Job Description

Ref Number

B02-09200

Professional Expertise

Laboratory Technical and Lab Support

Department

School of Life & Medical Sciences (B02)

Location

London

Working Pattern

Full time

Salary

35,930-41,255

Contract Type

Fixed-term

Working Type

On site

Available for Secondment

Yes

Closing Date

19-Aug-2025

About us

------------


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.

About the role

------------------


We are now recruiting a Research Technician to join the Department under the supervision of Professor Henry Houlden and Professor John Hardy.



The lab is part of several world-class genome research initiatives that provide funding for this work, including, the MRC/NIHR funded genome sequencing programme, the Ataxia UK DRPLA natural history study, the non-coding genome Wellcome Trust 5-year project, and the Centre for Neuromuscular diseases. These are important international projects working with lower- and middle-income countries on the genetic analysis of neurological disorders.



Cutting edge genetic techniques will be used such as genome/exome short-read and long-read nanopore and PacBio sequencing. You will be responsible for DNA and RNA extraction from biosamples, Sanger sequencing and other genetic techniques, culturing and maintaining a range of cell models, and analysing cell lines. You will also be trained to be responsible for initial data review of samples, processing and working with the bioinformatic team for analysis. The post will also involve working closely with academics and clinicians, writing talks, and working on publications with the team and suit a motivated, ambitious, hardworking person.



The post is available immediately and is funded until 31 July 2026 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 Professor Henry Houlden (h.houlden@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

-------------


You'll have an undergraduate degree (minimum 2:1) in Biological Sciences, a background in Sanger sequencing, fragment analysis, and molecular biology, and experience with basic laboratory techniques and of working with human samples for DNA and RNA extraction and analysis. Excellent communication, interpersonal, and organisational skills are essential, as is good time management with the ability to problem-solve and work to strict objectives.



This role does not meet the eligibility requirements for a Skilled Worker Visa certificate of sponsorship under UK Visas and Immigration legislation. Therefore UCL will not be able to sponsor individuals who require right to work in the UK to carry out this role.

What we offer

-----------------


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

-------------------------------------------------------


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.