Research Fellow Full-time

Research Fellow

We are seeking a highly motivated and self-driven researcher to join the Duff Lab and contribute to an exciting programme of research using advanced spatial omics approaches to investigate neurodegenerative disease.

You will apply spatial transcriptomic and proteomic techniques to human post-mortem brain tissue to investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying Alzheimer's disease and FTD-tau, with a particular focus on the development and progression of tau pathology.

You will generate, analyse and interpret complex omics datasets, using computational and AI-enabled approaches to investigate disease mechanisms and identify potential therapeutic targets. There will also be opportunities to integrate spatial proteomic and transcriptomic approaches and contribute to hypothesis testing using cellular and animal models.

With a strong translational focus, the project aims to inform the development of new therapeutic approaches and biomarkers. This is an exciting opportunity for an ambitious researcher to work at the interface of experimental and computational biology within a collaborative and multidisciplinary environment, while developing their own ideas and scientific expertise.

The role is available immediately and funded by the UK DRI until 31 March 2028 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).

Informal enquiries regarding the role can be addressed to Samantha Henry (s.henry@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, e.g. thesis, paper PDFs, translated documents as these will not be considered by the selection panel.

You will have a PhD in biological science or a closely related discipline, or be close to obtaining one, together with experience in molecular and/or cellular neurobiology and an interest in neurodegenerative disease, particularly Alzheimer's disease and FTD-tau.

You will have experience in developing and applying spatial transcriptomic and/or proteomic approaches, ideally using human post-mortem tissue, together with experience in omics data analysis, interpretation and quality control. Experience with mass spectrometry, protein and/or RNA extraction, immunohistochemistry/immunofluorescence and computational analysis using Python, R and/or Bash is essential.

You will be self-directed, with excellent research, analytical and problem-solving skills, and able to work effectively both independently and collaboratively. You will demonstrate scientific curiosity, independent thinking and initiative, and be able to contribute proactively to the development and delivery of the project.

This role meets the eligibility requirements for a skilled worker certificate of sponsorship or a global talent visa under UK Visas and Immigration legislation. Therefore, UCL welcomes applications from international applicants who require a visa.

Appointment as Research Fellow is dependent upon having been awarded a PhD; if this is not the case, initial appointment will be as Research Assistant (salary £39,807 – £42,891 per annum) with appointment as Research Fellow being backdated to the date of final submission of the PhD thesis.

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.

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.