Research Associate in Cell Biology

Bristol University

The role

Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Associate to join the group of Dr Helen Weavers to investigate how dynamic cell biology supports tissue function and host health.

Research in the Weavers group seeks to understand the cellular mechanisms that enable diverse tissues (including the skin and renal systems) to thrive under challenging conditions (see https://tissueresilience.com). Harnessing powerful in vivo models, our work spans multiple biological scales - linking the molecular cell biology of individual cells to the health of whole tissues and organisms. Our ultimate goal is to identify ways to improve life-long tissue health and recovery.

In this position, we will investigate how cell biology is patterned within the renal system. We will probe why this patterning is fundamental for organ function and how its dysregulation drives disease. This work follows up recent findings from our team (e.g. Holcombe & Weavers Nature Communications 2023). We will employ an integrated, interdisciplinary approach that combines in vivo studies in Drosophila (with state-of-the-art live-imaging, genetics, molecular cell biology, single cell/spatial ‘omics), with innovative technologies and collaborative works on mammalian tissue biology and human organ transplantation.

The position, supported by The Wellcome Trust, offers an exciting opportunity to join a dynamic, enthusiastic team of researchers embedded in the thriving Faculty of Health and Life Sciences community at the University of Bristol.

What will you be doing?

You will investigate how cell biology is patterned within the renal system, and why disruption of this cellular coordination could be a key driver of disease.

We will primarily use Drosophila for unparalleled opportunities to probe the dynamic cell biology of whole tissues and organisms in vivo. A focus of this work will be on cellular metabolism and stress responses, which our group have discovered are key to renal function in homeostasis and following challenge (Holcombe & Weavers Nature Communications 2023; Burbridge et al., Development 2021).

You should apply if

You are highly motivated and have a track record commensurate to career stage. You have a PhD in a relevant subject area or be close to completion of your your degree. Prior expertise in cell and/or developmental biology is required. Previous experience working with Drosophila models is favoured but not essential.

The funds for this position are available for 3 years in the first instance, with potential extension upon mutual agreement. The position is available from February 2026, although the start date is negotiable.

Additional information

For informal enquiries please contact Dr Helen Weavers, Associate Professor in Cell and Developmental Biology via email: helen.weavers@bristol.ac.uk

Applications should include a CV and brief statement outlining key areas of expertise and reasons why you would like to join our group.

Contract type: Open-ended, with fixed funding for 3 years
Work pattern: Full-time
Grade: I
Salary: £39,906- £44,746 per annum
School/Unit: School of Biochemistry and Cellular and Molecular Medicine

This advert will close at 23:59 UK time on Sunday 25th January 2026