Principal Research Fellow(UK Visa Sponsorship)

Automotive Jobs
Uk
February 12, 2026
Full Time Permanent
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Job Description

Transforming the Future of Epilepsy Research

The Research Department of Epilepsy (DoE) is driven by a clear mission: to improve the lives of people living with epilepsy by identifying, understanding, and ultimately preventing or correcting the biological mechanisms underlying the condition and its associated comorbidities.

Within this department, the Sisodiya Group takes a multimodal and translational approach to understanding complex epilepsies. The team integrates:

  • Clinical phenotyping
  • Genomics
  • Advanced neuroimaging
  • Data-driven computational approaches
  • The group also investigates the impact of climate change on neurological disorders, with a particular focus on epilepsy.

We are now seeking a Principal Research Fellow to provide scientific leadership in epilepsy genomics and computational analysis within this ambitious programme.

About the Role

This is a senior research leadership position under the supervision of Professor Sanjay Sisodiya.

You will:

  • Lead genomics research within a translational epilepsy programme
  • Direct and mentor a team of bioinformaticians and analysts
  • Provide strategic bioinformatics input across multidisciplinary projects
  • Analyse large-scale clinical and genomic datasets from deeply phenotyped epilepsy cohorts

Collaborate with national and international partners including:

  • Genomics England
  • UK Biobank
  • Epi25
  • ENIGMA-Epilepsy
  • Your work will focus not only on discovery but on clinical translation — ensuring that genomic insights move toward real-world impact for patients.
  • The post is funded by the Epilepsy Society and available from 1 April 2026, initially until 1 April 2029, with the potential for extension.
  • This role is hybrid, with a minimum of 60% on-site presence required.

About You

You will bring both technical excellence and strategic leadership.

Essential Qualifications & Experience

  • A PhD in Genetics, Bioinformatics, Biostatistics, Computer Science, or a closely related field
  • Extensive experience in computational genomics and next-generation sequencing analysis
  • Strong publication record in high-impact journals
  • Experience securing research funding
  • Demonstrated leadership of analysts or computational research staff

Technical Expertise

You should have strong proficiency in:

  • Linux/Unix environments
  • Programming and scripting (e.g., Bash, Python, R)
  • Genomic analysis pipelines
  • Handling and integrating large-scale datasets

Experience working with major repositories such as:

  • Genomics England
  • UK Biobank
  • gnomAD
  • is essential.

Personal Attributes

You will be:

  • A collaborative and supportive team leader
  • Comfortable working across clinical and computational disciplines
  • Highly analytical with a strong problem-solving mindset
  • Meticulous in data governance and research integrity
  • Committed to continuous learning and methodological innovation

What We Offer

In addition to an exciting research leadership role, UCL provides a comprehensive benefits package including:

  • 41 days annual leave (27 days leave + 8 bank holidays + 6 closure days)
  • Option to purchase additional annual leave
  • Defined benefit CARE pension scheme
  • Cycle to work scheme and season ticket loan

Immigration loan

  • On-site nursery and gym facilities
  • Enhanced maternity, paternity, and adoption pay
  • Employee Assistance Programme
  • Discounted medical insurance
  • Flexible and part-time working arrangements will be considered wherever feasible.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

  • UCL is committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment. We value diversity as a driver of creativity and innovation.
  • We particularly encourage applications from individuals who are underrepresented in higher education, including:
  • Black, Asian and minority ethnic communities

Disabled people

  • LGBTQI+ and gender diverse individuals
  • Women in senior academic grades
  • The Institute holds an Athena SWAN Silver Award in recognition of its commitment to advancing gender equality.

Visa & Immigration Information

This role meets eligibility requirements for:

  • Skilled Worker visa sponsorship
  • Global Talent visa (subject to individual eligibility)
  • UCL welcomes applications from international candidates who require visa sponsorship.

For official UK Government guidance, please refer to:

How to Apply

To apply:

  • Upload a current CV
  • Complete the online application form
  • Provide a supporting statement (or cover letter) clearly addressing the essential and desirable criteria

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

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