Job Description

About us Biosciences is one of the world's foremost centres for research and teaching in the biological sciences and one of the largest Divisions within UCL. The Division has a diverse portfolio addressing all areas of biology, from protein interactions to cell function, organism development, genetics, population studies and the environment. Activity is underpinned by high-calibre science technology platforms and state-of-the-art equipment.
Applications are invited for a Research Technician to provide technical support for an exciting project in the Ciabatti Lab in the Department of Neuroscience, Physiology and Pharmacology (NPP) at UCL. The role includes molecular cloning, cell culture, production of viral vectors and immunohistochemistry analysis of brain sections and the post holder will be responsible for technical procedures and day-to-day lab support, including procurement and maintenance of cell cultures. This position would suit an organised, detail-oriented and collaborative individual with experience in molecular or cellular biology.
About the role The main purpose of this role is to provide technical and experimental support for a research project aimed at developing novel viral vectors for the targeting of neural circuits in mammalian brains. This will include: i) generating libraries of engineered viral vectors; ii) assessing their performance using custom-designed assays in multiple cell culture models; iii) evaluating their efficiency in vivo by analysing mouse brains injected with selected vectors.
The post holder will also apply state-of-the-art viral vector engineering strategies, produce viral vectors in cell culture system, and employ advanced microscopy approaches. They will also contribute to the day-to-day running of the lab, including ordering reagents and maintaining cell cultures. This is an open- ended contract with funding ending on 31 August 2026.
This appointment is subject to UCL Terms and Conditions of Service for Research and Professional Services Staff. Please visit UCL Conditions of Service - Research, Teaching and Professional Services for more information.
A job description and person specification can be accessed at the bottom of this page.
If you have any queries about the role, please contact Dr Ernesto Ciabatti at e.ciabatti@ucl.ac.uk.
If you need reasonable adjustments or a more accessible format to apply for this job online or have any queries about the application process, please contact the HR Administrator.
About you This role requires a motivated and adaptable individual who will play a key part in delivering a neuroscience research programme developing novel engineered viral vectors to target neural circuits in mammals. You will be expected to lead technical procedures, maintain high experimental standards, and help ensure the lab runs smoothly.
You must have an undergraduate degree in a relevant subject and prior experience in a molecular biology setting. Experience working in a cell culture room is desirable, but training will be provided. Strong organisational and communication skills, familiarity with data analysis, and a team-oriented approach are essential for success in this role.
What we offer The UCL Ways of Working supports colleagues to be successful and happy at UCL through sharing expectations around how we work - please visit https://www.ucl.ac.uk/human-resources/policies-advice/ways-working to find out more.
As well as the exciting opportunities this role presents, we also offer some 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 and expenses
• Relocation scheme for certain posts
• On-site nursery and 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.
Our commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion 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.
You can read more about our commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion here: https://www.ucl.ac.uk/equality-diversity-inclusion/
Available documents

Skills Required