Group Leader Research Fellowship Sponsorship Scheme at UCL(UK Visa Sponsorship)

Job Description

About UCL and SMB

UCL is one of the world’s leading research universities, known for tackling complex global challenges through interdisciplinary science, innovation, and collaboration.

The Research Department of Structural and Molecular Biology (SMB) is an internationally recognised centre of excellence. Our research spans the interface of structural, computational, chemical, and systems biology, with a strong focus on integrating data and methods across biological scales.

Current research strengths include:

• Gene expression and RNA biology
• Protein folding, membranes, and intracellular trafficking
• Microbiology and synthetic biology
• Metabolism, cancer, and biological chemistry
• Evolution, computational biology, artificial intelligence, and deep learning

SMB offers a dynamic, collaborative environment where early career researchers can develop bold ideas and build sustainable, independent research programmes.

The Fellowship Sponsorship Scheme

We invite Expressions of Interest from outstanding early career researchers seeking departmental sponsorship for prestigious external research fellowships. This scheme is designed to support the establishment of an independent research group at SMB, following a tenure‑track‑like pathway.

Examples of fellowships supported include (but are not limited to):

• Wellcome Trust Career Development Award
• MRC Career Development Award
• Cancer Research UK Career Development Fellowship
• ERC Starting Grant
• Royal Society University Research Fellowship
• Royal Society Dorothy Hodgkin Fellowship
• EPSRC Open Fellowship
• SMB runs two selection rounds per year. For this round, applications close at 23:59 (GMT) on Monday 16 March 2026.
• Research Areas of Interest

We welcome proposals aligned with Structural and Molecular Biology, with particular interest in:

• Engineering Biology
• Microbiology
• Computational methods and machine learning in structural biology
• Applicants are encouraged to propose original, ambitious research questions that complement or expand the department’s existing portfolio.

What the Scheme Offers

Researchers selected for sponsorship will receive substantial support before, during, and after fellowship application, including:

• Strategic guidance on fellowship choice and positioning
• Mentoring from experienced group leaders
• Internal review of applications and mock interviews

Researchers who successfully secure external funding will be:

• Embedded within a supportive, closely connected academic community
• Provided with laboratory and office space
• Given access to state‑of‑the‑art facilities, platforms, and technical expertise
• Supported in recruiting PhD students from UCL’s four‑year doctoral programmes
• Offered bespoke leadership development and continued professional training
• SMB has a strong track record of supporting fellows into permanent academic positions, either within the department or elsewhere.

Who We’re Looking For

You will be an ambitious early career researcher ready to take the next step towards independence. You will demonstrate:

• An excellent research track record appropriate to career stage
• Clear potential to secure competitive external fellowship funding
• A compelling, well‑defined research vision suitable for independent group leadership
• Strong communication skills and a collaborative approach to research

Selection Process

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to:

• Deliver a research seminar
• Attend an interview with the SMB Fellowship Panel
• Interviews will be held online on Friday 24 April 2026.

Successful candidates will then be invited to visit the department to meet staff, students, and current fellows, and to hold informal discussions with prospective collaborators.

How to Apply

Please submit the following documents:

• A short CV, including the names of referees
• A two‑page research vision or draft fellowship proposal

A cover letter outlining:

• The fellowship scheme(s) you intend to apply for
• Your proposed application timeline
• How your research programme aligns with and adds value to SMB

Eligibility for specific fellowship schemes must be confirmed by applicants. Evidence of eligibility to work in the UK will be required prior to taking up any fellowship awarded.

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion

As London’s Global University, UCL is committed to creating an inclusive research culture where diversity is recognised as a strength. SMB particularly welcomes applications from individuals who are underrepresented in the academic workforce, including candidates from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds, disabled people, LGBTQI+ individuals, and women.

The department holds an Athena SWAN Silver Award, reflecting its sustained commitment to gender equality and inclusive career progression.

Useful External Guidance (UK Government & Public Bodies)

• Skilled Worker visa
• Global Talent visa
• UK Research and Innovation – good research practice
• Research Excellence Framework (REF)
• Equality Act 2010 guidance

Employer: University College London
Department: School of Life & Medical Sciences – Structural & Molecular