Research Assistant Full-time NEW

Research Assistant

We are now recruiting a Research Assistant to work on a project that aims to develop therapeutic approaches for the neurodegenerative disease Fronto-Temporal Degeneration (FTD) by removing pathological tau forms from affected neurons in the brain. We are particularly interested in the role of the E3 ligase TRIM11 both in pathology development, and in its potential as a therapeutic to remove pathological tau. Two approaches are being developed; a genetic therapy approach to enhance activity of TRIM11 in the brain, and a molecular glue approach to increase the interaction of TRIM11 on substrate. The post is available immediately and funded by the UK DRI at UCL for one year in the first instance.

If you need reasonable adjustments or a more accessible format to apply for this job online, or have any queries regarding the application process, please contact the Institute of Neurology HR Team (ion.hradmin@ucl.ac.uk).

A full job description and person specification for this role can be accessed below. To apply, please upload a current CV, complete the online application form, and use the supporting statement section or upload a cover letter to outline how you meet the essential and desirable criteria for the role. Please do not upload any additional attachments as these will not be considered by the selection panel.

You'll have a BSc in biology, or a biology-adjacent or technology field, coupled with experience in E3 Ligase biology, structural mass spec-based approaches, with structural biology analysis software, microscopy and image acquisition, and recombinant protein preparation. Experience in developing and implementing mouse models, with in vitro assay set up, and with basic molecular biology and biochemistry techniques (including RNA extraction, PCR, RT-qPCR, plasmid and viral preps, Western blotting) is also essential for this role.

Starting salary offered in the range £39,148 – £41,833 per annum, inclusive of London Allowance. As well as the exciting opportunities this role presents, we also offer 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
• 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. We will consider applications to work on a part-time, flexible, and job share basis wherever possible. This appointment is subject to UCL Terms and Conditions of Service for Research and Professional Services Staff. Please visit https://www.ucl.ac.uk/human-resources/conditions-service-research-teaching-and-professional-services-staff for more information.

Our Commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

The Institute prides itself on operating in an all-inclusive environment irrespective of personal, physical, or social characteristics. Teamwork is highly valued, individual strengths are recognised and celebrated, and we are committed to advancing the careers of everyone. 12% of Institute staff are actively working on Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) initiatives; visit our EDI website for more information about our initiatives and priorities. The Institute also holds an Athena SWAN Gold award, in recognition of our commitment and demonstrable impact in advancing gender equality.

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+ and gender diverse people in all roles, and women in Grade 9 and 10 roles.