Research Fellow in In Vitro Models of Human Disease

We are seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Associate (PDRA) to join the MIMIC programme: An interconnected multiorgan platform to recreate the complex pathophysiology of Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD), a major UKRI-funded, interdisciplinary research initiative involving leading academic, clinical, and industrial partners across the UK, Europe, and the USA. MASLD is a complex multisystem metabolic disease involving pathological crosstalk between the liver, adipose tissue, gut, and immune system. The MIMIC programme aims to develop human, immunocompetent, patientderived multiorgan models, using induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and organonchip technologies, to better understand disease mechanisms and accelerate therapeutic discovery. This PDRA post focuses on the development and characterisation of iPSCderived adipose tissue models and their integration into multitissue platforms. The Role Role The successful candidate will play a central role in contributing to the generation of biomimetic, immunocompetent adipose tissue constructs derived from human iPSCs. Working closely with stem cell biologists, immunologists, and bioengineers across the MIMIC consortium, the PDRA will: Develop and optimise iPSCderived adipocyte differentiation protocols Generate 3D adipose tissue organoids incorporating stromal, endothelial, and immune cell populationsPerform indepth molecular, phenotypic and metabolic characterisation of adipose modelsInvestigate inflammatory and metabolic dysfunction relevant to MASLDContribute to multiorgan integration, i.e. adiposelivergut crosstalk Support benchmarking of invitro findings against clinical and patientderived data This role provides an exceptional opportunity to work at the cutting edge of human disease modelling, immunometabolism, and regenerative medicine within a large, wellfunded collaborative programme. About You You will hold a PhD/DPhil or equivalent a relevant discipline along with: Strong handson experience of stem cell-derived modelsDemonstrated expertise in adipose tissue biology and adipocyte differentiationExperience with 3D cell culture, organoid systems, or coculture modelsSolid grounding in molecular and cellular biology techniques Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a large interdisciplinary programme Informal enquiries are welcome and may be directed to: Jaswinder Sethi (j.sethi@soton.ac.uk). Please note that applications sent only to this email address will not be accepted. What We Offer An exciting post within a highprofile UKRIfunded research programmeAccess to worldclass facilities and international collaboratorsStrong mentorship and career development, including training and conference supportOpportunities for collaboration, secondments, and interdisciplinary skills developmentA generous holiday allowance as well as additional university closure daysA vibrant, inclusive, and supportive research environment Email details to a friend Apply Online Further Details Job Description and Person Specification We are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and welcome applicants who support our mission of inclusivity. Apply by 11.59 pm UK time on the closing date. For assistance contact Recruitment on +44(0)2380 592750 or recruitment@soton.ac.uk quoting the job number. Share View All Vacancies .