At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative research in AI and computational biosciences, shaping the future of biology.
- Company: UCL's Division of Biosciences, a hub for groundbreaking research and education.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous holiday, pension scheme, and wellness support.
- Other info: Join a diverse community committed to equality and innovation.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in biology using cutting-edge AI and machine learning techniques.
- Qualifications: PhD in relevant fields and a passion for interdisciplinary collaboration.
About us
The Division of Biosciences at UCL is a major centre for research and teaching in the biological sciences, fostering fundamental, innovative research that spans molecules to ecosystems. Within Biosciences, the Research Department of Cell & Developmental Biology (CDB) is internationally recognised for fundamental research that investigates the principles governing the behaviour and organisation of individual cells during life, growth and development. CDB combines experimental and computational approaches to study biological processes across scales, from molecular interactions and cellular organisation to tissues, organisms and multicellular systems. Much of our research crosses traditional disciplinary boundaries, bringing together cell biology, developmental biology, biophysics, mathematics, quantitative imaging, modelling and machine learning. Our research is supported by outstanding core facilities, including advanced microscopy and imaging platforms and close links with UCL's Advanced Research Computing (ARC) Centre. Educational activity includes a range of undergraduate programmes, an expanding number of Masters programmes and a substantial number of postgraduate research students.
About the role
Biology is undergoing a profound transformation driven by advances in machine learning, artificial intelligence and computational modelling. Increasingly the challenge is not simply to generate larger datasets, but to develop predictive and mechanistic understanding of living systems. A long‑term ambition for modern biology is to build quantitative models that can explain, predict and eventually anticipate the behaviour of cells, tissues and organisms. To address this opportunity, CDB seeks to appoint an outstanding academic colleague who will establish an ambitious research and teaching programme applying artificial intelligence, machine learning and computational approaches to fundamental questions in cell and developmental biology. We welcome applicants developing innovative approaches across a broad range of areas, including but not limited to machine learning, generative and foundation models for biology, digital twins, mechanistic and hybrid modelling, statistical inference or AI‑enabled experimental design. We are particularly interested in candidates whose work tightly integrates computational and experimental biology, and we also welcome researchers developing novel computational methods with broad biological applicability.
The successful candidate will establish or grow an independent, internationally competitive and collaborative research programme within CDB. They will work closely with colleagues across Biosciences and the wider university, including researchers in computer science, mathematics, engineering, health and UCL's growing AI ecosystem. Responsibilities include securing competitive research funding, supervising and mentoring postgraduate researchers, and taking a full part in research‑led teaching across undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. The post holder will also contribute to strategic leadership in computational and AI‑driven biology across CDB and UCL.
About you
You will have a PhD or equivalent qualification in computational biology, quantitative biology, computer science, applied mathematics, biophysics, engineering, statistics or a related discipline, together with an innovative research agenda that seeks to apply artificial intelligence and computational approaches to fundamental biological questions. You will have an established track record (Grade 9) or clear potential (Grade 8) to develop an internationally recognised research programme, attract competitive external funding and contribute to interdisciplinary collaborations. You will also have experience of, or a strong commitment to, research‑led teaching at undergraduate and/or postgraduate level. You will demonstrate the ability to work across disciplinary boundaries and to translate advances in computation, machine learning and AI into new biological understanding. We particularly welcome applicants who will actively engage with colleagues across CDB and neighbouring departments, specifically the Research Department of Structural and Molecular Biology and the Laboratory for Molecular Cell Biology. The expectation is to develop new interdisciplinary approaches to fundamental biological problems and to contribute to an ambitious and collaborative academic environment.
What we offer
As well as the exciting opportunities this role presents, we also offer the following benefits:
- Grade 8‑9 salary £54,931 – £76,244 inclusive of London allowance
- 41 days holiday (27 days annual leave, 8 bank holidays 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 and expenses
- Relocation scheme for certain posts
- On‑site nursery
- On‑site gym
- Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption pay
- Employee assistance programme: Staff Support Service
- Discounted medical insurance
Our commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
As London's Global University, we know that diversity and inclusion are fundamental drivers of creativity, innovation and excellence, and we want our community to represent 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, thrive and reach our full potential. We particularly encourage applications from candidates who are likely to be under‑represented in UCL's workforce, including people from Black, Asian and ethnic minority backgrounds, disabled people, and, for our Grade 9 and 10 roles, women. Our department holds an Athena SWAN Silver award, recognising our commitment to advancing gender equality.
