Research Fellow

About us

The UK Dementia Research Institute (UK DRI), a globally leading multidisciplinary research institute of over 900 staff investigating the spectrum of neurodegenerative disorders causing dementia, is the biggest UK initiative supporting research to fill this gap.

The Bartels Lab at the UK DRI at UCL specializes in the study of synuclein multimers and lipidomics in the context of Parkinson’s disease (PD). The lab plays a unique role in this field, addressing key research gaps through close collaborations with the National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery and the Queen Square Brain Bank.

Dr Tim Bartels first discovered disease resistant forms of the α-synuclein protein and their destabilization in Parkinson’s Disease. His lab is interested in identifying the different factors that destabilize α-synuclein and that lead to neurotoxicity.

About the role

We are seeking a Research Fellow to join one of several research projects, including a study on the role of myelination in Parkinson’s disease. This project involves the analysis of patient skin samples as well as Schwann cell / neuronal co-culture via Correlative Electron and Light Microscopy (CLEM).

The post is available from October 2025 and is funded by UK DRI @ UCL for one year in the first instance.

For a full job description and to apply for this role please visit UCL’s online recruitment portal (https://www.ucl.ac.uk/work-at-ucl/search-ucl-jobs) and search using vacancy reference B02-08818.

About you

You will have a PhD, MD or equivalent experience in a Biophysics/Biochemistry/Molecular Biology or a related discipline, and experience with CLEM (Correlative Electron And Light Microscopy). A background and knowledge in one or more of the following is essential: Neurodegeneration, synucleinopathies, biochemical analysis such as detergent extraction and Western Blot, cell culture experience, IHC. The ability to present complex scientific concepts and content, written and verbal, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment, to meet deadlines and handle pressure is also a requirement, as is an understanding of the mission of the UK DRI, an interest in its research work and a commitment to supporting high quality research.

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.

What we offer

As well as the exciting opportunities this role presents, we also offer some great benefits; 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

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. 12% of Institute staff are actively working on EDI initiatives; visit https://www.ucl.ac.uk/ion/equality-diversity-inclusion for more information about what we’re doing. We therefore particularly encourage applications from candidates who are likely to be underrepresented in UCL’s workforce; t.hese 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.

Customer advert reference: B02-08818

Advert information