Research Assistant

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. Find out more about our benefits and join us to become part of something special.

We are a dynamic and rapidly developing research group focused on identifying novel therapeutic strategies for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Specifically, we utilise induced pluripotent stem cell-derived motor neurons (iPS-MN) to functionally validate genetic drivers of ALS. We are seeking a motivated Research Assistant to assist with the day-to-day running of the wet lab work and provide technical support for our enthusiastic team of PhD students and Research Associates.

• Maintenance of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC), neural progenitor cells, and motor neurons.
• Characterisation of cell lines via immunocytochemistry / confocal microscopy, PCR and Western blotting.
• Karyotyping and routine mycoplasma testing.
• Differentiation of iPSC into motor neurons using our in-house small molecule approach.
• Ordering and preparing reagents for the lab to run efficiently.
• Maintain accurate records of data.
• Assist PhD students / Research Associates with their experiments.
• Carry out other duties, commensurate with the grade and remit of the post.

Our diverse community of staff and students recognises the unique abilities, backgrounds, and beliefs of all. We foster a culture where everyone feels they belong and is respected. Even if your past experience doesn't match perfectly with this role's criteria, your contribution is valuable, and we encourage you to apply. Please ensure that you reference the application criteria in the application statement when you apply.

• Minimum of a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant scientific discipline (e.g. biomedical science, neuroscience, biology, biochemistry).
• Essential – Application Experience in stem cell culture.
• Essential – Application/Interview Specialized knowledge directly related to neurodegenerative diseases or neuroscience.
• Essential – Application/Interview Proficiency in basic and advanced molecular biology methods (e.g., PCR, gel electrophoresis, Western blotting, immunocytochemistry).
• Essential – Application/Interview Demonstrated ability to maintain meticulous and accurate records of data.
• Essential – Interview Understanding of ethical and safety guidelines / Biosafety standards for handling biological samples and chemicals.
• Essential – Interview Strong interpersonal skills to collaborate effectively with colleagues and supervisors.
• Desirable – Interview Proven ability to manage time effectively and prioritize tasks in a fast‑paced research environment.

Grade: 6

Salary: £32,080 - £35,608 (pro rata)

Work arrangement: Full‑time

Duration: 12 months

Line manager: Johnathan Cooper-Knock

Direct reports: Not applicable

Contact: Tobias Moll, Research Fellow –  or

It is anticipated that the selection process will take place within two weeks of the advert closing. This will consist of an interview and a tour of the labs  plan to let candidates know if they have progressed to the selection stage on the week commencing within one week of the advert closing. If you need any support, equipment or adjustments to enable you to participate in any element of the recruitment process you can contact smph-w

We are the University of Sheffield. This is our vision:

A minimum of 38 days annual leave including bank holiday and closure days (pro rata) with the ability to purchase more; flexible working opportunities, including hybrid working for some roles; generous pension scheme; a wide range of discounts and rewards on shopping, eating out and travel; a variety of staff…