Research Fellow in Computational Neuroscience(UK Visa Sponsorship available)

Job Description

About Us

The UK Dementia Research Institute (UK DRI) is the UK’s largest initiative dedicated to tackling the diseases that cause dementia. At the UCL centre, research spans from understanding patient symptoms to lab-based discovery and back to clinical application, focusing on improved diagnosis, biomarkers, and treatment development.

The Busche Laboratory, based within the UK DRI at UCL, offers a dynamic and collaborative research environment. The lab works closely with researchers across the UK DRI network, UCL, and leading institutions worldwide.

About the Role

We are looking for a Research Fellow to lead a pioneering research project investigating how neuronal and circuit-level dysfunctions contribute to Alzheimer’s disease, with the long-term aim of identifying ways to reverse these changes.

The focus will be on understanding how early, cell-type-specific disturbances in neurons lead to large-scale network disruptions in mouse models of Alzheimer’s disease. A key experimental approach will involve using Neuropixels probes to record from large populations of neurons simultaneously across different brain areas.

You will play a central role in:

Developing and applying computational tools and custom algorithms for large-scale neural data analysis

Using software such as Python or MATLAB to analyse, visualise, and interpret neural recordings

Collaborating with experimental neuroscientists, data scientists, and clinicians to generate meaningful biological insights

Contributing to experimental design and, where appropriate, assisting with data acquisition

Key Responsibilities

Lead the analysis of complex, high-density neural recordings from animal models

Create and implement custom algorithms and software pipelines for data processing

Visualise and interpret neural activity patterns across different brain regions and cell types

Contribute to the design of in vivo experiments and coordinate with data acquisition teams

Communicate findings in publications, presentations, and collaborative meetings

About You

Essential Qualifications & Experience:

A PhD (or equivalent research experience) in neuroscience, computer science, engineering, physics, mathematics, or a related field

Strong background in computational neuroscience, with experience in data analysis and software development

Proficiency in coding using Python, MATLAB, or similar languages

A track record of working with large-scale neuroscience datasets

Hands-on experience with rodent stereotactic surgery and in vivo electrophysiology

Excellent problem-solving, collaboration, and communication skills

Desirable:

Experience with Neuropixels or similar high-channel electrophysiology technologies

Background in Alzheimer’s or neurodegenerative disease research

Familiarity with machine learning, dimensionality reduction, or statistical modelling techniques in neuroscience

What We Offer

This is an exciting opportunity to be part of a leading research programme with significant translational impact in the field of dementia. UCL provides a supportive and rewarding environment, with a comprehensive benefits package including:

41 days’ holiday (27 days annual leave, 8 public holidays, 6 closure days)

Additional 5 days’ annual leave purchase scheme

Defined benefit pension scheme (CARE)

Season ticket loan and cycle to work scheme

Immigration loan support

On-site nursery and gym

Enhanced maternity, paternity, and adoption pay

Employee Assistance Programme

Access to discounted private healthcare

How to Apply

To apply, you’ll need to:

Submit a CV

Complete the online application form

Upload a cover letter or supporting statement outlining how you meet the essential and desirable criteria

Please do not upload additional documents, as these will not be reviewed.

Equity, Diversity and Inclusion

UCL and the UK DRI are committed to creating an inclusive and equitable workplace. We especially encourage applications from candidates who are underrepresented in our workforce, including:

Black, Asian, and ethnic minority communities

Disabled individuals

LGBTQI+ and gender-diverse people

Women (particularly for senior roles)

The Institute holds an Athena SWAN Silver Award in recognition of its commitment to gender equality. 12% of staff actively contribute to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) initiatives.