Research Fellow(UK Visa Sponsorship)

Job Description

About the Institute

The UK Dementia Research Institute (UK DRI) is the largest coordinated research initiative in the United Kingdom dedicated to understanding the biological mechanisms underlying dementia. The institute brings together leading scientists across disciplines to close major knowledge gaps in neurodegenerative diseases and accelerate the development of new diagnostic tools and treatments.

At the UCL centre of UK DRI, research focuses on bridging clinical observations with laboratory discoveries. Scientists collaborate across neuroscience, immunology, genetics, and molecular biology to better understand diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and other neurodegenerative disorders.

Research Group Overview

This position is based in the Hong Laboratory, a research group specialising in neuroimmune interactions involved in neurodegenerative diseases. The team studies how immune cells within and outside the brain influence neuronal health and synapse stability.

Key research areas of the laboratory include:

• Interactions between microglia and neurons in synapse regulation
• Communication between astrocytes and immune cells in the brain
• The role of peripheral immune systems in neurological disease
• Gut–brain signalling pathways in neurodegeneration
• The laboratory integrates advanced experimental techniques including:
• Single-cell and spatial transcriptomics
• Proteomics and molecular profiling
• High-resolution microscopy and live imaging
• Animal models of neurodegenerative disease
• Human tissue and induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) models

Role Overview

The successful applicant will join the Hong Lab as a Research Fellow leading a project investigating the relationship between immune cells in the gut and neurodegenerative disease progression, particularly in Parkinson’s disease.

The research focuses on understanding how gut-resident immune cells—including macrophages and T lymphocytes—contribute to synucleinopathy and influence neurological pathology through the gut–brain axis.

Building on recent findings from the laboratory, the project will involve designing innovative experiments and applying interdisciplinary techniques to better understand immune-driven mechanisms of disease.

The appointment is funded by a Wellcome Trust Discovery Award and will initially run until 31 March 2027.

Key Responsibilities

Research and Experimental Work

• Design and conduct experimental studies investigating neuroimmune interactions along the gut–brain axis.
• Utilise animal models, imaging techniques, molecular biology tools, and omics technologies.
• Analyse complex biological data and interpret experimental results.

Scientific Collaboration

• Work closely with multidisciplinary researchers across neuroscience, immunology, and molecular biology.
• Contribute to collaborative research initiatives within the UK DRI network.

Dissemination of Research

• Publish findings in peer-reviewed scientific journals.
• Present research outcomes at international conferences and seminars.
• Contribute to scientific discussions and knowledge exchange within the institute.

Mentorship and Academic Contribution

• Support the training and supervision of students and junior researchers.
• Contribute to a collaborative and supportive research environment.

Candidate Profile

Essential Requirements

• Applicants must demonstrate strong scientific training and research capability.
• PhD in Neuroscience, Neuroimmunology, Immunology, or a related biomedical discipline.
• Proven research experience in experimental design and data analysis.
• Evidence of scientific achievement through publications or conference presentations.
• Ability to work independently while contributing to collaborative research projects.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Desirable Attributes

• Experience working with neurodegenerative disease models.
• Knowledge of immune cell biology or gut–brain interactions.
• Familiarity with advanced molecular or imaging techniques.
• Applicants who have not yet been awarded a PhD may initially be appointed as Research Assistant until the thesis is formally submitted.

Salary and Benefits

UCL offers an extensive employee benefits package designed to support professional development and wellbeing.

Key benefits include:

• 41 days of annual leave including public holidays and university closure days
• Option to purchase up to 5 additional leave days
• Career Average Revalued Earnings (CARE) pension scheme
• Cycle-to-work scheme and public transport season ticket loans
• Immigration loan assistance for international staff
• On-site childcare facilities and gym access
• Enhanced maternity, paternity, and adoption leave policies
• Confidential Employee Assistance Programme
• Discounted medical insurance
• Flexible working arrangements, part-time roles, or job-sharing options may be considered where feasible.

Visa Sponsorship and Immigration Information

This role qualifies for visa sponsorship under UK immigration regulations. International applicants requiring permission to work in the United Kingdom are encouraged to apply.

Additional information about immigration and employment regulations can be found through the following official resources:

• Skilled Worker Visa
• Global Talent Visa for Researchers
• Right to Work in the UK
• UK Visas and Immigration Guidance
• Health Research Regulation in the UK

How to Apply

To apply for this role, candidates must submit:

• A current CV
• A completed online application form
• A supporting statement or cover letter explaining how they meet the criteria for the position
• Applicants should not upload additional documents beyond those requested, as they will not be considered by the selection panel.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

The institute is dedicated to fostering an inclusive research environment that respects and values diversity in all forms. Collaboration, mutual respect, and recognition of individual strengths are core values of the research community.

UCL strongly encourages applications from individuals currently underrepresented within academic research, including people from minority ethnic backgrounds, disabled individuals, LGBTQI+ communities, and women in senior academic roles.

The institute also holds an Athena SWAN Silver Award, reflecting its ongoing commitment to advancing gender equality and inclusive academic careers.