Research Technician: in vivo colony management oral stem cell biology research

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Research Technician: in vivo colony management for oral stem cell biology research

Department/School: School of Clinical Dentistry

Contract type: Fixed term, Part time 0.5 FTE (17.5 hours) 30/03/2026-28/03/2030

Advertising length (weeks): 2

Are you interested in supporting high-quality in vivo research at the forefront of stem cell biology and tissue regeneration? We are seeking a Research Technician to support a BBSRC-funded research programme in oral stem cell biology within the School of Clinical Dentistry, Faculty of Health, University of Sheffield.

This role will support a four-year project led by Dr Vitor Neves that investigates how stem and vascular cell populations behave in vivo during tissue homeostasis and periodontal disease. Using genetically modified rodent models, the project aims to understand the molecular and cellular mechanisms that govern tissue repair versus pathological remodelling. The research has strong translational relevance to chronic infectious-inflammatory disease and regenerative medicine.

The primary focus of this role is to support the in vivo component of the project through the establishment, breeding, expansion, genotyping, and maintenance of genetically modified rodent colonies. The post holder will work closely with the project lead, postdoctoral researchers, and technical staff to ensure the smooth running of animal-based experiments of the grant. The Research Technician will be fully trained to deliver periodontal disease induction models used in the project and will contribute directly to experimental workflows in accordance with approved protocols and Home Office regulations.

In addition,
the post holder will receive training in tissue processing and histological techniques for oral and systemic organs
, enabling them to support downstream experimental analyses and assist in delivering the scientific aims of the project. This role therefore provides broad exposure to in vivo research, tissue-based analysis, and translational stem cell biology within a supportive laboratory environment.

You will join a collaborative and inclusive research group embedded within a multidisciplinary team of biologists, clinicians, and technical specialists. This position offers valuable hands-on experience in animal colony management, experimental disease models, and laboratory techniques, and is well suited to candidates seeking to develop practical expertise in preclinical biomedical research.

We welcome applications from candidates with relevant experience or training in biological or biomedical sciences who are organised, motivated, and keen to contribute to high-quality in vivo research with real potential to improve understanding and treatment of periodontal disease.

Appointment to the post will be subject to a security check, which will be carried out for the preferred candidate.

• Establish, breed, expand, genotype, and maintain genetically modified rodent colonies required for the project, ensuring accurate and up-to-date animal records are maintained in accordance with institutional and Home Office requirements.
• Take responsibility for maintaining all associated administrative and regulatory documentation related to animal research, including licence records, ensuring compliance with university policies and Home Office regulations.
• Support the collection, processing, and histology of oral and systemic tissues following experimental procedures, to assist downstream experimental analyses.
• Work independently and collaboratively within the Neves Lab and wider research team to…