Lecturer/Associate Professor in Artificial Intelligence and Computational Biosciences employer: UCL
The Faculty of Social and Historical Sciences offers a dynamic and supportive work environment, where your contributions to student recruitment and marketing will be valued. With a strong emphasis on professional development, you will have opportunities to grow your skills in higher education admissions and digital marketing while collaborating with a diverse team dedicated to excellence in teaching and research. Located in a vibrant academic community, this role provides a unique chance to engage with prospective students and make a meaningful impact on their educational journey.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lecturer/Associate Professor in Artificial Intelligence and Computational Biosciences
✨Explore University Career Fairs
University career fairs are gold mines, especially for biology roles. We should hit up these events, connect with potential employers like UCL, and get the inside scoop on full-time opportunities. Plus, it's a fab way to showcase our passion for the field!
✨Join Biology Communities
Get involved in local biology associations or online forums—these are great for networking and hearing about job openings before they hit the mainstream. Engaging in meaningful discussions can help us stand out and get noticed by hiring managers in the biology sector.
✨Attend Industry Conferences
Plan to attend biology-related conferences or workshops. These events are perfect for making connections, learning about the latest research, and even finding out which companies, like UCL, are expanding and hiring full-time positions. Don't forget to bring your business cards!
✨Show Off Your Research Skills
When you land that interview, be ready to flaunt your research experience and practical skills. Discuss any lab work, projects, or internships that demonstrate your expertise in biology. We want to make sure the interviewers see exactly why we're a great fit for the role at UCL.
We think you need these skills to ace Lecturer/Associate Professor in Artificial Intelligence and Computational Biosciences
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Lab Skills:In the biology field, it's super important to highlight any relevant lab skills. Make sure to include techniques you’ve mastered, like PCR or chromatography, right in your CV. This helps us see your hands-on experience and how you can contribute at UCL.
Tailor Your Cover Letter with Passion:When writing your cover letter, let your enthusiasm for biology shine through! Share specific examples of projects or research that fuel your passion. It’s the perfect way to convey your motivation and fit for the role of Lecturer/Associate Professor in Artificial Intelligence and Computational Biosciences at UCL.
Include Relevant Certifications:If you’ve got any certifications related to biology—like Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) or even specific software for data analysis—be sure to mention those. They can really set you apart from other applicants and show us you’re dedicated to your professional development.
Highlight Team Projects and Communication Skills:Biology often involves collaboration, so don’t shy away from mentioning any team projects you've worked on in your CV. Emphasise how you communicated findings or contributed in group settings. This gives us insight into how you’d fit into our team at UCL.
How to prepare for a job interview at UCL
✨Brush Up on Your Technical Knowledge
Get ready to dive deep into the scientific concepts related to your field! For a biology role, you'll likely face questions about experimental design, data analysis techniques, and possibly even lab protocols. Make sure you're clear on your coursework and any practical experiences you've had.
✨Show Off Your Lab Skills
Hands-on experience can make or break an interview in biology. Be prepared to discuss your previous lab work, including techniques like PCR, gel electrophoresis, or microscopy. Bring a portfolio of your lab reports or relevant projects to really impress the hiring team at UCL.
✨Communicate Your Passion for Biology
As this is a full-time position, employers at UCL are looking for someone who is not just qualified, but truly enthusiastic about biology. Be ready to share specific moments or projects that ignited your interest in the field. A personal story can really set you apart!
✨Prepare for Behavioural Questions
Don’t underestimate the power of behavioural questions! Expect to discuss situations from your studies or internships where you showed teamwork, problem-solving, or conflict resolution. This is your chance to show that you're not only a great biologist but also a great colleague!
