Research Fellow

About us

The Department of Neuromuscular Diseases is a hub for clinical and research excellence across the spectrum of spinal cord and neuromuscular diseases. Our group of world-leading clinical, genetic and basic science researchers focus their work on understanding the causes and biological mechanisms leading to neuromuscular diseases and translating this knowledge into developing novel therapeutic solutions that is of direct benefit to neurological disorders.

Based in the department, the Fratta/Keuss Laboratory focuses on understanding and developing therapeutic approaches for motor neuron diseases. The lab uses a combination of iPSC-derived neurons, postmortem patient brain tissue, and mouse models to identify early splicing changes relevant to the disease and to investigate novel strategies to correct them.

About the role

We are seeking a Research Fellow to join our dynamic research group that integrates cell biology, molecular biology, and bioinformatics to investigate these fundamental mechanisms with direct translational relevance. You will use established cell lines and iPSC-derived neurons to test and develop cutting-edge experimental approaches.

This research is part of a collaborative initiative with Dr Ariana Gatt (UCL) and Dr Jack Humphrey (Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, USA), offering the opportunity to work within an internationally connected research environment.

The role is available immediately and funded by an award from the MyName’5 Doddie Foundation 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 ().

Informal enquiries regarding the role can be addressed to Dr Matthew Keuss ().

A full job description and person specification for this role can be accessed below.

About you

You will hold a PhD in Molecular Biology, Neuroscience, or a related discipline. Essential experience includes library preparation for RNA sequencing and other high-throughput transcriptomic approaches, CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing, and working with iPSCs and their differentiation into neurons. Strong problem-solving skills and good interpersonal skills, with the ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary environment, are also required.

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

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 £39,148 - £41,833 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, 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.

Customer advert reference: B02-09270

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