Job Description
About Us
The UK Dementia Research Institute (UK DRI) is a world-leading, multidisciplinary research institute with over 900 staff dedicated to understanding and tackling the causes of neurodegenerative diseases. Our mission is to drive breakthroughs in dementia research — from discovery to diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.
The Single Cell and Spatial Omics (SCSO) Platform supports researchers within the UK DRI, the UCL Institute of Neurology, and affiliated laboratories. The platform provides advanced wet-lab and computational services, access to specialized equipment, training, experimental design support, and bioinformatics analysis using state-of-the-art single-cell and spatial omics technologies.
About the Role
We are seeking an experienced Senior Research Technician to play a key role in the Single Cell and Spatial Omics Platform. You will work closely with the Platform Manager to deliver cutting-edge technical services, collaborative research support, and training across the distributed UK DRI network.
Your responsibilities will include:
Providing hands-on support and expert advice to researchers applying single-cell and spatial transcriptomics techniques.
Assisting with experimental design, implementation, and data analysis across multiple research groups.
Managing and maintaining specialist laboratory equipment, ensuring the highest standards of data quality.
Performing bioinformatics analysis of large datasets, or providing guidance and training in these methods.
Supporting project planning and helping researchers incorporate advanced omics techniques into grant proposals.
This position offers a unique opportunity to collaborate with leading scientists investigating diverse neurodegenerative disease mechanisms and models. You will apply and optimize the latest omics technologies to accelerate discovery and improve understanding of dementia biology.
The post is available immediately and funded by the UK DRI for 18 months in the first instance, with the possibility of extension.
A full job description and person specification can be accessed below. To apply, please submit a CV and supporting statement outlining how you meet the essential and desirable criteria.
About You
You will hold a PhD in Neuroscience (or a closely related discipline) and have significant experience in spatial transcriptomics and bioinformatics analysis. You will be a collaborative, innovative, and organized scientist who enjoys supporting interdisciplinary research.
Essential skills and experience include:
Proven experience designing and implementing spatial transcriptomics workflows.
Ability to develop and manage data analysis pipelines for large-scale omics datasets.
Proficiency in Python, R, and Bash for computational biology applications.
Experience using advanced computational tools for marker gene identification and data integration.
Strong analytical, problem-solving, and troubleshooting skills.
Excellent communication, organizational, and interpersonal abilities.
This role meets the eligibility requirements for a Skilled Worker Visa or Global Talent Visa under UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) legislation
What We Offer
UCL offers an outstanding range of benefits, including:
41 days of annual leave (27 days annual 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 Loan
Immigration loan and relocation support (for eligible posts)
On-site nursery and gym facilities
Enhanced maternity, paternity, and adoption pay
Employee Assistance Programme (Staff Support Service)
Discounted private medical insurance
Flexible, part-time, and job-share arrangements will be considered wherever possible.
This role is subject to UCL’s Terms and Conditions of Service for Research and Professional Services Staff.
Our Commitment to Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion
At UCL and the Institute of Neurology, we are proud to foster an inclusive, collaborative, and supportive research culture. We recognise individual strengths, value teamwork, and actively support career development for all staff.
Approximately 12% of Institute staff are directly involved in Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) initiatives — reflecting our dedication to creating a fair and welcoming workplace.
The Institute holds an Athena SWAN Silver Award in recognition of our progress in promoting gender equality.
We particularly encourage applications from individuals underrepresented in our workforce, including:
People from Black, Asian, and minority ethnic backgrounds
Disabled candidates
LGBTQI+ and gender-diverse individuals
Women, particularly for senior (Grade 9 and 10) roles
