Research Fellow / Senior Research Fellow in Medicinal Chemistry(UK sponsorship available)

Job Description

The Role

We are seeking a Research Fellow (Grade 7) or Senior Research Fellow (Grade 8) to join our Medicinal Chemistry team, reporting to Professor Matt Cheeseman.

You will contribute to the discovery and development of small-molecule drug candidates and chemical biology tools. The role involves leading the design, synthesis, and optimisation of compounds for target validation and progression through the early stages of drug discovery.

You will work collaboratively with internal multidisciplinary teams (chemistry, biology, screening) and external partners (including CROs) to progress a portfolio of drug discovery projects.

Key Responsibilities

Design and synthesise small-molecule compounds for therapeutic use in neurodegenerative diseases

Apply structure-based and ligand-based drug design strategies

Lead or support drug discovery projects from hit identification to lead optimisation

Collaborate with internal and external partners to ensure scientific progress

Present data at internal meetings and scientific conferences

Supervise junior researchers (Grade 8 only)

Contribute to publications and reporting to funders

About You

Essential for Grade 7 (Research Fellow):

PhD in Chemistry, Cheminformatics, or equivalent research experience

Strong knowledge of medicinal chemistry and drug discovery principles

Proficiency in computational chemistry and molecular modelling tools

Experience in small-molecule design, synthesis, and characterisation

Excellent communication, collaboration, and time-management skills

Additional Requirements for Grade 8 (Senior Research Fellow):

Substantial postdoctoral or industrial experience

Proven track record of project leadership in drug discovery

Experience in line management and mentoring

Strong academic record, including high-impact publications or patents

What We Offer

Grade 7 Salary: £45,103 – £52,586 per annum (incl. London Allowance)

Grade 8 Salary: £54,931 – £64,644 per annum (incl. London Allowance)

Generous annual leave: 41 days (including public holidays and UCL closure days)

Excellent pension scheme (CARE)

Flexible working and job share options

Cycle to work scheme, season ticket loan, and discounted medical insurance

On-site nursery and gym

Employee Assistance Programme and staff support services

How to Apply

To apply, please submit:

A CV

A supporting statement (or cover letter) outlining how you meet the essential and desirable criteria
(Please do not upload additional documents as these will not be reviewed.)

For questions about the role, contact Professor Matt Cheeseman at: m.cheeseman@ucl.ac.uk

For application support or accessibility requests, contact the HR team at: ion.hradmin@ucl.ac.uk

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion

UCL is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive community. We particularly encourage applications from candidates underrepresented in academia, including:

Black, Asian, and minority ethnic groups

Women (especially in senior academic roles)

LGBTQI+ and gender-diverse individuals

Disabled applicants

The Institute of Neurology holds an Athena SWAN Silver Award for its commitment to gender equality and actively supports staff engagement in EDI initiatives.