Overview

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Research Technician in the Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN). SITraN is a purpose-built research facility which was opened in November 2010 by Her Majesty the Queen and awarded the Queen’s Anniversary prize for higher education in 2020 in recognition of having made an outstanding positive impact in patient’s lives. The Institute houses clinical and basic scientists from the Department of Neuroscience and the primary focus is research into neurodegenerative disorders such as Motor Neurone Disease (MND), Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease.

We are seeking an enthusiastic and experienced graduate to join an exciting translational research project to assess the repurposing potential of clinically approved Janus Kinase inhibitors (Jakinibs) for motor neuron disease (MND/ALS) using both human astrocyte-motor neuron co-cultures and human neuronal monoculture assays. You will be part of a team (two postdoctoral researchers and two research technicians) evaluating in vitro and in vivo disease models. This post is focussed on in vitro models and delivering high quality data in assays of astrocyte toxicity towards neurons and in iNeurons and iPSC derived motor neuron monocultures to probe the mechanistic basis for neuroprotection by Janus kinase inhibitors. We have a track record of identifying molecules for clinical translation and you will be exposed to an environment focussed on drug discovery and development, building a highly transferrable skill set.

This post is fixed term for 2 years.

Main duties and responsibilities

• Assist with human cell culture experiments
• Maintain accurate results records
• Using, writing and amending Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (CoSHH) forms, Risk Assessments and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) under legal requirements.
• Provide assistance and information to users (e.g COSHH forms, Risk Assessments and Standard Operating Procedures) as appropriate to the grade, referring to experienced technical staff and/or line manager as necessary.
• Prioritise own work within a general plan in conjunction with research group leader to meet deadlines over a medium term of 1-3 months.
• Carry out planning to ensure that periodic goals are met.
• Participating in weekly team meetings.
• As a member of staff you will be encouraged to make ethical decisions in your 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. 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.

Further Information

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 a panel interview including a 15-minute presentation with questions on a recent research project, a tour of the laboratories and opportunity to meet members of the research team. We plan to let candidates know if they have progressed to the selection stage on the week within two weeks of interview. If you need any support, equipment or adjustments to enable you to participate in any element of the recruitment process you can contact smph-west-staffing@sheffield.ac.uk

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 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 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; Technical Career Route
• 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.