Description Position Details Department of Metabolism and Systems Sciences Location: University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham UK As this vacancy has limited funding the maximum salary that can be offered is Grade 7, salary £35,880 Full Time, Fixed Term contract up to January 2028 Closing date: 6th January 2025 Background To create and contribute to the creation of knowledge by undertaking a specified range of activities within an established research programme and/or specific research project. Role Summary An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Research Fellow (Grade 7) in the laboratory of Dr Ildem Akerman within the Department of Metabolism and Systems Science (MSS), College of Medicine and Health, University of Birmingham. This post will be funded by the prestigious Steve Morgan Foundation type one diabetes (T1D) Grand Challenge Translational Grant (awarded to Prof David Hodson (principal lead), Oxford University, Dr Ildem Akerman (co-lead), University of Birmingham and Dr Johannes Broichhagen (co-lead), FMP Berlin). We seek a highly motivated, ambitious and pragmatic scientist to join a successful international team to collaborate on a project that aims to leverage our understanding of the GLP1-receptor to improve stem cell generated beta cell function. The project is challenging, innovative and highly translational. The successful candidate will be involved in genetic engineering of stem cells (in collaboration of University of Nottingham stem cell facility), its functional characterization, including but not limited to single cell RNA-sequencing and locus-specific proteome sequencing. We are seeking someone who is familiar with genomic techniques, such as Chip-Seq and ATAC-seq, as well as standard laboratory skills such as mammalian tissue culture, flow cytometry and molecular biology techniques. Experience or interest in learning bioinformatic analysis of genomic data and any experience in stem cell tissue culture and/or pancreatic beta cell biology would be desirable. Responsibilities include: Work within specified research grants and projects and contribute to writing bids Operate within area of specialism Analyse and interpret research findings and results Contribute to generating funding Contribute to licensing or spin out deals with demonstrated commercial success (such as revenues, asset or company sales, IP generated) and/or public understanding of the discipline or similar Main Duties The responsibilities may include some but not all of the responsibilities outlined below. Develop research objectives and proposals for own or joint research, with assistance of a mentor if required Contribute to writing bids for research funding Analyse and interpret data Apply knowledge in a way which develops new intellectual understanding Disseminate research findings for publication, research seminars etc Supervise students on research related work and provide guidance to PhD students where appropriate to the discipline Contribute to developing new models, techniques and methods Undertake management/administration arising from research Contribute to Departmental/School research-related activities and research-related administration Contribute to enterprise, business development and/or public engagement activities of manifest benefit to the College and the University, often under supervision of a project leader Collect research data; this may be through a variety of research methods, such as scientific experimentation, literature reviews, and research interviews Present research outputs, including drafting academic publications or parts thereof, for example at seminars and as posters Provide guidance, as required, to support staff and any students who may be assisting with the research Deal with problems that may affect the achievement of research objectives and deadlines Promotes equality and values diversity acting as a role model and fostering an inclusive working culture. These indicative responsibilities may also be included in a research role at grade 6. Person Specification First degree in area of specialism and normally, a higher degree relevant to research area or equivalent qualifications High level analytical capability Ability to communicate complex information clearly Fluency in relevant models, techniques or methods and ability to contribute to developing new ones Ability to assess resource requirements and use resources effectively Understanding of and ability to contribute to broader management/administration processes Contribute to the planning and organising of the research programme and/or specific research project Co-ordinate own work with others to avoid conflict or duplication of effort Knowledge of the protected characteristics of the Equality Act 2010, and how to actively ensure in day to day activity in own area that those with protected characteristics are treated equally and fairly Please note shortlisted candidates will be asked to deliver a 10 minute presentation about a project you have worked on and how it relates to the role during your interview. Further particulars can be found here Informal enquiries to Ildem Akerman I.Akermanbham.ac.uk We believe there is no such thing as a 'typical' member of University of Birmingham staff and that diversity in its many forms is a strength that underpins the exchange of ideas, innovation and debate at the heart of University life. We are committed to proactively addressing the barriers experienced by some groups in our community and are proud to hold Athena SWAN, Race Equality Charter and Disability Confident accreditations. We have an Equality Diversity and Inclusion Centre that focuses on continuously improving the University as a fair and inclusive place to work where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. We are also committed to sustainability, which is a key part of our strategy. You can find out more about our work to create a fairer university for everyone on our website .