Research Fellow

The Lysosomal Storage Disorders Unit at the UCL Cancer Institute is a leading translational research group investigating inherited metabolic rare diseases, including Gaucher and Fabry disease, and their links to neurodegeneration and inflammation. The team combines patient-derived cellular models, advanced multi-omics technologies, high-content imaging, and proteomics to uncover disease mechanisms, identify biomarkers, and develop new therapeutic approaches. Working within a collaborative and multidisciplinary environment, the group is committed to delivering impactful research that improves the understanding and treatment of rare disorders.

As a Research Fellow, you will play a leading role in developing and characterising patient-derived disease models, including PBMC-derived macrophages and iPSC-derived dopaminergic and glutamatergic neurons. You will design and conduct complex experimental workflows, generate high-quality datasets through high-throughput confocal imaging and Olink proteomic profiling, and analyse multi-dimensional biological data to identify disease mechanisms and potential biomarkers. The role offers significant independence and the opportunity to contribute to publications, grant applications, conference presentations, and the training of junior researchers, while supporting the strategic research objectives of the group. The role is available for 1 year in the first instance with the possibility of extension.

You hold a PhD in neuroscience, cell biology, or a related discipline, with experience in human iPSC culture and neuronal differentiation, PBMC isolation, macrophage generation, and advanced cellular disease modelling. You have expertise in high-throughput confocal imaging, quantitative image analysis, and the analysis of complex biological datasets, ideally including proteomic and omics data. You are a highly organised researcher with strong problem-solving skills, a track record of scientific publications, and the ability to communicate effectively with multidisciplinary teams. You thrive in collaborative research environments, demonstrate meticulous attention to detail, and are committed to scientific excellence, reproducibility, and continuous learning.

As well as the exciting opportunities this role presents we also offer some great benefits:

• 41 Days holiday (including 27 days annual leave, 8 bank holidays, and 6 closure days)
• Defined benefit career average revalued earnings pension scheme (CARE)
• Cycle to work scheme and season ticket loan
• On-Site nursery
• On-site gym
• Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption pay
• Employee assistance programme: Staff Support Service
• Discounted medical insurance

As London’s Global University, we know diversity fosters creativity and innovation. We are committed to equality of opportunity, to being fair and inclusive, and to being a place where we all belong. We particularly encourage applications from candidates underrepresented in UCL’s workforce, including those from Black, Asian and ethnic minority backgrounds, disabled people, and – for Grade 9 and 10 roles – women.

Applicants should also familiarise themselves with UCL’s policies on: Prevention of Bullying, Harassment and Sexual Misconduct Policy and Personal Relationships Policy.