage and maintain laboratory equipment, digital pathology tools, software environments, and data systems essential for experimental and computational workflows.
• Work both independently and collaboratively as part of the NEOPATH research group, engaging with co-investigators to meet project milestones and contribute to overall planning and delivery.
• Maintain accurate and detailed records of all research activity, including wet-lab protocols, data acquisition processes, and bioinformatics pipelines.
• Adhere to Health & Safety policies, including CoSHH regulations and SOPs.
• Liaise regularly with the principal investigator and project supervisors, contributing to team meetings and strategic discussions.
• Prepare and deliver presentations for internal meetings, collaborators, and external audiences such as conferences.
• Undertake literature reviews to ensure the project is informed by the latest developments.
• Contribute to manuscript preparation, technical reports, and funding applications.
• Support responsible research conduct and sustainability practices.
• Carry out other duties as required, commensurate with the scope and grade 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 equivalent experience) in a relevant subject area such as molecular biology, cell biology, cancer biology, bioinformatics, or computational pathology

Essential

Application

Undergraduate degree in a relevant biological, biomedical, or computational discipline

Essential

Application

Proven ability to conduct independent research and evidence of outputs (e.g., publications, presentations)

Essential

Application

Demonstrated experience in molecular and/or cellular biology techniques (e.g., RNA/protein extraction, tissue processing, multiplex imaging analysis)

Essential

Application/Interview

Experience in bioinformatics or computational analysis of biological data (e.g., transcriptomics, spatial omics, image analysis, machine learning)

Essential

Application/Interview

Ability to integrate experimental and computational data

Essential

Application/Interview

Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Essential

Application

Strong teamworking and time-management skills

Essential

Application/Interview

Experience with spatial transcriptomics or multiplex imaging (e.g., Visium, CODEX, MIBI)

Desirable

Application/Interview

Familiarity with digital pathology or AI-based analysis platforms (e.g., QuPath, HALO, CellProfiler, R/Python)

Desirable

Application/Interview

Further Information

Grade

7

Salary

£38,249 - £46,735

Work arrangement

Full-time

Duration

1 October 2025 – 30 September 2029

Line manager

Principal Investigator

Our website

https://www.sheffield.ac.uk/dentalschool

For informal enquiries about this job contact Professor Ali Khurram, Dean & Principal Investigator: on s.a.khurram@sheffield.ac.uk

Next steps in the recruitment process

It is anticipated that the selection process will take place within 4 weeks of the application submission date.  This will consist of an interview and presentation, the title of which will be provided to all shortlisted candidates. We plan to let candidates know if they have progressed to the selection stage within 2 weeks of the close of the application process.  If you need any support, equipment or adjustments to enable you to participate in any element of the recruitment process you can contact Jennie Young on j.l.young@sheffield.ac.uk who will be able to assist..

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 Employer. 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.