Principal Research Fellow – Genomics of Epilepsy(UK visa sponsorship available)

Job Description

About Us

The Department of Epilepsy (DoE) at UCL is dedicated to improving the lives of people with epilepsy by identifying, understanding, and addressing the underlying causes of the condition and its related comorbidities. We combine basic and clinical science to deliver world-class translational research.

The Sisodiya Group within the DoE investigates complex epilepsies using multimodal approaches, including clinical phenotyping, genomics, and imaging, and also leads pioneering work on the impact of climate change on neurological disorders.

About the Role

We are seeking a Principal Research Fellow to lead genomics research within a broad translational programme under the direction of Professor Sanjay Sisodiya.

Key responsibilities include:

Leading and managing a team of bioinformatics analysts.

Providing strategic expertise in computational genomics across multiple projects.

Analysing clinical and genomic datasets from well-characterised epilepsy cohorts.

Collaborating with national and international partners such as Genomics England, UK Biobank, Epi25, and ENIGMA-Epilepsy.

This is a fixed-term post funded by the Epilepsy Society until 31 May 2028 (with the potential for extension).

For role-related enquiries, contact Prof Sanjay Sisodiya at s.sisodiya@ucl.ac.uk
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For recruitment queries or adjustments, contact the HR team at ion.hradmin@ucl.ac.uk

About You

You will have:

A PhD in Genetics, Bioinformatics, Biostatistics, Computer Science, or a related field.

Extensive experience in computational genomics and next-generation sequencing analysis.

A strong publication record, evidence of successful grant funding, and experience in supervising or leading junior staff.

Proficiency in Linux, programming/scripting (e.g., Python, R, Bash), and genomic pipelines.

Experience working with large datasets and public repositories (e.g., gnomAD, UK Biobank, Genomics England).

You will be an effective leader and collaborator, with excellent communication and problem-solving skills, and a commitment to high research standards.

This role is eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship or a Global Talent visa.

What We Offer

41 days leave (27 days annual + 8 bank holidays + 6 closure days)

Option to purchase 5 extra days’ leave annually

CARE pension scheme (career average revalued earnings)

Cycle to work scheme and season ticket loan

Immigration support loan

On-site nursery and gym

Enhanced parental leave

Employee assistance programme

Discounted medical insurance

More: UCL Rewards & Benefits

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion

The Institute of Neurology is proud to foster an inclusive environment where all staff can thrive. We hold an Athena SWAN Silver Award and actively promote equality across all roles.

We particularly welcome applications from:

Black, Asian, and minority ethnic researchers

Disabled researchers

LGBTQI+ and gender diverse researchers

Women applying for senior roles (Grade 9 & 10)

Learn more about our EDI initiatives: UCL Equality, Diversity & Inclusion