Research Assistant

Are you a motivated scientist with a background in cellular biology, looking to make a real difference in neurodegenerative disease research? We have an exciting opportunity to join our internationally recognised team at the Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN) as a Research Assistant in motor neuron disease (MND/ALS).

About the role

Working at the translational medicine interface, you will support a research study aimed at improving nutritional and metabolic assessment in MND. Day-to-day, you will carry out tissue culture and molecular biology techniques, conduct metabolic cell-based assays, analyse anonymised participant data, and assist with manuscript preparation. You will also conduct systematic literature searches and maintain detailed experimental records. This is a hands-on, varied role where no two days are the same — the unpredictable nature of research means you will need to adapt quickly and think on your feet.

Who we're looking for

You will have a degree in Biomedical Science, Biology, Neuroscience or equivalent, along with solid experience in primary tissue culture and laboratory-based data collection and analysis. You will be comfortable using statistical software and the Microsoft Office suite, and you will bring strong attention to detail, good organisational skills, and the ability to communicate clearly with colleagues at all levels. An independent worker who thrives in a team environment, you will take pride in keeping rigorous scientific records and approaching problems creatively.

Experience in metabolic approaches to studying human disease or a technical support setting would be a bonus, but it is not essential — we value potential as much as experience.

About us

SITraN is one of the UK's leading centres for translational neuroscience research, with a strong international reputation in MND/ALS. You will join a vibrant, collaborative research group where your work will directly contribute to efforts that matter. The selection process will take place in April 2026, with the post running from 4 May to 24 July 2026.

What we offer

The University of Sheffield is a remarkable place to work. We offer a minimum of 38 days' annual leave (pro rata, with the option to buy more), a generous pension scheme, flexible working opportunities, a wide range of retail and lifestyle discounts, and a genuine commitment to your development and wellbeing. A full overview of our benefits is available at sheffield.ac.uk/jobs/benefits.

We are a Disability Confident Leader. If you have a disability and meet the essential criteria, you will be invited to the next stage of the selection process.

For informal enquiries, please contact smph-west-staffing@sheffield.ac.uk.

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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