Research Associate within the Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine

Overall Purpose of the Job

This is an outstanding opportunity to lead and deliver advanced experimental research investigating the molecular mechanisms that regulate intervertebral disc cell function and tissue homeostasis, with a particular focus on the CD24 regulatory network. The postholder will design and execute studies integrating human cell systems, bioengineered 3D tissue models, and mouse models, generating high-quality mechanistic data that will advance understanding of disc degeneration and identify new therapeutic opportunities.

Intervertebral disc degeneration is a major global cause of disability and socioeconomic burden. Preliminary data from the group demonstrate that CD24 modulates inflammatory and catabolic signalling responses in disc cells and that loss of CD24 enhances degeneration-associated pathways. The project will combine human cell models, advanced 3D bioprinted disc analogues, proteomic mapping of CD24 interaction networks, and newly developed conditional mouse models to establish mechanistic insight and therapeutic direction.

The Research Associate will contribute to project leadership through experimental design, data analysis, and dissemination of findings through high-impact publications and conference presentations. They will work closely with the Principal Investigator and project collaborators, support integration across technical platforms, and help maintain high standards of scientific rigour, reproducibility, and innovation across the programme.

This post is based in a leading musculoskeletal research environment focused on understanding the cellular and molecular mechanisms that maintain intervertebral disc health and how their disruption leads to degeneration and chronic back pain. The Richardson lab has a strong international profile in disc biology and bioengineering and has led multiple landmark studies defining disc cell phenotypes, developmental pathways, and degeneration mechanisms. The group integrates discovery biology with advanced biofabrication and translational model systems.

The research environment provides access to state-of-the-art facilities in genome editing, biological mass spectrometry, advanced imaging, spatial transcriptomics, and 3D biofabrication. The postholder will work within a collaborative, multidisciplinary team spanning cell biology, bioengineering, proteomics, and in vivo modelling.

What you will get in return:

• Fantastic market leading Pension scheme
• Excellent employee health and wellbeing services including an Employee Assistance Programme
• Exceptional starting annual leave entitlement, plus bank holidays
• Additional paid closure over the Christmas period
• Local and national discounts at a range of major retailers, and more.

As an equal opportunities employer we welcome applicants from all sections of the community regardless of age, sex, gender (or gender identity), ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation and transgender status. All appointments are made on merit.

Our University is positive about flexible working – you can find out more here. Hybrid working arrangements are available.

Please be aware that due to the number of applications we unfortunately may not able to provide individual feedback on your application.

Please note that we are unable to respond to enquiries, accept CVs or applications from Recruitment Agencies.

Any recruitment enquiries from recruitment agencies should be directed to recruitmentservices.people@manchester.ac.uk

Any CVs submitted by a recruitment agency will be considered a gift.

Enquiries about the vacancy, shortlisting and interviews:

Name: Dr Stephen Richardson

Email: S.Richardson@manchester.ac.uk

General enquiries:

Email: recruitmentservices.people@manchester.ac.uk

Technical support: jobseekersupport.jobtrain.co.uk/support/home

This vacancy will close for applications at midnight on the closing date.

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