Research Associate (Cell Biology)

Job description:

We have an exciting opportunity at the University of Sheffield for an individual with a passion for translating mechanistic molecular cell biology into potential cancer therapies. Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is associated with poor prognosis because, although therapies have been developed, the emergence of resistance is a major problem. There is thus an urgent need to identify and develop new therapeutic targets.

Funded by Yorkshire Cancer Research you will join a team of researchers led by Liz Smythe in our large and diverse academic School of Biosciences (rated 4th in Biology in REF2021). The project will investigate the Rab5GEF, Rme-6, which the Smythe group has shown integrates trafficking and signalling by the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), by providing a platform for ERK1/2 signalling. Loss of Rme-6 sensitises TNBC cells to chemotherapy agents. This is particularly relevant because EGFR is often mutated/overexpressed in TNBC. The overall aim of this project is to determine the underpinning molecular mechanisms by which Rme-6 contributes to chemo-resistance in order to develop a novel therapeutic target(s) for TNBC.

You will have a PhD in a relevant subject, ideally with previous experience of proteomics and transcriptomics, skills in high-resolution fluorescence microscopy, excellent molecular cell biology techniques (trafficking, signalling and proliferation assays) and genetic manipulation techniques (CRISPR/Cas9). Experience of FRET-based assays would be an advantage. Team spirit and a strong work ethic are essential. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are expected.

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 at www.sheffield.ac.uk/benefits and join us to become part of something special.

The University of Sheffield is a remarkable place to work. Our people are at the heart of everything we do. We believe diversity in all its forms delivers greatest impact, so 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 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.

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