Overview
Do you have a passion for immunology, RNA and gene-regulation? We are seeking an outstanding Postdoctoral Researcher to join an ambitious interdisciplinary programme at the University of Sheffield investigating how RNA regulation controls innate immune responses during inflammation.
You will have a PhD in an appropriate subject and a keen interest in RNA biology, innate immunity or in vivo modelling. This position is suited to someone with the ability and motivation to design and perform complex experimental procedures, including high-throughput RNA focused experiments, as well as analysing the results. The project will generate extensive multi-omics datasets, therefore experience in, or aptitude for, bioinformatic analysis would be advantageous.
You will form part of a team that will combine primary human neutrophil culture and zebrafish models with the latest molecular biology, genomics, bioinformatics and in vivo imaging to investigate how ELAVL1, a major RNA-binding protein, impacts neutrophil biology. We will uncover the fundamental principles of immune regulation by post-transcriptional regulation, with relevance to inflammatory and infectious diseases.
You will be able to demonstrate a collaborative mindset, be looking to acquire and use new skills and enjoy working in an interdisciplinary way. You will look forward to being part of a community of researchers working towards common goals.
This is an exceptional opportunity for ambitious researchers to work at the forefront of RNA biology and immunology, access world-class facilities, contribute to high-impact discoveries, and develop an independent research profile within a collaborative and supportive research environment.
Main duties and responsibilities
We are seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Associates to join a multidisciplinary research programme investigating the regulation and function of ELAVL1 in neutrophil biology and inflammation. The project combines molecular biology, genomics, bioinformatics, and in vivo disease models to uncover mechanisms controlling RNA processing and immune cell function. The successful candidate will work in a team where complementary expertise will be available to cover all required skills and will contribute to complementary work packages spanning mechanistic studies in human cells and functional investigations in zebrafish models.
Main Duties and Responsibilities
- Design and conduct independent research into the molecular mechanisms regulating ELAVL1 function in innate immune cells.
- Culture and experimentally manipulate primary human neutrophils and related cellular models.
- Perform and analyse high-throughput -omics experiments, including RNA sequencing (RNA-seq), eCLIP, SLAM-seq, RIP-seq, and associated transcriptomic datasets in vitro and in vivo.
- Investigate post-transcriptional regulatory mechanisms, including intron retention, mRNA stability, RNA editing, methylation, and protein phosphorylation.
- Develop and apply molecular biology approaches such as CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing, RNA affinity pull-down assays, mutant analysis, and gene perturbation strategies.
- Undertake in vivo studies using zebrafish models, including inflammation and infection assays, live imaging, and functional analysis of genetic mutants.
- For suitable applicants, there will be an opportunity to generate, integrate, and interpret large-scale multi-omics datasets, identifying biologically relevant pathways and regulatory networks.
- Use a range of computational tools for data processing, statistical analysis, visualisation, and cross-referencing of multiple datasets.
- Contribute to experimental design, data interpretation, and dissemination of research findings through publications, presentations, and reports.
- Maintain accurate experimental records and comply with laboratory, ethical, and health and safety procedures.
- Collaborate effectively with researchers across molecular biology, bioinformatics, and imaging disciplines, and support the training of students and junior researchers where appropriate.
- Carry out other duties, commensurate with the grade and remit of the post
Essential Expertise
Candidates should have a PhD in a relevant biological and/or computer science discipline and experience in molecular and cellular biology, RNA biology, immunology, genomics, or related fields. Strong molecular biology skills and data analysis are essential. Experience with CRISPR technologies, RNA-focused methodologies, transcriptomics, or zebrafish models would be advantageous. Immunohistochemistry and advanced imaging experience are desirable.
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. 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.
PhD in a relevant discipline e.g. Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Genetics, Bioinformatics, Computational Biology
Experience in working with either human primary immune cells or zebrafish models
Strong understanding of RNA biology
Ability to design, analyse and troubleshoot experiments
Ability to communicate efficiently and work between groups
Strong molecular biology skills e.g PCR and molecular cloning, mammalian cell culture, CRISPR etc.
Experience of working with assays of genome-wide RNA stability, splicing and editing measurement techniques such as RNA-seq, SLAM-seq or eCLIP.
Knowledge of Python, R or other programming languages and experience using UNIX-style operating systems.
Further Information
https://renshaw.sites.sheffield.ac.uk/
For informal enquiries about this job contact Prof. Steve Renshaw, PI, on
[email protected] Next steps in the recruitment process
It is anticipated that the selection process will take place in September 2026. This will consist of an interview and presentation followed by a tour of the facilities. We plan to let candidates know if they have progressed to the selection stage shortly after the advert closes. If you need any support, equipment or adjustments to enable you to participate in any element of the recruitment process you can contact Cat Loynes on
[email protected].
Our vision and strategic plan
We are the University of Sheffield. This is our vision: sheffield.ac.uk/vision ().
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
- access to menopause support in the workplace
- paid time off and support for fertility treatment
- and more
We are a Disability Confident Leader (opens in a new window). 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.
Possession of a criminal record is not an automatic bar to employment at the University of Sheffield. We recognise the value of steady employment in the rehabilitation process and examine each case in its own right. More information can be found on our Information for candidates page:- sheffield.ac.uk/jobs/candidates (opens in a new window).
Please note we also have another role currently advertised, see here
