Research Assistant Full-time

Research Assistant

Applications are invited for a Research Assistant position in the UCL Department of Inflammation, working within a translational research team based at the Centre for Amyloidosis (CfA). The post holder will play a key role in a priority research project to understand the immune response, isolate and characterise antibodies from patients with systemic amyloidosis. The aims of the project are to use multi-parameter flow cytometry protocols to identify, isolate and then express anti-amyloid antibodies. The post-holder will be involved in characterisation of the binding specificities of expressed antibodies using histology, immunohistochemistry, ELISA, complement and in vitro phagocytosis assays. The successful candidate will work together with current members of the highly focussed CfA laboratory research team.

The aims of the project are to use multi-parameter flow cytometry protocols to identify, isolate and then express anti-amyloid antibodies. The post-holder will assist the existing investigators to characterise the binding specificities of expressed antibodies using histology, immunohistochemistry, ELISA, complement and in vitro phagocytosis assays. Duties and responsibilities include the following: To assist the CfA Investigators by performing laboratory-based research interlinking components of the project including assays of antibody binding characteristics, including Congo red histology, immunohistochemistry, and ELISA assays. There may be a requirement for complement activation assays and in vitro phagocytosis assays. Additionally, to maintain an accurate lab book and file experimental data in a form accessible to other members of the laboratory team. To maintain and update laboratory standard operating procedures and risk assessments as required. To carry out any other duties as are within the scope, spirit and purpose of the job as requested by the PI. Note: this job description reflects the present requirements of the post. As duties and responsibilities change and develop the job description will be reviewed and be subject to amendment in consultation with the post holder. Funding for this post is available until December 2027. This post is not eligible for UCL sponsorship.

Key requirements include BSc, MSc for appointment at Grade 6 in Biology / Immunology / Biomedical Sciences or related subject. General laboratory skills. Experience of working in a research laboratory. Experience in histological techniques. Evidence of outstanding attention to detail and a methodical approach. Accurate and complete record keeping and ability to manage time and work to strict deadlines.

This is an exciting opportunity to join a multidisciplinary team working across the Division of Medicine. 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 https://www.ucl.ac.uk/work-at-ucl/reward-and-benefits to find out more.

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