Imaging in Mitochondrial Diseases(UK Visa Sponsorship Available)

Job Description

About Us

The Centre for Neuromuscular Diseases (CNMD) at UCL is one of the leading centres in Europe for the diagnosis, management, and research of neuromuscular disorders. Providing comprehensive NHS clinical services for over 5,000 patients each year, the CNMD runs a range of specialist clinics and nationally commissioned services for children and adults.

It is recognised as a UK national centre of excellence, setting benchmarks for rare disease care and offering specialist training for clinicians and scientists.

In 2024, the LifeArc and Muscular Dystrophy UK (MDUK) funded Translational Rare Disease Centre to Treat Mitochondrial Diseases (LAC-TreatMito-UK) was established. This initiative provides a national translational platform to accelerate the development of new treatments and biomarkers for mitochondrial diseases, strengthening national diagnostic capacity and research collaboration.

About the Role

This LAC-TreatMito-UK Clinical Research Fellowship offers a unique opportunity to gain clinical and research experience in neuromuscular and mitochondrial disorders, with a specific focus on imaging applications in mitochondrial disease.

You will lead a research project investigating imaging-based approaches to assess disease severity, progression, and therapeutic response in patients with primary mitochondrial disorders (PMD).

Key Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and manage high-quality clinical research projects in mitochondrial imaging.
• Participate in patient recruitment, consent, and phenotypic data collection.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams within the NHS Highly Specialised Service (HSS) for Rare Mitochondrial Disorders.
• Attend and contribute to weekly mitochondrial MDT meetings and fortnightly genetics MDTs.
• Prepare findings for publication in peer-reviewed journals and present results at conferences.
• Option to apply for a PhD at UCL and undertake research training as part of the fellowship.

You will hold an honorary contract with UCLH NHS Foundation Trust, subject to a DBS check. The post is available immediately and is funded until 31 August 2029 in the first instance.

About You

You are a motivated and skilled clinician with a strong interest in neurology, mitochondrial medicine, and translational research.

Essential Requirements:

• Registered Medical Practitioner licensed to practise in the UK.
• Completed CMT/IMT training and MRCP (or equivalent in paediatrics).
• Clinical experience in neurology or neuromuscular medicine.
• Understanding of research methodology and evidence of prior research experience.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and organisational skills.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively within a multidisciplinary team.

Visa Sponsorship

This position meets the eligibility requirements for a UK Skilled Worker Visa or Global Talent Visa under UK Visas and Immigration legislation.
UCL welcomes applications from international candidates who require visa sponsorship.

What We Offer

UCL offers a highly supportive research and clinical training environment, along with an excellent benefits package:

• 41 days annual leave (27 days leave + 8 bank holidays + 6 closure days)
• Defined Benefit CARE Pension Scheme
• Cycle to Work scheme and season ticket loans
• Immigration loan and relocation support (where applicable)
• Enhanced maternity, paternity, and adoption pay
• On-site nursery and gym
• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) and wellbeing services
• Discounted medical insurance
• This appointment is subject to the UCL Terms and Conditions of Service for Research and Professional Services Staff
  .
  Flexible, part-time, and job-share arrangements will be considered where possible.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

The UCL Institute of Neurology is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment where all staff can thrive. Around 12% of our staff actively contribute to our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) initiatives, and the Institute holds an Athena SWAN Silver Award for advancing gender equality.

UCL particularly welcomes applications from groups underrepresented in our workforce, including people from Black, Asian, and minority ethnic backgrounds, disabled applicants, LGBTQI+ and gender-diverse individuals, and women in senior academic roles.

How to Apply

• Submit your CV and evidence of GMC registration.
• Complete the online application form.
• Include a supporting statement or cover letter addressing the essential and desirable criteria.
• Please do not upload additional attachments — they will not be considered.