Research Associate (Developmental Neuroscience)

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Overview

We have an exciting opportunity for a Wellcome-Trust-funded Postdoctoral Research Associate position in the research group of Professor Tanya Whitfield.

The overall aim of the Whitfield lab research programme is to use genetic, molecular and cellular, and imaging/image analysis approaches to understand the development and function of the vertebrate inner ear, the organ of hearing and balance. You will join a small team working on epithelial morphogenesis of the developing ear.

You will have a PhD in Developmental Neuroscience, with a strong motivation for and commitment to research in developmental biology. Prior experience in working with the developing inner ear in zebrafish embryos and strong experimental skills in molecular and genetic techniques, including CRISPR genetic modification are also essential. You will be able to work both independently and part of a team, maintaining a strong collegial ethic with excellent communication skills. The post demands a flexible attitude and an ability to respond positively to the challenges faced in the research environment. There will be opportunities to develop your supervision skills.

You will work within the Development, Regeneration and Neurophysiology (DRN) Research Cluster within the School of Biosciences, a supportive and collaborative collective of researchers using model organisms to address biomedical research questions. Numerous opportunities for further training and career development are offered by the University of Sheffield, all within one of the UK’s most liveable cities.

Main Duties And Responsibilities

The successful candidate will:

• Attend regular meetings with Professor Whitfield and other lab members to discuss planning and design of experiments
• Plan own work: design, develop and refine experiments in order to obtain reliable data
• Perform live and fixed tissue imaging of zebrafish embryos, larvae and adults
• Analyse or generate new CRISPR and transgenic zebrafish lines, if required
• Maintain comprehensive and accurate records of research work, animal usage, etc.
• Take a lead role in data analysis, data archiving and preparation for publication
• Contribute to the writing of research reports, progress reports and presentations
• Disseminate research findings locally through seminars, and (inter)nationally through publications and conference presentation
• Develop scientific background and specialist knowledge by reading academic papers and attending conferences and meetings
• Maintain a safe working environment, including ensuring compliance with legislation and relevant risk assessments
• Provide help to other researchers in the same group and other groups with related research interests
• Assist, when required, with the supervision and training of undergraduate and postgraduate students or other personnel in the laboratory
• Liaise with the Aquarium Facility Manager, Named Animal Care and Welfare Officers (NACWOs) and technical staff to discuss and plan animal usage
• Liaise with key contacts in the School and wider University body to support specific tasks, as required
• Take responsibility for self-development and on-the-job learning, keeping abreast of developments in techniques and technology
• Attend all required safety and training courses, and comply with required safety, licencing and ethical regulations at all times
• Make ethical decisions in the role, embedding the University sustainability strategy into your working activities wherever possible
• Carry out other duties, commensurate with the grade and remit of the post

Person Specification

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.

You should provide evidence in your application that you meet the following criteria. We will use a range of selection methods to measure your abilities in these areas including reviewing your online application, seeking references, inviting shortlisted candidates to interview and other forms of assessment action relevant to the post. Please ensure that you reference the application criteria in the application statement when you apply.

Criteria

Essential Or Desirable

Stage(s) assessed at

A PhD in Developmental Neuroscience or a related area

Essential

Application

Experience in working with zebrafish as a model organism, including analysis of the developing inner ear

Essential

Application / Interview

Experience in molecular, cellular, pharmacological and genetic techniques, including use of CRISPR for genetic manipulation

Essential

Application / Interview

Ability to plan and conduct complex experimental analyses, and to appraise experimental data critically and objectively, including through the use of quantitative and statistical analyses

Essential

Application / Interview

Ability to work as part of a team with varied skills and experience and to maintain effective communication with team members and collaborators

Essential

Application / Interview

Ability to present results orally to a high standard

Essential

Interview

Ability to keep accurate and reliable records

Essential

Application / Interview

IT skills, including the ability to use specialised software

Essential

Application / Interview

Experience in the training and supervision of other personnel in the laboratory environment

Essential

Application / Interview

Hold a UK Home Office Personal Animal Licence*

Desirable

Application / Interview

Experience in preparing results for publication to a high standard

Desirable

Application / Interview

• The successful applicant will be required to undertaken training (provided) and to apply for a Home Office Personal Licence, if they are not already a licence holder.

Further Information

Grade

7

Salary

£38,249 - £39,355 per annum

Work arrangement

Full-time (100% FTE). Hybrid / Flexible options considered.

Duration

1 September 2025 – 31 August 2026 (1 year)

Line manager

Principal Investigator

Direct reports

None

Our website

School of Biosciences / Tanya Whitfield / Whitfield lab blog / Regeneration and Neurophysiology (DRN) Research cluster Bluesky page

For informal enquiries about this job, please contact Tanya Whitfield, Professor of Developmental Biology and Principal Investigator: [email protected]

Next steps in the recruitment process

It is anticipated that the selection process will take place in the weeks following the closing date. This will consist of an interview (in person or online) together with consideration of a written application, cv and references. We plan to let candidates know if they have progressed to the selection stage within two weeks of the closing date. If you need any support, equipment or adjustments to enable you to participate in any element of the recruitment process you can contact Biosciences HR Admin

Our vision and strategic plan

We are the University of Sheffield. This is our vision: sheffield.ac.uk/vision (opens in new window).

What We Offer

• A minimum of 41 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 networks, providing opportunities for social interaction, peer support and personal development (for example, Race Equality, LGBT+, Women’s and Parent’s networks).
• Recognition Awards to reward staff who go above and beyond in their role.
• A commitment to your development access to learning and mentoring schemes, integrated with our Academic Career Pathways
• A range of generous family-friendly policies
• paid time off for parenting and caring emergencies
• support for those going through the menopause
• paid time off and support for fertility treatment
• and more

More details can be found on our benefits page: sheffield.ac.uk/jobs/benefits (opens in a new window).

We are a Disability Confident Employer. If you have a disability and meet the essential criteria for this job you will be invited to take part in the next stage of the selection process.

We are a research university with a global reputation for excellence. Our ideas and expertise change the world for the better, making a real difference to society. We know that when people come together with different views, approaches and insights it can lead to richer, more creative and innovative teaching and research and the highest levels of student experience. Our University Vision (www.sheffield.ac.uk/vision) outlines our commitment to building a diverse community of staff and students that recognises and values the abilities, backgrounds, beliefs and ways of living for everyone.