Research Fellow in Mitochondrial Medicine(UK visa sponsorship available)

Job Description

About the Role

We are seeking a Research Fellow to join Professors Spinazzola and Holt’s team, investigating the mechanism of action of candidate compounds that could be developed into treatments for mitochondrial diseases.

The project focuses on compounds that selectively remove harmful mtDNA molecules (see PMID: 34873176; 35478201; 38402076).

Key objectives include:

Assessing the effects of small molecules on neurons and cardiomyocytes, the cell types most affected in mtDNA disorders.

Defining the metabolic conditions that promote the persistence of functional mtDNAs.

Characterizing the molecular pathways from mitochondrial dysfunction to organ-level disease.

You will use targeted and omics-based approaches on patient-derived stem cell models and transgenic mouse models of mtDNA disorders. The ultimate goal is to advance these discoveries toward translational medicine and future clinical studies.

The post is available immediately and is funded until 30 April 2027.

About You

You will have:

A PhD or MD in Neuroscience, Developmental Biology, Molecular Biology, or a related discipline.

Expertise in biochemistry, molecular biology, and stem cell-derived models.

A strong research background relevant to mitochondrial biology, neurodegeneration, or metabolic disease.

This role is eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship or a Global Talent visa.

Application Requirements

Along with your online application, please submit:

A full CV

A 1-page research statement outlining how you meet the role requirements and your motivation for applying

What We Offer

Appointment as Research Fellow requires a PhD. If not yet awarded, you will be appointed as Research Assistant (£39,148 – £41,833) and upgraded upon PhD completion (backdated to submission).

Generous benefits package, including:

41 days’ holiday (27 annual + 8 bank holidays + 6 closure days)

Option to purchase 5 extra days’ leave

CARE pension scheme (career average revalued earnings)

Cycle-to-work scheme & season ticket loan

Immigration loan

On-site nursery and gym

Enhanced maternity, paternity & adoption pay

Employee Assistance Programme

Discounted medical insurance

We also support part-time, flexible, and job share arrangements where possible.

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion

The Department values teamwork, inclusivity, and recognition of individual strengths. 12% of our staff actively work on EDI initiatives, and we hold an Athena SWAN Silver Award for advancing gender equality.

At UCL, we are committed to building a diverse, fair, and inclusive community. We particularly encourage applications from:

Black, Asian, and ethnic minority candidates

Disabled candidates

LGBTQI+ and gender diverse candidates

Women applying for senior academic roles

Read more: UCL Equality, Diversity & Inclusion