Job Summary
The University of Southampton is seeking a motivated and enthusiastic Research Fellow to join the Salah Elias laboratory. This position is part of a BBSRC-funded project investigating the mechanisms of mammary epithelial morphogenesis using AI-integrated human organoid models and predictive cell fate mapping. It offers a prime opportunity to work at the interface of cell and developmental biology, advanced imaging, molecular phenotyping, and computational biology.
Job Details Overview
| Designation | Research Fellow |
| Research Area | Cell and Developmental Biology / Organoid Biology / Morphogenesis |
| Location | Highfield Campus, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom |
| Salary | £39,560 to £41,885 per annum |
| Employment Type | Full Time, Fixed Term (36 months / 3 years) |
| Reference Number | 3545826BJ |
| Last Date for Apply | Wednesday, 09 December 2026 (11:59 pm UK time) |
Job Description
The successful candidate will take a central role in leading the experimental research within an interdisciplinary project combining patient-derived mammary organoids, high-resolution 3D/4D imaging, single-cell transcriptomics, and AI-driven predictive modeling. Key responsibilities include:
- Leading experimental design, execution, data analysis, and interpretation.
- Utilizing patient-derived human mammary organoids and gene loss-of-function approaches.
- Conducting high-resolution 3D/4D fluorescence microscopy, fate mapping, and single-cell RNA sequencing.
- Collaborating closely with computational researchers to integrate multimodal imaging and transcriptomic datasets into AI-driven mechanistic models.
- Troubleshooting experimental protocols and contributing scientific ideas for grant proposals.
- Preparing findings for publication in leading international peer-reviewed journals.
- Mentoring junior colleagues and training team members in novel laboratory techniques.
Eligibility & Qualification
- Education: A PhD (or close to completing one) in Cell Biology, Developmental Biology, Stem Cell Biology, or a related discipline.
- Technical Experience: Strong experimental expertise in organoid or mammalian cell culture, epithelial biology, high-resolution fluorescence microscopy, and molecular biology.
- Image Analysis: Experience with automated or semi-automated quantitative image analysis is highly valuable.
- Interdisciplinary Skills: An understanding of computational or mathematical modeling is advantageous (though not essential).
- Soft Skills: Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, proactive scientific inquiry, and the ability to work collaboratively across disciplines.
What We Offer
- Access to world-class facilities including advanced microscopy, flow cytometry, and high-performance computing clusters.
- Generous holiday entitlement along with additional University closure days.
- Support for flexible working arrangements and work-life balance.
- Membership in the Universities Superannuation Scheme (USS).
- Subsidised health and fitness facilities, along with various staff discount schemes.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should apply online via the University of Southampton vacancies portal before the deadline. For informal enquiries about the post, please contact Dr. Salah Elias via email at S.K.Elias@soton.ac.uk.
For technical assistance with the application process, contact the recruitment team at recruitment@soton.ac.uk or call +44(0)2380 592750, quoting job reference 3545826BJ.
Important Links
Apply Online at University of Southampton Vacancies
