Postdoctoral Research Fellow (Bonfanti Lab) Full-time

Postdoctoral Research Fellow (Bonfanti Lab)

Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Fellow (Band 7) position in the UCL Division of Infection and Immunity in the research team led by Prof. Paola Bonfanti currently based at the Francis Crick Institute.

The Bonfanti lab is seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to join an exciting project investigating the role of thymus regeneration in healthy ageing and disease. Leveraging access to unique clinical cohorts and mouse models, we aim to dissect the critical role of the thymus in adaptive immunity reshaping how we understand tolerance and autoimmune disease onset. The post is funded by a European Research Council (ERC Advanced Grant, Horizon Europe Guarantee Scheme) research grant.

This project will cover a combination of experimental and computational approaches to investigate thymus function. This overall research aims to transform how thymus-related conditions are treated, with potential impacts on ageing, cancer, and immune disorders. In collaboration with clinical partners, we will also study thymus function and organisation in patients. This work offers a unique opportunity to bridge fundamental biology with translational insights and immune-based therapies.

Prof. Bonfanti directs an interdisciplinary team, across two main institutions. The proposed project stems from a joint collaborative effort with the University partner (UCL) and developed thanks to the Secondment programme UCL/Crick of the lead applicants who have access to all Science Technology Platforms (STPs) and Crick scientific environment. The Crick support staff collaboratively working across disciplines to understand the fundamental biology of health and disease and the translational science team helps rapidly turning discoveries into treatments. The Crick's STPs provide researchers with access to state-of-the-art equipment and technical advice in the effective use of the technologies e.g., spatial technologies platforms, imaging, advanced sequencing, bioinformatic support and mouse genetic modification service.

See for further background information.

About the role

The post-holder will be expected to perform the highest quality research under the direction of the Principal Investigator, and to work effectively with internal and external collaborators involved in the project and other group members.

The successful candidate will play a key role in developing an innovative cross-disciplinary approach to understand and drive thymus regeneration, combining clinical data, in vivo models, advanced ex vivo and in vitro technologies with computational science. Building on our recent findings, the successful candidate will be expected to undertake independent high-quality molecular analyses. In parallel, the researcher will explore alterations in thymic epithelial composition in pathological contexts. By clarifying how altered epithelial subtypes affect immune regulation, the findings will support the development of improved diagnostic tools and selective therapeutic strategies. The successful applicant will join a collaborative, cross-disciplinary team at the interface of developmental immunology, epithelial biology, computational science and clinical research.

The successful candidate will also be expected to generate, analyse, and present scientific findings from the work undertaken to a broad range of audiences, both internal and external to UCL and the Crick.

The position is offered for 1 year in the first instance. The position may be extended, dependent on project success, and scientific priorities. The position will suit a motivated postdoctoral scientist who enjoys working as part of a multidisciplinary team and wishes to develop their career and pursue opportunities for independent fellowships.

About you

The successful applicant should have a PhD or equivalent (or soon to be awarded) in Biology/Biomedical Sciences or a related subject and have significant experience working in a research laboratory.

A high level of attention to detail and a proven commitment to scientific excellence are essential. Competency in molecular biology and animal models are essential. Molecular biology experience includes wet and dry lab RNA sequencing and data analysis skills.

Candidates must have a track record of showing important contributions to research, excellent oral and written scientific communications skills, commitment to collaboration in research and to taking a multidisciplinary approach to problem solving. They must be highly organised, able to manage their time and work to strict deadlines. They must be able to deal pleasantly and effectively with a wide range of people and keep accurate and detailed written laboratory records.

Note: Appointment at grade 7 is dependent upon having been awarded a PhD; if this is not the case, initial appointment will be at the Research Assistant Grade 6B with payment at Grade 7 being backdated to the date of final submission of the PhD thesis.

Informal enquiries regarding the vacancy can be made by email to Prof. Paola Bonfanti.

All applications must include a supporting statement, telling us, using examples, how you meet the essential criteria listed in the job description. Applications without a supporting statement will be rejected.

If you have any queries about the role or application process, technical issues, or need reasonable adjustments or a more accessible format to apply for this job online, please contact the staffing team.

What we offer

As well as the exciting opportunities this role presents, we also offer some great benefits some of which are below:

• 41 Days holiday (27 days annual leave 8 bank holiday and 6 closure days)
• Additional 5 days' annual leave purchase scheme
• Defined benefit career average revalued earnings pension scheme (CARE)
• Cycle to work scheme and season ticket loan
• Immigration loan
• Relocation scheme for certain posts
• On-Site nursery
• On-site gym
• Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption pay
• Employee assistance programme: Staff Support Service
• Discounted medical insurance

Visit to find out more.

Our commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

As London's Global University, we know diversity fosters creativity and innovation, and we want our community to represent the diversity of the world's talent. We are committed to equality of opportunity, to being fair and inclusive, and to being a place where we all belong. We therefore particularly encourage applications from candidates who are likely to be underrepresented in UCL's workforce. These include people from Black, Asian and ethnic minority backgrounds; disabled people; LGBTQI+ people; and for our Grade 9 and 10 roles, women.

Our department holds an Athena SWAN Silver award, in recognition of our commitment and demonstrable impact in advancing gender equality.

Available documents

• download: Postdoctoral Research Fellow JD-Bonfanto Lab.pdf
• download: TalentLink Candidate Guidance.pdf