Research Fellow in Biochemistry & Biomedicine (UK Visa Sponsorship)

Job Description

The Opportunity

The School of Life Sciences at the University of Sussex is recruiting a highly driven Research Fellow in Biochemistry & Biomedicine to take a leading role in a 3-year Cancer Research UK–funded project focused on chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML).

This post offers a rare opportunity to lead an independent laboratory research programme, contributing directly to cutting-edge discoveries around RUNX1 mutations and translational control mechanisms. The successful candidate will generate high-quality experimental data that will underpin peer-reviewed publications, conference presentations, and future grant applications.

You will be embedded within a dynamic, collaborative research environment, working closely with Dr Rhys Morgan (School of Life Sciences) and Dr David Palmer (University Hospitals Sussex NHS Trust), strengthening translational links between academia and clinical practice.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, plan, and deliver complex laboratory experiments independently
• Generate robust datasets suitable for high-impact publications and grant submissions
• Supervise undergraduate and postgraduate project students
• Present findings at seminars, research meetings, and national/international conferences
• Contribute to teaching, public engagement activities, and positive research culture
• Collaborate with national partners, including extended research visits to the Universities of Glasgow and Nottingham
• Maintain accurate records, meet project milestones, and communicate progress clearly

About You

You will be a motivated and resilient researcher with strong hands-on laboratory experience and the confidence to troubleshoot complex experimental challenges. You will thrive in a fast-paced research setting and be comfortable managing multiple experiments simultaneously.

Essential experience includes:

• Cellular models (myeloid cell lines, patient samples, stem cell culture)
• Genetic manipulation techniques (RNAi, CRISPR/Cas9, transfection/transduction)
• Molecular and cellular assays (flow cytometry, immunoblotting, RT-qPCR, RNA immunoprecipitation)
• Familiarity with in vitro and/or in vivo experimental systems
• Basic bioinformatics and computational data analysis skills

You will also demonstrate excellent organisation, clear communication skills, and the ability to work collaboratively with laboratory scientists, clinicians, and non-specialist audiences.

Research Environment

You will be part of the Biochemistry & Biomedicine Department, within the University of Sussex’s highly regarded School of Life Sciences. The School brings together expertise across five departments and hosts major research centres, including:

• The Sussex Cancer Research Centre
• The Sussex RNA Biology Centre
• The Genome Damage and Stability Centre
• The Sussex Drug Discovery Centre

The School has a strong research portfolio exceeding £50 million in active grants, with outstanding performance in the Research Excellence Framework (REF), where the majority of outputs were rated world-leading or internationally excellent.

The University is proud of its inclusive, supportive, and collaborative culture, guided by values of kindness, integrity, and courage. The School also holds a Silver Athena Swan Award, reflecting its commitment to equality and diversity.

Why Join Sussex?

Located on a stunning 150-acre campus beside the South Downs National Park, the University of Sussex offers an exceptional working environment with excellent transport links, including a dedicated train station and cycling routes. Staff benefit from a comprehensive rewards package, professional development opportunities, and a strong emphasis on wellbeing.

Visa and Eligibility Information

This role meets the salary and skill requirements for UK Skilled Worker visa sponsorship at full-time Grade 7 level. Applicants requiring sponsorship may also need ATAS clearance, depending on nationality and research area.

For official guidance, please refer to the following UK Government resources:

• UK Skilled Worker visa overview
• Sponsorship eligibility and salary thresholds
• ATAS clearance information
• Right to work in the UK
• Working in the UK as a researcher
• All work for the University must be undertaken within the UK.

Additional Information

Closing Date: 8 March 2026 (04:57 AM)
Interview Date: To be confirmed

The University of Sussex welcomes applications from candidates of all backgrounds and is committed to creating an inclusive and accessible recruitment process.