Research Associate/ Fellow (Fixed Term)

We are seeking a highly motivated and enthusiastic Postdoctoral Research Fellow to join the molecular biology group led by Professor Victoria James at the University of Nottingham. This exciting position is funded by an Alzheimer's Research UK (ARUK) project awarded to Clinical Lead Dr Anto Rajamani and offers an opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research aimed at improving the diagnosis of Dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB).

The successful candidate will deliver the experimental research focused on improving the diagnostic accuracy of a multiplex plasma extracellular vesicle (EV) RNA biomarker assay for DLB. This work has the potential to advance earlier and more accurate diagnosis of one of the most challenging neurodegenerative diseases.

The postholder will lead the generation and analysis of next-generation RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) data from patient-derived extracellular vesicle samples to identify DLB-specific RNA signatures. They will also support the implementation and evaluation of artificial intelligence (AI)-based analytical approaches to improve the sensitivity and specificity of biomarker-based diagnosis.

Working within a multidisciplinary and collaborative environment, you will work closely with the clinical lead, members of the molecular biology laboratory, PhD students, bioinformatics collaborators, and other clinical partners.

This position provides an outstanding opportunity to contribute to translational research with real potential to improve patient diagnosis and care. You will join a supportive and collaborative research environment within the University of Nottingham and work alongside leading researchers in molecular biology, clinical neurology, biomarker discovery, and computational analysis. You will play an important role in driving the project forward while contributing to the development of an inclusive, supportive, and collaborative research culture.

Benefits include:
- A friendly, diverse, and supportive working environment
- A hybrid working arrangement with a blended approach of home and office working
- Generous holiday entitlement of 30 days (or pro rata) plus standard bank holidays and five university closure days including closure between Christmas and New Year
- Staff development through the provision of training, continued support, and career progression opportunities
- Access to a range of benefits and rewards, including fitness and health facilities, staff discounts, and travel schemes

We are committed to fostering equality, diversity, and inclusion and welcome applications from candidates from all backgrounds. Flexible working arrangements and opportunities for career development are supported wherever possible.

This position is a fixed-term contract for 30 months.