Research Career Development Fellowships(UK Visa Sponsorship)

Job Description

About UCL and CDB

The Department of Cell and Developmental Biology (CDB) at University College London (UCL) invites Expressions of Interest from outstanding early career researchers seeking support for external fellowship applications. Successful candidates will have the opportunity to establish an independent research group and progress via a tenure-track pathway.

UCL is ranked 9th globally for Biological Sciences (QS World University Rankings 2026) and provides an interactive, collaborative, and resource-rich environment. CDB’s research spans animal development, stem cell biology, neuroscience, organelle biology, cell signalling, and functional morphology. The department maintains strong collaborations with world-leading institutions, including the Francis Crick InstituteAccess to advanced research infrastructure is provided through UCL’s Science & Technology Platforms

Role Overview

We are seeking exceptional candidates to pursue research in Cell or Developmental Biology and allied fields. Research proposals that align with synthetic developmental biology or the application of machine learning approaches in biology are particularly encouraged, especially where they synergize with the Centre for Engineering Life

Key responsibilities include

• Developing a compelling research proposal for external fellowship applications (e.g., Wellcome Trust, UKRI Future Leaders Fellowship, MRC, CRUK, ERC, Royal Society).
• Conducting innovative research with the potential to establish an independent group.
• Teaching cell biology, developmental biology, and anatomy where applicable.
• Participating in departmental seminars and collaborative research discussions.

Selected candidates will receive mentorship and application support, including mock interviews and guidance on fellowship strategy. Fellows who successfully secure funding will receive post-award support, access to PhD student supervision opportunities, and long-term departmental integration.

Eligibility & Candidate Profile

Candidates should demonstrate:

• Exceptional research track record relative to career stage.
• Strong potential to secure competitive external fellowships.
• Ability to conduct innovative research with significant impact.
• Commitment to academic and departmental collaboration.
• This role meets eligibility for UK Skilled Worker or Global Talent visas, allowing applications from international candidates.

Application Process

• Full CV with referees
• One-page outline of the fellowship proposal (including title)
• Cover letter detailing:
• Suitability for the fellowship scheme
• Timeline for applications
• Integration with CDB research
• Shortlisted candidates will present a departmental seminar and meet faculty, either in-person or virtually.

Benefits and Support

• Dedicated mentorship and departmental support for fellowship success
• Integration into UCL’s Biosciences Fellowship Network
• Access to additional research funding and PhD students
• Fellowship holders may be assessed for permanent positions one year before fellowship end

External fellowships eligible for sponsorship include: Wellcome Trust Career Development Award, UKRI Future Leaders Fellowship, MRC Career Development Award, CRUK Career Development Fellowship, ERC Starting Grant, Royal Society URF, Royal Society Dorothy Hodgkin, EPSRC Open Fellowship.

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion

UCL is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment:

• Encourages applications from Black, Asian, and minority ethnic candidates, disabled candidates, LGBTQI+ individuals, and women in senior research roles
• Holds an Athena SWAN Silver Award recognizing commitment to gender equality