Research Fellow in Biochemistry & Biomedicine(UK Visa Sponsorship)

Job Description

The Opportunity

A fully funded three-year position is available in the research group of Dr Rhys Morgan within the School of Life Sciences at the University of Sussex. This post is supported by Cancer Research UK and centres on a translational project titled:

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

The role offers a unique opportunity to bridge molecular biology, translational cancer research and clinical collaboration. You will take scientific ownership of the project, generating robust experimental data to support high-impact publications, further funding bids and conference presentations.

Working closely with Dr Morgan and in partnership with Dr David Palmer (University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust), you will be part of an emerging clinical–academic alliance focused on blood cancer innovation. You will also integrate into the Sussex Blood Cancer Research network, the Sussex RNA Biology Centre, and the Sussex Cancer Research Centre, gaining access to a vibrant interdisciplinary research environment.

What You Will Be Doing

This is a hands-on, laboratory-intensive research post with intellectual independence and collaborative responsibility.

Research Leadership

• Design and execute experiments investigating RUNX1 mutations in chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML).
• Generate publication-quality data for peer-reviewed journals and grant applications.
• Present findings at internal seminars and national/international scientific conferences.

Technical Scope

The project will involve a combination of:

• Cellular systems: Myeloid cell lines, primary patient samples, stem cell culture
• Genetic tools: RNAi, CRISPR/Cas9, transfection and transduction methods
• Molecular techniques: Flow cytometry, immunoblotting, RT-qPCR, RNA immunoprecipitation
• Computational analysis: Basic bioinformatics and data interpretation

You will also contribute to in vivo experimental work where required and undertake collaborative research visits to the Universities of Glasgow and Nottingham.

Academic & Collegial Contributions

• Supervise undergraduate or postgraduate research students.
• Contribute to teaching support, public engagement activities and research culture initiatives.
• Participate actively in laboratory management and collaborative project development.

All laboratory activities must align with UK health, safety and regulatory standards, including:

• Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974
• Genetically Modified Organisms (Contained Use) Regulations 2014
• Human Tissue Act 2004
• Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations 2002
• Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986 (if applicable to in vivo work)

Who We Are Looking For

You will be an ambitious and resilient researcher who thrives in a dynamic laboratory environment.

Essential Profile

• A PhD (or near completion) in biochemistry, molecular biology, cancer biology or a related discipline.
• Demonstrable laboratory expertise across cellular, genetic and molecular techniques.
• Confidence managing multiple experiments concurrently.
• Computational literacy and ability to perform fundamental bioinformatic analyses.
• Strong communication skills across scientific, clinical and non-specialist audiences.

Personal Qualities

• Scientifically curious and proactive in troubleshooting.
• Organised and dependable in reporting progress.
• Collaborative, collegial and willing to support the wider research team.
• Motivated to develop new methodologies where necessary.
• This role will suit someone aiming to establish a strong postdoctoral track record in translational cancer biology.

About the School of Life Sciences

The School of Life Sciences at the University of Sussex brings together expertise spanning Chemistry, Cellular and Molecular Biosciences, Neuroscience, Ecology and Evolution. Research is interdisciplinary, innovative and impact-driven.

The School hosts five departments:

• Biochemistry & Biomedicine
• Genome Damage and Stability Centre
• Neuroscience
• Ecology & Evolution
• Chemistry
• It also houses the Sussex Drug Discovery Centre, supporting bench-to-bedside translation.

Approximately half of the School’s income derives from research activity, with an active grant portfolio exceeding £50 million. In the 2021 Research Excellence Framework, over 90% of Biological Sciences outputs were rated world-leading or internationally excellent.

The School holds a Silver Athena Swan Award and is committed to fostering an inclusive, supportive and collaborative environment grounded in kindness, integrity and courage.

Why Join the University of Sussex?

Set within 150 acres beside the South Downs National Park, the campus offers a unique working environment combining natural beauty with research excellence. Falmer train station is a short walk from campus, with strong public transport links and cycling infrastructure.

The University is internationally recognised for research and teaching excellence, driven by a diverse and talented community.

Eligibility & Visa Information

This position meets the Skilled Worker visa salary threshold if appointed full-time at Grade 7.4. It may also require ATAS clearance depending on nationality and visa status. Further information is available via the UK Government Skilled Worker guidance:

Skilled Worker visa overview

All work must be undertaken within the United Kingdom.