Research Fellow in Biochemistry & Biomedicine (UK Visa Sponsorship)

Job Description

The Role

The University of Sussex invites applications for a Research Fellow to join Dr Rhys Morgan’s laboratory within the Department of Biochemistry & Biomedicine. This post supports a three-year project funded by Cancer Research UK, entitled:

“Detecting and targeting translation inhibitor sensitive RUNX1 mutations in chronic myeloid leukaemia.”

This position offers the opportunity to take scientific ownership of a translational cancer research project focused on understanding and targeting molecular vulnerabilities in chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML). You will generate high-quality experimental data to support peer-reviewed publications, funding applications, and national and international conference presentations.

You will also contribute to postgraduate supervision, public engagement, and the School’s wider research culture.

The project forms part of a growing clinical-academic partnership between the School of Life Sciences and University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust, and is embedded within the Sussex Cancer Research Centre and Sussex RNA Biology Centre.

What You Will Do

• Lead laboratory-based investigations into RUNX1 mutations and translational regulation in CML.
• Design, execute and analyse experiments across in vitro and in vivo systems.
• Contribute to manuscript preparation and funding applications.
• Present findings at internal seminars and external scientific conferences.
• Supervise project students and support collaborative research activities.
• Undertake short research visits to collaborators at the University of Glasgow and the University of Nottingham.
• Maintain accurate research records in line with UK research integrity standards.

All research activity must align with UK regulatory and governance frameworks, including:

• UKRI Good Research Conduct guidance
• Human Tissue Authority regulations (where applicable)
• Health Research Authority governance standards
• Genetically Modified Organisms (Contained Use) Regulations guidance
• ATAS (Academic Technology Approval Scheme) requirements for relevant visa applicants

About You

This is a laboratory-intensive post suited to a researcher with strong experimental expertise and intellectual independence.

Essential experience includes:

• Myeloid cell line, stem cell, and patient-derived sample culture.
• Genetic manipulation techniques such as RNAi and CRISPR/Cas9.
• Molecular biology techniques including RT-qPCR, immunoblotting, RNA immunoprecipitation and flow cytometry.
• Competence in transfection/transduction protocols.
• Basic bioinformatics and computational data analysis.

You will demonstrate:

• Scientific ambition and resilience in troubleshooting complex experiments.
• Ability to manage multiple parallel workstreams.
• Strong organisational skills and laboratory stewardship.
• Effective communication with clinicians, scientists and non-specialist audiences.
• Reliability in reporting progress and meeting milestones.
• A collaborative mindset is essential, as you will work across research groups and clinical teams.

About the School of Life Sciences

The School of Life Sciences at the University of Sussex brings together research excellence across chemistry, molecular biosciences, neuroscience, ecology, and genome stability.

Key features include:

• A research portfolio exceeding £50 million.
• Approximately 50% of School income derived from research.
• Three University Centres of Excellence.
• REF 2021 results with over 90% of Biological Sciences outputs rated world-leading or internationally excellent.
• A Silver Athena Swan Award recognising commitment to equality and inclusion.
• The School fosters interdisciplinary collaboration and values kindness, integrity, inclusion, collaboration and courage.

Working at Sussex

Located near the South Downs National Park and accessible via Falmer Station, the campus provides:

• A research-led academic environment.
• Cross-disciplinary cancer and RNA biology networks.
• Flexible working arrangements (subject to operational needs).
• A strong culture of mentorship and early-career development.

Eligibility & Sponsorship

This post meets Skilled Worker visa salary requirements if appointed full-time at Grade 7.4. Visa applicants may require ATAS clearance depending on nationality and research area.

All work must be carried out within the United Kingdom.