Research Fellow in Laboratory and Computational Systems Biology Cancer Research(UK Visa Sponsorship)

Job Description

About the role

Brighton and Sussex Medical School (BSMS) is seeking a motivated and forward-thinking Research Fellow to lead an innovative cancer research programme that bridges computational systems biology and experimental laboratory science.

This role offers the opportunity to take intellectual ownership of a Leukaemia UK–funded project, combining data-driven modelling with hands-on experimental validation to generate new insights into cancer biology and treatment response. You will be expected to work independently while remaining closely integrated within a highly collaborative research environment.

Your work will contribute directly to high-quality academic outputs, including peer-reviewed publications, conference presentations, and knowledge exchange activities at national and international levels.

Research environment

You will join a growing and ambitious blood cancer research group at BSMS, working alongside laboratory scientists, computational biologists, and clinical academic colleagues. The post sits within Sussex Blood Cancer Research and the wider Sussex Cancer Research Centre, which brings together cancer researchers across both the University of Sussex and the University of Brighton.

Day-to-day, you will balance computational analysis with experimental work — running simulations, analysing large datasets, and testing predictions through laboratory-based experiments. This role is ideal for a researcher who enjoys moving between disciplines and translating theory into practice.

About you

We are looking for someone who is curious, driven, and eager to push boundaries in cancer research. You will likely have experience in computational biology, systems biology, bioinformatics, or a related field, alongside practical laboratory exposure.

You will bring:

Experience running computational models, simulations, or writing code (or strong motivation to further develop these skills)

Confidence working with published datasets and integrating them with new experimental results

Familiarity with laboratory techniques relevant to cancer biology and molecular signalling, such as:

• Flow cytometry
• Western blotting
• Drug-response and viability assays

Experience with, or willingness to learn:

• Immunofluorescence imaging
• Gene expression analysis
• In vivo experimental approaches

You will be comfortable juggling multiple experimental timelines while using computational analysis productively between laboratory workflows. Strong communication skills are essential, as you will regularly engage with colleagues from different disciplines, clinicians, and non-specialist audiences.

About the School

Brighton and Sussex Medical School is a partnership between the University of Sussex, the University of Brighton, and NHS organisations across the South East. BSMS is recognised for its commitment to high-impact research, inclusive education, and translational medicine — from fundamental discovery to applied clinical practice.

The School fosters a supportive and collaborative culture where academics, technicians, and professional services staff work together to enable both staff and students to thrive in a rapidly evolving healthcare landscape.

BSMS holds a Gold Athena Swan Award, reflecting its sustained commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion in STEMM disciplines.

Why join us?

Our campus sits at the edge of the South Downs National Park, offering a unique balance between world-class research facilities and an exceptional natural environment. The University is easily accessible via public transport, cycling routes, and rail links (Falmer station is a short walk from campus).

As a research-led international university, Sussex offers a comprehensive benefits package, professional development opportunities, and a culture that values collaboration, wellbeing, and impact.

Equality, visas, and right to work

• The University of Sussex is committed to equality of opportunity and actively encourages applications from groups under-represented in academic STEMM roles. Our approach aligns with the Equality Act 2010
• This role meets the salary and occupational requirements for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship when appointed full-time at Grade 7.4
• All work undertaken for the University must be carried out in the UK in accordance with UK right-to-work regulations
• The University’s research culture aligns with national standards for research excellence and integrity, including expectations set out by UK Research and Innovation
• Our commitment to responsible, high-quality research reflects the principles underpinning the UK Research Excellence Framework

Informal enquiries

For an informal discussion about the role, please contact:
Professor Simon Mitchell

Key dates

• Closing date: 1 March 2026 (15:59 UK time)
• Interview date: To be confirmed
• Contract duration: Fixed term until 31 March 2029