Research Associate (Skeletal Muscle Metabolism)

Join a university that's shaping the future. At Manchester Metropolitan University, we're dedicated to excellence in education and research, and we're looking for passionate individuals to help us continue our journey. Be part of a dynamic team that's making a real difference. 

We are looking to appoint a talented, enthusiastic and dedicated research associate (RA) to join the laboratory of Dr. Nathan Hodson for 15 months to investigate the mechanisms underpinning obesity-related dysregulation of protein metabolism in human skeletal muscle. 

About the Role and Department:

The project will consist of experimental human trials involving exercise/nutritional modulation and biological sample (muscle and blood) collection in obese and non-obese individuals. Subsequent analysis will then include a range of wet-laboratory techniques to assess anabolic/autophagic signalling, gene expression, protein-protein interactions and enzyme colocalization.  The successful candidate will be expected to work with experts within the Department of Sport and Exercise Sciences, which provides state of the art research facilities located newly refurbished laboratories, as well as the Department of Life Sciences, and collaborators at Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Copenhagen.

This post is based in the Department of Sport and Exercise Sciences within the Institute of Sport, a purpose-built building developed to provide an optimal environment for Sport and Health-based research. Within the institute, the successful candidate will have access to an array of facilities and equipment to undertake world-leading research in skeletal muscle metabolism.

In addition, the candidate will also have access to the spacious, modern and well-equipped research facilities within our newly-opened Dalton Building which offers state-of-the-art analytical laboratories, a variety of high-level microscopes and genomic services. This particular post is available on a fixed-term, full-time (1.0 FTE) basis for 15 months and is funded by an Academy of Medical Sciences Springboard Award.

Other duties and responsibilities include:

• Maintaining accurate records of research conducted and carry out analysis of the results obtained using the most appropriate method.
• Working independently and in conjunction with other investigators and collaborators.
• Preparing research findings for publication and presentation.
• Assisting with applications for research grant funding
• Assisting in the supervision of postgraduate students, PhD students and Technicians in the laboratory.
• Participating in the activities of the research group via meetings and seminars
• Being familiar with national, University and Hospital Trust regulations with regards to research governance

The Faculty of Science and Engineering is an exciting and dynamic environment in which to conduct cutting edge research.

About you:

The successful candidate will hold, or be nearing completion of, a doctoral level degree in Muscle Physiology, Exercise Metabolism, Biochemistry or a related area. The ideal candidate will possess knowledge, expertise and research experience in skeletal muscle protein metabolism and cell signalling, and ideally practical experience in preparation/processing of human biological samples, microscopy, immunoblotting, analysis of cell signalling events and/or gene expression analysis.

Required Qualifications:

• Hold or expect to obtain shortly a PhD in relevant sciences subject i.e. Muscle Physiology, Exercise Metabolism, Biochemistry or a related area.
• Application Requirements:

Experience of the following would be advantageous:

• Experience of conducting human exercise/nutrition trials involving the collection of biological samples (e.g. skeletal muscle or blood)
• Experience in processing and preparing biological samples for laboratory analysis
• Experience in microscopy, immunoblotting and gene expression analysis.

To Apply:

Please submit your CV and Cover Letter via our portal, by clicking the "apply" button.

For an informal discussion, please contact; Dr Nathan Hodson (n.hodson@mmu.ac.uk)

Please be aware that only applications including a cover letter may be considered at shortlisting stage. 

Manchester Metropolitan University fosters an inclusive culture of belonging that promotes equity and celebrates diversity. We value a diverse workforce for the innovation and diversity of thought it brings and welcome applications from local and international communities, particularly those from Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic backgrounds, disabled people, and LGBTQ+ individuals.

We support a range of flexible working arrangements, including hybrid and tailored schedules, which can be discussed with your line manager. If you require reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process or in your role, please let us know so we can provide appropriate support.

Our commitment to inclusivity includes mentoring programmes, accessibility resources and professional development opportunities to empower and support underrepresented groups.