Brain Research UK Miriam Marks Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Neurodegenerative Diseases(UK Sponsorship)

Job Description

About the Institute

The Queen Square Institute of Neurology is a leading centre for neuroscience research and clinical excellence, with a long-standing commitment to translating scientific discoveries into real-world treatments for neurological conditions. As part of UCL’s Faculty of Brain Sciences, the Institute brings together experts across multiple disciplines to address some of the most complex challenges in brain health.

This fellowship is supported by Brain Research UK through the Miriam Marks Fund, established to advance research into neurodegenerative conditions following the loss of Miriam Marks to Alzheimer’s disease. The programme continues to support innovative research aimed at improving understanding and treatment of these disorders.

Fellowship Overview

This prestigious fellowship provides an opportunity for early-career researchers to develop an independent research programme focused on the molecular and biological mechanisms driving neurodegenerative diseases. The role is primarily laboratory-based and encourages collaboration across departments and disciplines within the Institute.

Fellows will work under the guidance of an identified Principal Investigator (sponsor) and are expected to contribute to advancing knowledge in areas such as neurodegeneration, movement disorders, or neuromuscular diseases.

The position includes dedicated research funding for consumables (£20,000 per year) and supports career progression, including applications for further external funding.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and lead an original research programme in neurodegenerative disease mechanisms
  Conduct high-quality experimental and laboratory-based research
  Publish findings in peer-reviewed journals and present at academic forums
  Collaborate with multidisciplinary research teams across the Institute
  Contribute to the wider research environment and knowledge exchange activities
  For clinical applicants: undertake agreed clinical duties where appropriate

Candidate Profile

Applicants should demonstrate:

• A PhD or medical qualification in a relevant discipline
  Strong research experience in neuroscience or related fields
  A clearly defined and innovative research proposal
  Practical experience with relevant laboratory or analytical methodologies
  Evidence of academic output or publication potential
  Ability to work collaboratively and build productive research partnerships

Application Requirements

Candidates must submit:

• Full CV including publication record
  A brief statement of motivation (approx. 200 words)
  A detailed research proposal (up to 4 pages), including aims, methodology, and timeline
  Confirmation of support from a sponsoring Principal Investigator
  Relevant references

Visa and Immigration Guidance

This role is open to international applicants and may qualify for UK visa sponsorship. 

Benefits and Support

The fellowship includes access to a competitive benefits package:

• 41 days annual leave (including bank holidays and institutional closure days)
  Option to purchase additional leave
  Defined benefit pension scheme
  Travel and cycle support schemes
  Immigration loan support
  On-site childcare and fitness facilities
  Enhanced parental leave policies
  Employee wellbeing and assistance programmes
  Discounted health insurance

Flexible working arrangements, including part-time or job-share options, may be considered.

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion

The Institute is committed to building an inclusive research environment where diversity is valued and individuals are supported to succeed. Applications are welcomed from candidates of all backgrounds, particularly those who are underrepresented in academic and research roles.

Additional Information

Applicants are encouraged to engage with potential supervisors early and carefully align their research proposal with the Institute’s priorities. Interviews are expected to take place in June 2026.