Senior Research Fellow (Cellular Myologist)

The Department of Neurodegenerative Disease is internationally recognised for research into the mechanisms underlying neurodegenerative diseases and dementia, spanning genetic, molecular, cellular and neuropathological processes.

Based within the department, the Genetic Therapy Accelerator Centre (GTAC) brings together laboratory and clinical expertise in neuromuscular and neurological disorders, with a focus on developing novel RNA and AAV-based therapies. The Centre fosters cross-institutional collaborations and supports researchers through access to specialist expertise, cellular models, UCL facilities and industry partners.

We are seeking a highly motivated Senior Research Fellow (Cellular Myologist) to join the GTAC Laboratory under the direction of Professor Francesco Muntoni, working across the UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology and UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health.

You will develop and lead your own research programme in neuromuscular biology, working across GTAC and the Dubowitz Neuromuscular Centre (DNC). You will independently design and conduct research, contribute to collaborative projects, secure research funding and present findings at seminars and conferences.

You will also contribute specialist expertise to multidisciplinary projects across neuroscience, support the day-to-day running of the Centre and supervise students and research staff.

The role is available from 01 September 2026 and is funded until 01 December 2029 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 at ucl.ac.uk).

Informal enquiries regarding the role can be addressed to Professor Francesco Muntoni (f.muntoni at ucl.ac.uk).

Application deadline: 23:59, Tuesday, 06 October 2026.

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 will have a PhD in a relevant discipline and significant postdoctoral experience in cell and molecular biology, with expertise in neuromuscular translational research and skeletal muscle biology, and strong experience in the effective management of research team. Specialist knowledge of relevant research methodologies, including in vivo and in vitro models, gene expression manipulation (e.g. siRNA, CRISPRi/a, splicing modulation, AAV and lentiviral vectors) and cell-based assays (e.g. fluorescent reporters and immunocytochemistry), is essential. Experience with animal models and/or genetic therapies, including AAV, RNA or cell therapy, is also required.

You will be able to manage independent experimental research effectively, write grant applications to support your research programme, work flexibly under pressure, meet deadlines and maintain excellent attention to detail.

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.

Advert information