Job Description

Ref Number

B02-09813

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

17-Dec-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 Busche Laboratory, based in the UK DRI at UCL, is a highly interactive environment, with strong collaborations across the UK DRI as well as with researchers at UCL and other renowned institutions.

About the role

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We are seeking an exceptional individual to join on a cutting-edge 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-scale neural circuit impairments in mouse models. The project will combine spatial omics methods with advanced techniques to record neuronal activity across large populations of cells, such as in vivo two-photon calcium imaging. A variety of experimental and analytical approaches will be applied to interrogate the mechanisms of dysfunction.



This is an outstanding opportunity to work independently on a high impact, state-of-the-art project in a stimulating, vibrant research environment.



The role is available from 01 February 2026 and funded by the UK Dementia Research Institute until 31 January 2028 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. 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 neuroscience, engineering, computer science, mathematics, physics, or a related field, and prior practical experience with spatial transcriptomics and related data processing/analysis. Expertise in modern molecular biology techniques such as AAV design and validation, immunostaining and confocal microscopy, single-cell RNA sequencing, quantitative in situ hybridization, and related bioinformatic skills, experience in rodent stereotactic surgery are 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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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 39,807 - 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 Relocation scheme for certain posts 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.