At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative gene therapy research and conduct in vivo assessments in a dynamic lab environment.
- Company: Join UCL AI Centre, a leader in neurodegenerative disease research with a focus on impactful therapies.
- Benefits: Enjoy 41 days of holiday, a pension scheme, gym access, and flexible working options.
- Why this job: Be part of groundbreaking research that could change lives while working in an inclusive and supportive culture.
- Qualifications: PhD or equivalent experience in biomedical fields; skills in molecular biology and in vivo work are essential.
- Other info: Applications from diverse backgrounds are encouraged to foster creativity and innovation.
The predicted salary is between 37300 - 43800 £ per year.
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Ref Number B02-09007 Professional Expertise Laboratory Technical and Lab Support Department School of Life & Medical Sciences (B02) Location London Working Pattern Full time Salary £43,374 £51,860 Contract Type Fixed-term Working Type On site Available for Secondment No Closing Date 30-Jul-2025
About Us
The Research Department of Neurodegenerative Disease is recognized as internationally leading in the study of neurodegenerative diseases causing dementia and related disorders. The Department has a strong focus on mechanistic dissection of genetic, molecular cellular and neuropathological processes which underlie neurodegeneration in particular diseases and across the neurodegeneration spectrum.
The Isaacs Lab investigates the molecular mechanisms underlying frontotemporal dementia (FTD) and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). We are particularly interested in the C9orf72 gene (a common cause of both FTD and ALS) and the CHMP2B gene, (a rare cause of FTD), and use a multidisciplinary approach including disease modelling in mice, Drosophila, primary neurons and iPS cell-derived neurons. By combining these model systems with analysis of patient tissue we ensure the relevance of our work to the disease process we are studying. We are also working to translate our research findings into potential therapies using gene therapy and high-throughput screening approaches.
About The Role
We have developed a novel dual-guide gene therapy approach utilizing AAV9-mediated expression of CRISPR/Cas13d to suppress levels of C9orf72 sense and antisense repeat-derived transcripts (Kempthorne et al Nature Communications 2025 Jan 8;16(1):459. doi: 10.1038/s41467-024-55550-x).
You will co-lead the assessment of this gene therapy approach using adult administration in C9orf72 BAC transgenic mice; including in vivo administration e.g intrathecal injections and molecular, biochemical and pathological assessment of the treated mice. You will also work closely with a Research Fellow who co-leads the project.
In addition, you will perform ELISAs and immunoassays for C9orf72 dipeptide repeat proteins across a wide range of samples and provide lab management to support the work of the laboratory.
The post is available from 01 October 2025 and funded by LifeArc and UK DRI until 31 March 2028 in the first instance.
If you need reasonable adjustments or a more accessible format to apply for this job online, or have any queries regarding the application process, please contact the Institute of Neurology HR Team (ion.hradmin@ucl.ac.uk).
Informal enquiries regarding the role can be addressed to Professor Adrian Isaacs (a.isaacs@ucl.ac.uk).
A full job description and person specification for this role can be accessed below.
About You
You will have or be about to obtain a PhD in a relevant discipline (eg biomedical work) or comparable experience. Experience with in vivo work, with immunostaining, microscopy and image analysis, with molecular biology techniques such as aPR and with ELISAs / immunoassays is essential. Experience with rodent surgery and gene therapy approaches is desirable as is an interest in neuroscience and neurological diseases or gene therapy.
What we offer
As well as the exciting opportunities this role presents, we also offer great benefits, some of which are below:
- 41 Days holiday (27 days annual leave 8 bank holiday and 6 closure days)
- Additional 5 days’ annual leave purchase scheme
- Defined benefit career average revalued earnings pension scheme (CARE)
- Cycle to work scheme and season ticket loan
- Immigration loan
- On-site nursery
- On-site gym
- Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption pay
- Employee assistance programme: Staff Support Service
- Discounted medical insurance
Visit https://www.ucl.ac.uk/work-at-ucl/reward-and-benefits to find out more.
We will consider applications to work on a part-time, flexible, and job share basis wherever possible.
This appointment is subject to UCL Terms and Conditions of Service for Research and Professional Services Staff. Please visit https://www.ucl.ac.uk/human-resources/conditions-service-research-teaching-and-professional-services-staff for more information.
Our commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
The Institute prides itself on operating in an all-inclusive environment irrespective of personal, physical, or social characteristics. Teamwork is highly valued, individual strengths are recognised and celebrated, and we are committed to advancing the careers of everyone. 12% of Institute staff are actively working on Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) initiatives; visitour EDI websitefor more information about our initiatives and priorities. The Institute also holds an Athena SWAN Silver award, in recognition of our commitment and demonstrable impact in advancing gender equality.
As London’s Global University, we know diversity fosters creativity and innovation, and we want our community to represent the diversity of the world’s talent. We are committed to equality of opportunity, to being fair and inclusive, and to being a place where we all belong.
We therefore particularly encourage applications from candidates who are likely to be underrepresented in UCL’s workforce; these include people from Black, Asian and ethnic minority backgrounds, disabled people, LGBTQI+ and gender diverse people in all roles, and women in Grade 9 and 10 roles.
Available documents
Attached documents are available under links. Clicking a document link will initialize its download.
- download: 2025-07 Senior Research Technician (Isaacs)-Job description and person specification.pdf
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Senior Research Technician employer: UCL AI Centre
Contact Detail:
UCL AI Centre Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Research Technician
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest research in neurodegenerative diseases, particularly focusing on frontotemporal dementia and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. This will not only help you understand the context of the role but also allow you to engage in informed discussions during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the field by attending relevant conferences or seminars. Engaging with researchers and practitioners can provide insights into the latest methodologies and may even lead to valuable connections that could support your application.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your hands-on experience with in vivo work and molecular biology techniques. Be ready to share specific examples of your past projects, especially those involving gene therapy or immunoassays, as these are crucial for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Reach out to Professor Adrian Isaacs for an informal chat about the role. This can give you a clearer understanding of the expectations and culture within the lab, and it shows your genuine interest in the position.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Research Technician
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience, particularly in laboratory techniques and research related to neurodegenerative diseases. Emphasise any specific skills mentioned in the job description, such as in vivo work or molecular biology techniques.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that not only outlines your qualifications but also demonstrates your passion for neuroscience and gene therapy. Mention how your background aligns with the Isaacs Lab's focus on frontotemporal dementia and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your application, be sure to detail any hands-on experience you have with ELISAs, immunoassays, and rodent surgery. Use specific examples to illustrate your expertise and how it relates to the role.
Proofread and Edit: Before submitting your application, take the time to proofread your documents. Check for spelling and grammatical errors, and ensure that your writing is clear and concise. A polished application reflects your attention to detail.
How to prepare for a job interview at UCL AI Centre
✨Know Your Research
Familiarise yourself with the latest research in neurodegenerative diseases, particularly focusing on frontotemporal dementia and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Being able to discuss recent findings or methodologies will show your genuine interest and expertise in the field.
✨Demonstrate Technical Skills
Be prepared to discuss your experience with in vivo work, immunostaining, microscopy, and molecular biology techniques. Highlight specific projects where you applied these skills, as this will demonstrate your hands-on experience and suitability for the role.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the lab's current projects, future directions, and the team dynamics. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the environment aligns with your career goals.
✨Showcase Teamwork and Collaboration
Since the role involves working closely with a Research Fellow and potentially other team members, be ready to share examples of how you've successfully collaborated in past roles. Emphasising your ability to work well in a team will be crucial.