Research Associate / Fellow (Fixed term)

We are seeking a Research Associate/Fellow to join a project funded by the NIH BRC at the University of Nottingham. The project aim is to develop an advanced therapeutic using genetic augmentation for enhanced bone repair using clinical samples. The role holder will be involved in the design, build and testing pivotal gene delivery, cell differentiation and hydrogel scaffold-based systems. The successful candidate will join highly motivated and multidisciplinary research teams across the Schools of Pharmacy; and in collaboration with the Trauma team at the Nottingham University Hospitals NHS trust. The project is a collaboration between Dr. James Dixon and the BRC Musculoskeletal theme of the Nottingham NIHR.

The aim of this post will be to develop a gene delivery-focused augmentation strategy for orthopaedic regenerative medicine. We have recently designed and implemented an efficient gene delivery system and have applied this to induce bone differentiation in the context of an advanced hydrogel-based systems for tissue engineering and in animal models. Here, we aim to build on these successes by further enhancing the methodology to apply to clinical samples and medical devises as the next stage of translation.

Candidates should have a PhD (or near completion) in a discipline relevant to gene delivery, cell biology and/or tissue engineering. Past experience of cell culture, hydrogel systems and cell differentiation assays and preferably also gene delivery systems is essential. A knowledge of advanced analysis of differentiation (Immunolabelling, gene expression analyses) would be desirable. The candidate will be required to undertake research and day to day management of design, construct and test aspects of this research project, requiring a high degree of competence in the cell and tissue engineering biology research area. An aptitude for critical thinking and a flexible approach to collaborative research is vital.

 What we offer 

• A friendly, diverse, and supportive working environment
• A hybrid working arrangement with the blended approach of home and office working each week
• Generous holiday entitlement of 30 days (or pro rata) plus standard bank holidays and five university closure days including closure between Christmas and New Year.
• Our reward scheme grants bonuses of numerous values for excellent work
• We are committed to staff development through the provision of training, continued support, and career progression opportunities
• You will have access to a range of benefits and rewards, including fitness and health facilities, staff discounts, travel schemes and many more. To find out more about what we can offer you, follow the link to our benefits website

This full-time (36.25 hours/week), fixed-term post is offered for 6 months, starting on 1st October 2026 and with a funding end date of 31 March 2027. For informal enquiries, please contact Dr James Dixon (james.dixon@nottingham.ac.uk). Please note that applications sent directly to this address will not be accepted.

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