Research Fellow Data Scientist(UK Visa Sponsorship)
Job Description
About the Institute
The UK Dementia Research Institute is the UK’s largest initiative dedicated to tackling the major knowledge gaps in our understanding of dementia. The Institute supports cutting-edge research aimed at understanding, preventing, and treating neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD).
At UCL, the Duff Lab uses advanced proteomics and transcriptomics approaches to map molecular changes in human and mouse brain tissue. Techniques include:
- Single-cell and bulk mass spectrometry
- Phosphoproteomics
- Spatially resolved Deep Visual Proteomics
- Spatial transcriptomics platforms (MERFISH, XENIUM, Visium HD, Stereo-seq, GeoMx)
- Bulk and single-nucleus RNA sequencing
These methods allow us to study disease mechanisms in unprecedented molecular detail, with a focus on understanding disease progression and identifying potential therapeutic targets.
Role Overview
We are looking for a Research Fellow / Data Scientist to join the Duff Lab and play a central role in data-driven neuroscience research. You will work with complex multi-omic datasets to explore protein and RNA changes underlying neurodegeneration.
Key Responsibilities
- Handle, curate, and perform quality control on large multi-modal datasets
- Develop computational pipelines and workflows for high-throughput data analysis
- Apply AI and machine learning approaches, including feature selection for omics datasets
- Analyse pathway-level differences and integrate proteomic and transcriptomic results
- Collaborate with the lab and external partners to interpret results and publish findings
- Support the lab’s research mission using agentic AI tools such as Kosmos
- This role will require strong collaboration, attention to detail, and innovative thinking to push the boundaries of dementia research.
Candidate Profile
The ideal candidate will have:
- A PhD in Data Science, Bioinformatics, Computer Science, or a closely related field
- Proficiency in Python, R, and/or Bash
- Experience in machine learning and AI applied to large omics datasets
- Strong knowledge of genomics, transcriptomics, and proteomics
- Experience developing workflows for cloud and high-performance computing (e.g., Nextflow)
- Excellent statistical analysis skills and experience handling complex datasets
If the PhD is not yet awarded, the candidate may initially be appointed as a Research Assistant, with salary adjusted and appointment backdated upon thesis submission.
Visa & Right to Work Information
This role is eligible for UK visa sponsorship. Guidance for international applicants includes:
- Skilled Worker visa
- Global Talent visa for researchers
- Prove your right to work in the UK
- Immigration Health Surcharge
- UK Visas and Immigration overview
Benefits
UCL offers a supportive work environment with extensive benefits:
- 41 days holiday (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 loans
- Immigration and relocation support (where applicable)
- On-site nursery and gym facilities
- Enhanced maternity, paternity, and adoption pay
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Discounted medical insurance
- Flexible, part-time, and job-share arrangements are considered where possible.
Equality, Diversity & Inclusion
University College London is committed to building a diverse, inclusive, and supportive research environment. We particularly welcome applications from:
- Black, Asian, and minority ethnic candidates
- Disabled researchers
- LGBTQI+ and gender-diverse individuals
- Women in senior roles (Grade 9 & 10)
- The Institute holds an Athena SWAN Silver Award, recognising its impact in promoting gender equality.
Additional guidance on UK equality legislation and inclusive practices:
How to Apply
Submit a current CV, complete the online application form, and use the supporting statement section (or upload a cover letter) to outline how you meet the essential and desirable criteria. Only documents submitted as part of the official application will be considered.
