Research Associate (Developmental Biology)

University of Sheffield; Sheffield; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious university in Sheffield seeks a researcher with a PhD in evolutionary developmental biology to lead research on butterfly wing nanostructures. The role involves imaging, experiments, and co-supervision of students. Ideal candidates will have experience in microscopy and molecular biology techniques, backed by quality publications. The position includes competitive benefits and opportunities for professional development.

Benefits

Competitive annual leave

Generous pensions scheme

Flexible working opportunities

Wide range of retail discounts

Qualifications

• Experience with developmental and molecular biology techniques, including imaging.
• A track record of publishing in high-quality journals.

Responsibilities

• Imaging butterfly wings to determine nanostructure formation genes.
• Performing experiments to test specific hypotheses.
• Preparing research results for presentations and publications.
• Collaborating with team members to drive the research agenda.
• Co-supervising a PhD student and a research assistant.

Skills

Microscopy techniques

Genetic manipulation

Developmental biology

Education

PhD in evolutionary developmental biology or related field

Job description

Overview

University of Sheffield

We have an exciting opportunity for someone with a passion for developmental biology looking to use their skills in microscopy or genetics to make an impact on understanding biological nanostructure formation. You would join our large and diverse research community as part of a team led by Dr Nicola Nadeau on an international and interdisciplinary project that brings together expertise in genetics, developmental biology and microscopy with physics and biomechanical modelling to understand how intricately patterned nanostructures form on butterfly wings during development. Working within this team you will have ample opportunity to learn new techniques and develop new skills. You will also develop your leadership ability through co-supervision of a PhD student and a research assistant working on the project. You would have access to a broad range of training and networking opportunities, giving you all the support you need to plan for your next career step.

Responsibilities

• Imaging butterfly wings through development to determine genes and processes controlling nanostructure formation.
• Performing manipulative experiments to test specific hypotheses.
• Preparing research results for dissemination through presentations and publication in leading journals.
• Collaborating with team members to drive the research agenda and develop skills in advanced microscopy and genetic manipulation techniques.
• Co-supervision of a PhD student and a research assistant on the project to develop leadership experience.

Qualifications

• PhD (or equivalent experience) in evolutionary developmental biology or related field.
• Experience with developmental and molecular biology techniques, including imaging and gene expression analysis.
• A track record of cutting-edge science evidenced by publications in high-quality journals or on pre-print servers.

About the University

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.

Benefits

• Competitive annual leave entitlement with the option to purchase additional leave.
• Generous pensions scheme, flexible working opportunities, and a commitment to development and wellbeing.
• Wide range of retail discounts and other benefits.

Diversity

We build teams of people from different heritages and lifestyles from across the world, whose talent and contributions complement each other to greatest effect. We believe diversity in all its forms delivers greater impact through research, teaching and student experience.