Research Associate (Biophysics)

We are seeking a motivated Research Associate with expertise in biophysics. Our research strives to bridge the gap between molecular mechanisms and cellular outcomes, specifically focusing on how chromosome resolution is maintained in both healthy and diseased states.

Dividing cells must faithfully segregate meters of DNA. When this process fails, DNA entanglements and subsequent DNA damage occurs, significantly contributing to the development of disease. To combat this, cells employ a specialised range of enzymes dedicated to package and resolve these entanglements.

In this project you will utilise molecular simulations (i.e. molecular dynamics, polymer modelling) and single-molecule data to examine structural changes in DNA and DNA processing enzymes. You will work alongside an interdisciplinary team employing cell biology approaches and protein biochemistry to understand the molecular mechanism underlying chromosome resolution.

The impact of this project is an enhanced understanding of genome stability during cell division, which could be exploited in for drug development.

Applicants must hold PhD (or be close to completion/have equivalent postdoctoral level work experience) in relevant subject. Experience in either molecular simulations or single-molecule techniques is also essential. The successful candidate will be encouraged to develop and acquire new skills during their time in the role.

The University of Sheffield has the state-of-the-art facilities and equipment required for this project, including a confocal optical tweezer system housed in the Henry Royce Institute, an ever-expanding biophysics suite in the School of Bioscience, multi-user GPU clusters and access to national computational resources. The wider University community includes special interest groups including the Nucleic Acids Institute and the centre for Single Molecule Biology at Sheffield, which provide additional experience, network and support.

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.

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

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