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Overview

The School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences is seeking to appoint a Research Associate to work on a project funded as part of a BBSRC grant under the guidance of Professor Nick Turner at the University of Sheffield exploring the development of microscopy assays for recognition of extracellular vesicles. 

You will form part of a growing team looking at pushing the capabilities of molecular imprinting techniques and targeted recognition polymers at the biological interface. Molecularly Imprinted Polymers (MIPs) are simple, elegant biomimetics that incorporate binding sites bearing steric and chemical functionality complementary to a given target.  They represent a generic, versatile, scalable, cost-effective approach to the creation of synthetic molecular receptors and have uses in separation sciences, purification, sensors and catalysis. This multi-disciplinary project will explore the capability of nanoscale MIPs to selectively recognise surface proteins on extracellular vesicles - biological entities that are secreted from cells and act as transporters, signallers and biomarkers. This project is in conjunction with MetaguideX, and OXford Nanoimaging, and will require engagement with the Central Laser Facility at Harwell. 

You will be a highly motivated individual with a background in molecular imprinting, cell biology and microscopy. Expertise in a good range of common bioanalytical and protein handling techniques will be required; and prior experience of some of the following areas will be advantageous: confocal/electron microscopy, molecular modelling, surface chemistry and molecular imprinting. 

You will hold a good first degree in biochemistry, chemistry, or similar; and hold, or about to examine for, a doctoral level qualification (PhD) in a related subject. 

Main duties and responsibilities

• You will work across the University's facilities and with collaborators via regular interaction with academic and industrial partners to ensure the progress of work adheres to the programme timescales. Report problems and non-compliances to the Project Team.

• Work with external collaborators and represent the University and the Turner group at conferences. 

• Design, develop and synthesise molecularly imprinted polymer films and nanomaterials selective for specific surface protein targets. 

• Perform, using suitable analytical equipment, affinity and selectivity studies on developed MIPs towards optimisation of MIP/EV interactions.

• Perform, using suitable microscopy equipment, binding studies of MIP/EV interactions.

• Develop attachment strategies for MIPs to STORM microscopy slides

• Perform where required, microscopy assay development

• Dissemination of the results of the research as the work progresses, in verbal and in written form, through attendance at regular project meetings, both internal and external. 

• Promote knowledge and technology exchange when required.

• Comply with the University’s Health and Safety, Equal Opportunities and Computing policies in the performance of their duties. Take reasonable care of the Health and Safety of themselves and that of any other person who may be affected by their acts or omissions at work 

• You will make a full and active contribution to the principles of the ‘Sheffield Academic’. These include the achievement of excellence in applied teaching and research, and scholarly pursuits to make a genuine difference in the subject area and to the University’s achievements as a whole. 

• 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. 

• Any other duties, commensurate with the grade 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 are 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 at the end of June 2026. This will consist of an interview with a short presentation.. 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 mps-hr@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 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

• 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

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

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).

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.