Research Fellow(UK Visa Sponsorship)
Job Description
About the Department
The Lung Cancer Prevention Laboratory, led by Dr Deborah Caswell, is part of the UCL Respiratory Department within the Division of Medicine at University College London.
UCL Respiratory offers state-of-the-art laboratory facilities, including tissue culture suites, histology labs, and advanced microscopy resources. Through collaborations with Professor Janes’ laboratory, the Lung Cancer Prevention Laboratory has access to unique datasets from two large-scale studies — SUMMIT and ASCENT — encompassing over 13,000 participants at high risk of lung cancer and 500 patients with diagnosed lung cancers.
The lab also provides access to cutting-edge preclinical models, including humanized lung cancer mouse models expressing APOBEC3 enzymes, EGFR-mutant transplantable mouse lung cancer lines, and human lung cancer cell lines. These resources are unparalleled globally, enabling research at the forefront of lung cancer biology.
Role Overview
We are seeking a motivated Research Fellow to join our team, leading a project using a humanized APOBEC3 mouse model to investigate early lung tumorigenesis in never-smoker EGFR-mutant lung cancer models.
Key Responsibilities:
- Map the expression of APOBEC3 enzymes during tumor initiation and progression.
- Investigate the effects of APOBEC3 on DNA mutational and structural damage.
- Assess changes in the immune microenvironment driven by APOBEC3 activity.
- Plan, conduct, and manage a high-quality research programme with clearly defined milestones.
- Publish high-impact research papers and contribute to scientific dissemination.
- Collaborate closely with laboratory members and external partners.
- Perform systematic reviews to inform experimental design.
This role is fully funded for three years, with additional support to pursue postdoctoral fellowship applications. Successful fellows may also be considered for contract extensions or other career development opportunities.
Candidate Profile
The ideal candidate will demonstrate:
- A PhD in a relevant biological science discipline.
- Experience designing and conducting independent research at a high level.
- Strong familiarity with animal models of lung cancer, including viral induction and genetically engineered mouse models.
- Proficiency in experimental planning, data analysis, and scientific writing.
- Excellent communication and teamwork skills for collaborative research environments.
Visa & Right to Work Information
This position is suitable for applicants requiring UK visa sponsorship. Guidance for international researchers includes:
- Skilled Worker visa
- Global Talent visa (academic and research)
- Right to work in the UK
- Immigration Health Surcharge
- UK Visas and Immigration overview
Benefits & Working Environment
UCL offers a competitive and supportive package:
- 41 days annual leave (27 days leave + 8 bank holidays + 6 closure days)
- Option to purchase up to 5 additional leave days
- Defined Benefit CARE pension scheme
- Cycle to Work scheme and season ticket loans
- Immigration and relocation support (where applicable)
- On-site nursery and gym facilities
- Enhanced maternity, paternity, and adoption pay
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Discounted medical insurance
Equality, Diversity & Inclusion
University College London is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive community. We particularly welcome applications from underrepresented groups, including:
- Black, Asian, and minority ethnic candidates
- Disabled applicants
- LGBTQI+ researchers
The department has achieved an Athena SWAN Silver Award in recognition of its commitment to advancing gender equality and promoting inclusive research environments.
For further guidance on UK equality legislation:
