Job Description

Ref Number

B02-09270

Professional Expertise

Research and Research Support

Department

School of Life & Medical Sciences (B02)

Location

London

Working Pattern

Full time

Salary

43,981-52,586

Contract Type

Fixed-term

Working Type

On site

Available for Secondment

No

Closing Date

29-Aug-2025

About us

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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

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Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a rapidly progressive, incurable, and fatal neurodegenerative disease that causes the degeneration of motor neurons, leading to generalised paralysis. Due to the current lack of effective therapies, there is an urgent need to uncover the underlying molecular mechanisms driving ALS.



One key pathological feature of ALS is the mislocalisation of the RNA-binding protein TDP-43 from the nucleus to cytoplasmic inclusions, resulting in a severe and specific disruption of RNA processing. The Fratta/Keuss Laboratory has been investigating the consequences of this dysfunction to better understand its role in disease progression.



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 (ion.hradmin@ucl.ac.uk).



Informal enquiries regarding the role can be addressed to Dr Matthew Keuss (m.keuss@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

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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

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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, 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.