Job Description

Ref Number

B02-08769

Professional Expertise

Research and Research Support

Department

School of Life & Medical Sciences (B02)

Location

London

Working Pattern

Full time

Salary

43,374 51,860

Contract Type

Fixed-term

Working Type

On site

Available for Secondment

No

Closing Date

12-Jun-2025

About us

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The UK Dementia Research Institute (UK DRI) is the biggest UK initiative supporting research to fill the major knowledge gap in our basic understanding of the diseases that cause dementia.



Research from UK DRI at UCL covers the journey from the patient to the laboratory and back to the patient with improved diagnosis, biomarkers and candidate therapies put to the test.



The Buche Laboratory, based in the UK DRI at UCL, focuses on uncovering how molecular, cellular, and neural circuit changes - particularly involving tau and amyloid proteins - lead to memory loss and cognitive decline in Alzheimer's disease. Using advanced techniques such as microscopy, electrophysiology, optogenetics, and molecular biology, the goal is to better understand disease mechanisms and contribute to the development of effective treatments.

About the role

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We offer an exciting opportunity to work independently on a high impact, state-of-the-art project in a cutting-edge research laboratory at the UK Dementia Research Institute at UCL. We are seeking an exceptional individual to lead a innovative research programme aimed at understanding - and ultimately reversing - neuronal and circuit dysfunction in Alzheimer's disease. The focus will be on linking early, cell-type-specific molecular alterations to large-scaleneural circuit impairments in mouse models, and on testing gene-therapeutic approaches to restore normal function.



The project will utilise advanced techniques such as in vivo two-photon calcium imaging and/or Neuropixels electrophysiology to record neuronal activity across large populations of cells. A variety of experimental and analytical approaches will be applied to interrogate the mechanisms of dysfunction and evaluate novel therapeutic interventions.



The post is available from 01 July 2025 and funded by the UK DRI until 30 April 2027 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 Marc Aurel Busche (m.busche@ucl.ac.uk).



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

About you

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You will hold a PhD in neuroscience, engineering, computer science, mathematics, physics, or a related field, and have practical experience with in vivo two-photon calcium imaging and/or Neuropixels electrophysiology. A strong background in analytical and/or statistical analysis, along with proficient programming and coding skills, is essential for the role. Excellent interpersonal, collaboration, and communication skills 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

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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.

Our commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

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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 Silver 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.