Research Fellow – Molecular Mechanisms of ALS(UK Visa Sponsorship available)

Job Description

About Us

The Department of Neuromuscular Diseases at UCL is a leading centre for clinical and research excellence focused on understanding the biology of spinal cord and neuromuscular conditions. Our goal is to uncover disease mechanisms and translate them into effective treatments for neurological disorders.

Within the department, the Fratta/Keuss Laboratory conducts cutting-edge research on motor neuron diseases, particularly amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The lab combines advanced cellular models—including iPSC-derived neurons, mouse models, and human tissue—to study RNA processing defects and develop new therapeutic strategies.

About the Role

We are seeking a Research Fellow to join the Fratta/Keuss Lab to investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying ALS, with a focus on TDP-43 dysfunction—a key pathological hallmark of the disease.

You will apply a multidisciplinary approach, integrating molecular biology, cell biology, and transcriptomics, to uncover how TDP-43 misvocalization affects RNA splicing and contributes to disease progression.

This role offers the opportunity to work as part of an international collaborative effort alongside:

Dr Ariana Gatt (UCL)

Dr Jack Humphrey (Icahn School of Medicine, Mount Sinai, USA)

You will work with iPSC-derived neurons and established cell lines to test and optimize experimental platforms with direct translational potential.

Key Responsibilities

Design and conduct experiments using iPSC-derived neurons, CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing, and RNA sequencing

Prepare libraries for bulk and/or single-cell RNA-seq and other transcriptomic platforms

Analyze data in collaboration with bioinformatics experts

Maintain detailed records and contribute to publications and presentations

Collaborate within a multidisciplinary and international research environment

About You

Essential Qualifications & Experience:

PhD (or near completion) in Molecular Biology, Neuroscience, or a related field

Expertise in RNA sequencing, library preparation, and transcriptomic technologies

Hands-on experience with CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing

Proficiency in iPSC culture and neuronal differentiation protocols

Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills

Ability to work independently and collaboratively

Desirable:

Experience analysing RNA-seq or other high-throughput data (wet or dry lab)

Background in neurodegenerative disease research, particularly ALS

Familiarity with bioinformatics tools or pipelines is a plus

If you have submitted your PhD thesis but have not yet been awarded the degree, you may be initially appointed as a Research Assistant (Grade 6, £39,148–£41,833), with progression to Research Fellow upon confirmation of your PhD.

What We Offer

UCL offers a vibrant research environment and an excellent range of staff benefits:

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

Pension scheme: Defined benefit CARE scheme

Cycle to work and season ticket loans

On-site nursery and gym

Enhanced parental leave (maternity, paternity, adoption)

Employee Assistance Programme and discounted medical insurance

We also support part-time, flexible, and job-share working arrangements where possible.

How to Apply

To apply, please submit:

Your CV

A cover letter or supporting statement outlining how you meet the essential and desirable criteria

Please do not upload additional attachments, as these will not be reviewed by the panel.

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion

UCL is committed to creating a fair, inclusive, and supportive working environment for all. We actively encourage applications from groups that are underrepresented in academia, including:

Black, Asian and ethnic minority candidates

Disabled individuals

LGBTQI+ and gender-diverse applicants

Women (especially in senior roles)

Our department holds an Athena SWAN Silver Award for our commitment to gender equality.