Research Career Development Fellowships LMCB UCL(UK Sponsorship)

Job Description

About the Department

The Laboratory for Molecular Cell Biology (LMCB) at University College London is an internationally respected research centre dedicated to advancing fundamental knowledge in molecular and cellular biology. Located at UCL’s Bloomsbury campus in central London, the department brings together scientists from diverse disciplines who investigate how cells function, adapt, and interact within complex biological systems.

Researchers within LMCB explore critical biological processes using cutting-edge technologies and interdisciplinary approaches. Current research areas include:

• Cellular signalling and decision-making processes
• Tissue organisation, homeostasis, and regeneration
• Cell-matrix interactions
• RNA biology and therapeutic applications
• Biophysical and computational approaches to living systems

Through collaborative research, advanced imaging technologies, and innovative model systems, the department aims to generate insights that contribute to understanding development, physiology, and disease.

About the Fellowship Opportunity

The Laboratory for Molecular Cell Biology invites Expressions of Interest from outstanding Early Career Researchers seeking sponsorship for major international fellowships. The programme is designed to support researchers who wish to establish independent research groups through a tenure-track pathway at UCL.

Selected candidates will receive mentorship and institutional backing to apply for competitive external funding schemes. Successful fellowship holders will join LMCB as independent investigators and will have access to extensive academic support, research infrastructure, and collaborative networks.

The initiative aims to help talented researchers build long-term academic careers while contributing innovative scientific research within the department.

Research Focus

Applicants may propose research projects addressing fundamental biological questions related to health and disease. The department welcomes proposals in a broad range of areas within molecular, cell, and developmental biology.

Particular interest is given to projects aligned with the department’s research strengths, including:

• Biology of cell-matrix interactions
• RNA biology and RNA-based therapeutics
• Physics of living systems and quantitative biology
• Cellular organisation and tissue dynamics

Candidates whose research complements existing LMCB teams and enhances collaborative research opportunities are especially encouraged to apply.

Eligibility and Candidate Profile

Applicants should demonstrate strong academic achievement and a clear potential to become independent research leaders.

Essential Requirements

• A PhD or equivalent research experience in molecular biology, cell biology, developmental biology, or a related discipline.
• Evidence of an outstanding research track record appropriate to career stage.
• A well-developed research proposal suitable for submission to a major fellowship scheme.
• Ability to collaborate with multidisciplinary research teams.

Desirable Skills

• Experience using innovative technologies or interdisciplinary research approaches.
• Interest in teaching molecular or cellular biology at undergraduate or postgraduate levels.
• Research plans that complement the existing scientific strengths of the LMCB.

Shortlisted applicants will be invited to deliver a research seminar and participate in meetings with faculty members as part of the evaluation process.

Fellowship Schemes Supported

The department can sponsor applications to several prestigious international research fellowships, including:

• Wellcome Career Development Award
• UKRI Future Leaders Fellowship
• Medical Research Council Career Development Award
• Cancer Research UK Career Development Fellowship
• European Research Council (ERC) Starting Grant
• Royal Society University Research Fellowship
• Royal Society Dorothy Hodgkin Fellowship
• EPSRC Open Fellowship

These fellowships provide substantial funding to establish independent research programmes.

Mentorship and Career Development

Researchers supported through this initiative benefit from extensive professional development opportunities, including:

• Personal mentorship from senior faculty members
• Access to the Biosciences Fellowship Network
• Grant-writing support and proposal development guidance
• Mock interviews and fellowship preparation sessions
• Opportunities to recruit PhD students through UCL doctoral training programmes
• Additional funding support and research infrastructure

Fellows who secure external funding will receive full academic status within the department and will be evaluated for a permanent academic position approximately one year before their fellowship concludes.

Application Process

Candidates should submit a single PDF document containing:

• A detailed curriculum vitae including contact details of referees
• A one-page research proposal outline, including the proposed project title

A cover letter describing:

• the fellowship scheme(s) of interest
• a proposed application timeline
• how the research programme aligns with LMCB’s scientific priorities

Visa and Immigration Information

International researchers are welcome to apply. If successful, candidates may be eligible for UK immigration routes that support academic researchers.

Official guidance on UK visas and immigration pathways can be found through the following government resources:

• Skilled Worker Visa
• Global Talent Visa for Researchers
• UK Research and Academic Careers Guidance
• Proving the Right to Work in the UK
• UK Visas and Immigration Overview

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

University College London is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive academic community. The institution believes that a wide range of perspectives and backgrounds strengthens research, innovation, and teaching.

Applications are particularly encouraged from individuals who are currently underrepresented within the academic workforce.

The Division of Biosciences holds an Athena SWAN Silver Award, while the Laboratory for Molecular Cell Biology has received multiple Athena SWAN Gold Awards, recognising its leadership in promoting gender equality and inclusive research environments.