Research Fellow – Department of Cancer and Genomic Sciences – 107665 – Grade 7 Full-time

Job Description

Department of Cancer and Genomic Sciences, School of Medical Sciences, College of Medicine and Health

Location: University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham UK

Full time starting salary is normally in the range £36,636 to £46,049 with potential progression once in post to £48,822

Grade: 7

Full Time, Fixed Term contract up to September 2027

Background: We are seeking a highly motivated and talented individual to work as a Research Fellow in the Cancer Research UK RadNet Birmingham Centre of Excellence, directed by Professor Jason Parsons. You will contribute to cutting-edge research investigating the biology of FLASH radiotherapy. This work will be delivered using our unique, and national, radiation resources for proton and high-LET radiation. RadNet Birmingham is a multidisciplinary partnership across the Department of Cancer and Genomic Sciences and the School of Physics and Astronomy.

Specifically, the project will use in vitro (2D cell lines, 3D spheroids and patient-derived organoids) and replacement in vivo (chick embryo) models of radioresistant tumours to characterise the molecular and cellular impact of ultra-high dose rate (FLASH) delivery of both protons and photons on normal versus tumour tissues, particularly in the context of DNA damage repair and survival pathways. This will also involve determining the critical proteins and pathways that mediate normal tissue sparing in comparison to conventional dose rate delivery. Research will utilise a FLASH photon system recently awarded through an MRC equipment grant, and FLASH protons delivered through the MC-40 cyclotron.

Our long term goal is to contribute to improvements in cancer patient outcome and reduced treatment toxicities following radiotherapy.

Role Summary: Work within the specified research grant and project

Operate within the area of radiobiology and FLASH

Analyse and interpret research findings and results

Contribute to generating peer-reviewed publications and further grant funding

Main Duties: The responsibilities include:

• Contribution to the development of radiobiology research as part of Cancer Research UK RadNet Birmingham
• Work closely and communicate effectively with other members of RadNet Birmingham and with colleagues in the School of Physics and Astronomy
• Take responsibility for taking key decisions regarding the project and planning future experiments
• Acquire, analyse and interpret research data acquired using a variety of research methods and apply knowledge in a way which develops new intellectual understanding
• Contribute to developing new models, techniques and methods
• Disseminate research findings for publication, seminars, conferences, etc
• Assist in the supervision of PhD, masters and undergraduate students on research related work
• Provide guidance, as required, to support staff and any students who may be assisting with the research
• Present research outputs, including drafting academic publications or parts thereof, for example at seminars and scientific conferences
• Deal with problems that may affect the achievement of research objectives and deadlines
• Promote equality and value diversity acting as a role model and fostering an inclusive working culture

Person Specification: Essential criteria:

• PhD (or near to completion) in radiation biology, cancer biology, molecular biology (or another relevant discipline)
• Evidence of playing a key role in a leading-edge scientific research project
• Substantial laboratory expertise using molecular and cellular biology techniques
• Experience running diverse laboratory experiments
• Evidence of prior research productivity
• Excellent project planning, organisational and time-management skills
• Excellent data acquisition, recording and scientific writing skills
• Excellent communication skills, and in delivering oral presentations at national/international meetings
• Familiarity with key research literature
• Highly motivated and keen to learn
• Constant ability to produce high quality/quantity of work
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team
• Punctual, reliable and professional approach to work
• Excellent attention to detail and ability to prioritise work

Desirable criteria:

• Expertise in radiobiology research relating to proton or FLASH radiotherapy
• Knowledge of the molecular and cellular responses to ionising radiation of increasing LET, particularly DNA damage repair and cell survival pathways
• Significant expertise of cellular culture techniques, including the utilisation of 3D spheroid and organoid models
• Previous experience of the chick embryo model would be advantageous
• Previous experience of head and neck cancer research would be advantageous
• First author publication(s) in a peer-reviewed journal
• Good laboratory practice and skills
• Ability to solve scientific problems
• Ability to assist in the supervision of masters and undergraduate project students

Informal enquiries to Jason Parsons, email: j.parsons.3@bham.ac.uk