Job Description
About the Department
The Department of Neuromuscular Diseases is internationally recognised for its work in diagnosing, understanding, and treating a wide spectrum of neuromuscular and spinal conditions. Its multidisciplinary teams combine clinical expertise with advanced genetic and laboratory research to uncover disease mechanisms and develop innovative therapies.
Within the department, the Neurogenetics Research Group—led by Professor Henry Houlden—focuses on complex neurological disorders such as ataxias, multiple system atrophy, hereditary spastic paraplegia, and Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease. The group is at the forefront of integrating genomics into clinical practice.
Role Overview
This position offers a unique opportunity to combine clinical practice with cutting-edge genomic research. The successful candidate will lead a research project aimed at identifying genetic causes of inherited neuromuscular disorders using a large and diverse patient cohort.
Alongside research responsibilities, the role includes clinical engagement through patient assessments, multidisciplinary meetings, and participation in specialist clinics. You will contribute to the evaluation of complex cases, particularly those without confirmed genetic diagnoses, and play a role in advancing precision medicine approaches.
There is also the potential to register for a PhD, allowing the research undertaken in this role to contribute to a higher academic qualification and support long-term career development in clinical academia.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct genomic research to identify causes of rare neuromuscular diseases
Analyse and interpret complex genetic data in clinical and research settings
Participate in specialist clinics, including patient assessment and consent for research
Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams in clinical and academic environments
Contribute to ongoing studies, including natural history and therapeutic research
Present findings at meetings and contribute to academic publications
Candidate Profile
Applicants should demonstrate:
- Registration as a medical practitioner with a licence to practise in the UK (GMC)
Clinical experience in neurology or related specialties
Strong understanding of genetic and genomic principles in inherited diseases
Knowledge of research governance, including Good Clinical Practice (GCP) and data protection standards
Experience conducting supervised research and contributing to scientific outputs
Ability to work collaboratively in clinical and research teams
Desirable attributes include:
- Experience within the NHS environment
Familiarity with ACMG guidelines for genetic variant interpretation
Knowledge of advanced genomic techniques (e.g. long-read sequencing, RNA analysis)
Experience in clinical audit and research methodology
Training and Development
- Opportunity to enrol in a PhD programme
Access to expert supervision and mentorship
Exposure to high-impact research projects and publications
Support for career progression within academic medicine
Visa and Immigration Information
This role is open to international applicants and may be eligible for sponsorship.Â
Benefits
The position offers a comprehensive benefits package, including:
- Generous annual leave entitlement
Access to a defined benefit pension scheme
Flexible and part-time working opportunities
Professional development and training support
Employee wellbeing services
Access to institutional facilities and resources
Equality, Diversity & Inclusion
The organisation is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. Applications are encouraged from individuals of all backgrounds, especially those currently underrepresented in academic medicine and research.
Additional Information
An honorary clinical contract will be arranged with an NHS Trust, subject to necessary checks. Applicants are encouraged to clearly demonstrate how their experience meets the role criteria within their application.