Research Fellow

About us

The Department of Clinical and Movement Neurosciences at the UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology is a world-leading centre bringing together clinical and basic science expertise to understand human movement and movement disorders. Based across the Queen Square and Royal Free campuses, the Department includes the Reta Lila Weston Institute, the Movement Disorders Centre and the Unit of Functional Neurosurgery.

Our research spans basic neuroscience, clinical research and translational science, investigating conditions including Parkinson’s disease, dystonia, stroke and motor neurone disease. We combine advanced neuroimaging and neurophysiological techniques with molecular biology and cellular, animal and human models to improve understanding, diagnosis and treatment of neurological disorders. Through strong collaborations with UCL, the National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, the Royal Free London and international partners, we offer an excellent multidisciplinary research and training environment.

About the role

We are seeking a highly motivated Research Fellow to join the PARK-SEED study at the UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology. This ambitious project aims to develop and apply alpha-synuclein and tau seed amplification assays (SAAs) to improve the diagnosis and prognosis of Parkinson’s disease (PD) and progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), support clinical trials and identify novel disease-modifying targets.

You will lead the development and implementation of tau SAAs, including tau substrate purification, and apply these assays to clinical and post-mortem patient samples. You will analyse data, contribute to publications, supervise early career researchers and have opportunities to develop your own research projects.

Working with clinicians and researchers across UCL, the UK Dementia Research Institute and international collaborations, you will develop expertise in SAA techniques, genetic analysis and clinical research, with opportunities to publish and present your findings at national and international conferences.

The role is available immediately and funded by the Medical Research Council (MRC) for three years 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 Dr Edwin Jabbari (e.jabbari@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.

About you

The post would be particularly suited to someone with a background in biochemistry, protein chemistry, molecular biology or a related discipline, and a PhD in a relevant subject area. Experience in the development and use of tau seed amplification assays (tau SAA), including tau substrate expression and purification, would be desirable.

You will be comfortable working on your own initiative and taking a self-directed approach, with excellent organisational skills and the ability to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary research team while maintaining independent thinking. A proactive approach to problem-solving and troubleshooting will be essential as this ambitious project progresses.

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 £40,603 - £43,749 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 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 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. We are committed to equality of opportunity, to being fair and inclusive, and to being a place where we all belong.

We particularly encourage applications from candidates underrepresented in UCL’s workforce, including those from Black, Asian and ethnic minority backgrounds, disabled people, and – for Grade 9 and 10 roles – women.

Read more: UCL Equality, Diversity and Inclusion.

Applicants should also familiarise themselves with UCL’s policies on: Prevention of Bullying, Harassment and Sexual Misconduct Policy and Personal Relationships Policy.

Our department holds an Athena Swan Gold award in recognition of our commitment and demonstrable impact in advancing gender equality.