Postdoctoral Research Fellow(UK Visa Sponsorship)
Job Description
About the Research Environment
This position is based at the UCL Ear Institute within the School of Life & Medical Sciences at University College London.
The role sits within a Wellcome-funded programme led by Professor Jennifer Bizley, investigating a fundamental neuroscientific question:
How does the brain transform sound into a spatial map of the world?
The research focuses on understanding how auditory space is constructed by mapping neural activity in freely moving animals as they navigate complex sound environments.
The Ear Institute hosts approximately 75 researchers working in a purpose-built, multidisciplinary setting dedicated to hearing science and deafness research. It works in partnership with the Royal National Throat, Nose and Ear Hospital and contributes to a Biomedical Research Centre supported by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR).
The Bizley Lab operates across three London sites, including UCL central campus and the Royal Veterinary College in Camden, fostering collaboration between neuroscientists, engineers, and clinicians.
The Opportunity
We are seeking a Postdoctoral Research Fellow who will take scientific and organisational leadership within a small research team.
Your Core Mission
You will help define how animals use active sensing strategies to localise and track sounds during navigation. This includes:
- Designing and conducting experiments in animal models
- Working with chronically implanted Neuropixels probes
- Developing and implementing eye-tracking methods
- Analysing electrophysiological and behavioural datasets
- Preparing high-quality publications
- Presenting findings at international conferences
The role requires close collaboration with colleagues across neuroscience, engineering, and behavioural science.
What We Are Looking For
You will hold a PhD in neuroscience, hearing sciences, engineering, or a closely related discipline (or be near completion).
Essential experience includes:
- Experimental work using animal models
- Strong coding skills in Python and/or MATLAB
- Analysis of electrophysiology and/or video datasets
- Excellent communication and teamwork abilities
Desirable attributes:
- Background in auditory neuroscience
- Experience working with ferrets or similar models
- Leadership or supervisory experience
If a PhD has not yet been formally awarded, initial appointment will be at Grade 6B with salary adjusted upon thesis submission.
Visa & Right to Work Information
This role is eligible for sponsorship under UK immigration routes.
International applicants are encouraged to review official guidance:
- Skilled Worker visa
- Global Talent visa
- UK Visas and Immigration
- Proving your right to work in the UK
- Immigration Health Surcharge
Applicants requiring visa sponsorship are welcome.
Working at UCL
University College London offers a competitive and supportive employment package, including:
- 41 days annual leave (including bank holidays and closure days)
- Option to purchase additional leave
- Defined Benefit CARE pension scheme
- Cycle to Work scheme and season ticket loans
- Immigration loan support
- On-site nursery and gym facilities
- Enhanced family leave policies
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Discounted medical insurance
Equality, Diversity & Inclusion
UCL is committed to building a diverse and inclusive academic community. Applications are particularly encouraged from individuals underrepresented in higher education, including:
- Black, Asian and minority ethnic candidates
- Disabled applicants
- LGBTQI+ individuals
- Women (for senior grades)
The department holds an Athena SWAN Silver Award in recognition of its sustained commitment to advancing gender equality.
For further information on equality legislation and employment rights in the UK.
Key Dates & Informal Enquiries
Interviews are expected during the week commencing 16 March 2026.
The successful candidate is anticipated to start in April 2026 or shortly thereafter.
Informal academic enquiries can be directed to the Principal Investigator.
