Group Leader Research Fellowship UK Sponsorship Scheme – UCL
Job Description
About Us
The Research Department of Structural and Molecular Biology (SMB) at UCL is a world-leading academic center driving innovative, multi-disciplinary research at the intersection of structural, computational, and chemical biology. Our work spans a wide range of fields including:
Gene expression and RNA biology
Protein folding, membranes, and trafficking
Microbiology and synthetic biology
Metabolism, cancer, and biological chemistry
Evolution, computational biology, AI, and deep learning
More about our research: SMB Research
About the Role
We are seeking early-career researchers interested in pursuing external fellowships that support the establishment of independent research groups at SMB. This scheme provides a tenure-track style pathway, with sponsorship available for prestigious fellowships such as:
Welcome Trust Career Development Award
MRC Career Development Award
CRUK Career Development Fellowship
ERC Starting Grant
Royal Society URF / Dorothy Hodgkin Fellowship
EPSRC Open Fellowship
Other similar awards
Research areas of particular interest include Engineering Biology, Integrative Biology (Omics & Computational Biology), and Microbiology.
Selected candidates will present a research seminar and interview with our Fellowship Panel on 11 November 2025 (online). Shortlisted applicants will also be invited to visit SMB, meet staff and students, and discuss potential collaborations.
About You
Strong research track record for career stage
Clear potential to secure competitive fellowship funding
Eligibility to apply for external fellowship schemes
Evidence of eligibility to work in the UK before commencing
Application Process
To apply, submit:
Short CV with referee contacts
Two-page research vision/draft fellowship proposal
Cover letter outlining suitability for the fellowship scheme(s), application timeline, and fit with SMB’s research portfolio
More information: SMB Fellowship Application Process
What We Offer
Guidance and support in preparing fellowship applications, including mock interviews
Access to lab and office space, cutting-edge facilities, and expertise
Opportunities to supervise PhD students across multiple programmes
Bespoke mentoring and professional development support
Strong career progression, with many past fellows moving into permanent positions within SMB
Commitment to Equality, Diversity & Inclusion
UCL values diversity and inclusion as central to innovation. We encourage applications from groups underrepresented in academia, including Black, Asian, and minority ethnic researchers, disabled people, LGBTQI+ individuals, and women (particularly at senior levels). SMB holds an Athena SWAN Silver award for advancing gender equality.
