Job Description

Ref Number

B02-09810

Professional Expertise

Laboratory Technical and Lab Support

Department

School of Life & Medical Sciences (B02)

Location

London

Working Pattern

Full time

Salary

36,433-41,833

Contract Type

Fixed-term

Working Type

On site

Available for Secondment

Yes

Closing Date

16-Dec-2025

About us

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The Department of Neurodegenerative Disease is focused on the study of neurodegenerative diseases causing dementia and related disorders. The Department has a strong focus on mechanistic dissection of genetic, molecular cellular and neuropathological processes which underlie neurodegeneration in particular diseases and across the neurodegeneration spectrum. A related touchstone of our research is to identify pathophysiological mechanisms and markers that link molecular pathology to clinical phenotypes of neurodegenerative disease.



Based within the Department, Professor Helene Plun-Favreau's laboratory works more specifically on cellular organelle impairments associated with Parkinson's disease and other neurodegenerative diseases. The lab uses a multi-disciplinary approach that includes human stem cell models, genome engineering, biochemistry techniques, and high-content confocal imaging to unravel disease pathomechanisms and novel opportunities for therapeutic intervention.

About the role

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The Plun-Favreau Lab has previously identified two new genes (KAT8 and KANSL1) playing a role in Parkinson's disease pathogenesis. In this project we will begin translating these exciting findings into a novel therapeutic approach through cutting-edge AAV-based gene therapy strategies in collaboration with the Lignani Lab.



You will join a team that takes advantage of state-of the art models and tools alongside cell biology, biochemistry, and imaging approaches to develop and test a novel gene-therapy strategy. You will work closely with Dr Benjamin O'Callaghan in the Plun-Favreau Lab, and with other team members. Core duties will include plasmid cloning, AAV production, cell biology, immunofluorescence, biochemistry, and iPSC-technology, supporting the preparation of presentations, reports, and publications, and assistance with laboratory upkeep.



The post is available from 05 January 2026 and is funded by the Sigrid Rausing Trust as part of a UCL Neurogenetic Therapies Programme award 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 Professor Helene Plun-Favreau (h.plun-favreau@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 have a BSc in Neuroscience, Developmental Biology, Molecular Biology, or a related discipline, coupled with experience in molecular cloning, AAV particle generation, purification, and quality control, with biochemistry ad molecular biology techniques, and with human cell culture and transfections. Knowledge of hiPSCs and their use in neurological disease modelling is essential, as are strong IT, communication, and collaboration skills.



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

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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.