Clinical Research Fellow Rare Disease Genomics, ICGNMD-2(UK Visa Sponsorship)

Job Description

Join a Leading Centre in Neuromuscular Research

The Department of Neuromuscular Diseases at UCL is internationally recognised for advancing the understanding and treatment of spinal cord and neuromuscular disorders. Our multidisciplinary team brings together clinicians, geneticists, and laboratory scientists who work collaboratively to translate discoveries from the lab into meaningful therapies for patients.

Within this department, the Neurogenetics Research Group, led by Professor Henry Houlden, focuses on complex neurological disorders including multiple system atrophy (MSA), ataxias, hereditary spastic paraplegia (HSP), Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease (CMT), channelopathies, inflammatory myopathies (including IBM), and other inherited neuro-locomotor conditions.

We are now seeking a motivated Clinical Research Fellow to contribute to an ambitious rare disease genomics programme funded by the UK Medical Research Council.

About the Role

This post offers a unique blend of clinical engagement and genomic research. The successful candidate will:

Research Responsibilities

• Lead a project investigating the genetic causes of inherited neuromuscular conditions within a large and ethnically diverse cohort.
• Analyse complex genomic data to identify novel disease mechanisms.
• Contribute to publications and high-impact outputs.
• Support additional natural history and interventional studies within the department.

Clinical Responsibilities

• Participate in specialist neuromuscular and neurogenetics clinics.
• Review patients during routine appointments and obtain informed consent for research participation.
• Conduct detailed phenotyping of patients, particularly those without a confirmed molecular diagnosis.
• Attend multidisciplinary meetings to discuss clinical-genetic correlations and case reviews.
• There is an opportunity to register for a PhD, with the potential to develop your research findings into a doctoral thesis and strengthen your pathway toward a clinical academic career.
• An honorary contract with UCLH NHS Foundation Trust will be arranged, and a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check will be required DBS guidance

Who We’re Looking For

Essential Criteria

• GMC-registered medical practitioner with a licence to practise GMC registration guidance
• Clinical experience in neurology.
• Strong understanding of inherited neurological disease genetics.
• Demonstrated research experience under supervision.

Knowledge of:

• Research methodology and governance
• Research integrity principles UKRI guidance
• Confidentiality and GDPR compliance UK GDPR overview
• Good Clinical Practice (GCP standards
• NHS clinical governance and audit frameworks NHS governance framework

Desirable Criteria

Experience applying ACMG criteria for variant interpretation.

Familiarity with long-read DNA sequencing or RNA transcriptome analysis.

Previous NHS clinical experience.

Visa Sponsorship

This role meets eligibility requirements for:

• Skilled Worker visa
• Global Talent visa
• Further information is available via UK Visas and Immigration
• International applicants are warmly encouraged to apply.

Salary & Benefits

Salary range: £51,140 – £78,670 per annum (including London Allowance)
Scale: CL, RDPS or StR (dependent on NHS contract and stage of training)

What You’ll Receive

• 41 days leave (27 annual + 8 bank holidays + 6 closure days)
• Option to purchase 5 additional days
• Defined Benefit CARE pension scheme
• Immigration loan scheme
• Season ticket loan & cycle-to-work scheme
• On-site nursery and gym facilities
• Enhanced family leave policies
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Discounted medical insurance
• Flexible and part-time arrangements will be considered where possible.

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion

As London’s Global University, UCL actively promotes inclusion and representation. We strongly encourage applications from individuals currently underrepresented in academia and clinical research, including candidates from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds, disabled applicants, LGBTQI+ individuals, and women in senior grades.

How to Apply

To apply:

• Visit UCL’s recruitment portal.
• Search using reference B02-10051.
• Upload your CV.
• Complete the online form.
• Provide a supporting statement or cover letter clearly addressing the essential and desirable criteria.
• Please do not submit additional attachments, as they will not be reviewed.

For informal discussions, contact the Centre Research Manager.
For application support or reasonable adjustments, contact the Institute of Neurology HR team.