At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative research in Cell and Developmental Biology and establish your own independent research group.
- Company: Join UCL, ranked 9th in Biological Sciences globally, with a vibrant research community.
- Benefits: Gain access to cutting-edge facilities, mentorship, and support for fellowship applications.
- Other info: Opportunities for career growth and collaboration with top institutions like the Francis Crick Institute.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in biology while developing your career in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Exceptional early-career researchers with a strong track record and innovative research proposals.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
The Research Department of Cell and Developmental Biology (CDB) at University College London (UCL) invites Expressions of Interest from early-career researchers who wish to be sponsored for external fellowships to establish an independent research group via a tenure-track process.
We are looking for outstanding candidates who address fundamental biological questions using innovative approaches and technologies. Applicants may work in any area of Cell or Developmental Biology and allied subjects. We are interested in candidates who can demonstrate synergy with research carried out in our Center for Engineering Life, in particular synthetic developmental biology. The ability to teach cell biology, development and/or anatomy would be considered an advantage.
UCL is ranked 9th in Biological Sciences in the 2026 QS World University Rankings. CDB offers an interactive and rich research environment with access to cutting-edge facilities. The diverse research areas in CDB include animal development, stem cell biology, functional and evolutionary morphology, neuroscience, organelle biology and cell signalling. The Department is home to several centres, including the UCL Centre for Integrative Anatomy and the UCL Consortium for Mitochondrial Research. Close links also exist to the Francis Crick Institute, the Natural History Museum and the Sainsbury-Wellcome Centre for Neural Circuits and Behaviour.
For informal enquiries, please contact Professor Roberto Mayor, Fellowship Coordinator of CDB.
To apply, please email the following as one PDF document:
- a full CV with names of referees;
- a one-page outline of your fellowship application/proposal including a title;
- a cover letter explaining how your proposal is suitable for the fellowship scheme(s) you are interested in, a timeline for application(s), and how you see this research programme fitting into CDB.
Successful candidates will be of the highest calibre, can demonstrate an exceptional track record in their career stage and have the potential to submit competitive fellowship applications. Shortlisted candidates will give a departmental seminar and meet with faculty members. This may be face-to-face or via an online platform. Selected candidates will be provided with support for their fellowship applications, including mock interviews. Candidates that are successful in securing a fellowship are provided with post-award support, including membership of the Biosciences Fellowship Network, assignment of a mentor, access to additional support for research and further funding, opportunities to attract PhD students through PhD programs, and additional funding support beyond the end of the fellowship. Fellows will be assessed for a permanent position within the department one year before the end of their fellowship.
External research fellowships available for sponsorship from CDB include the Wellcome Trust Career Development Award, UKRI Future Leaders Fellowship, MRC Career Development Award, CRUK Career Development Fellowship, ERC Starting Grant, Royal Society URF, Royal Society Dorothy Hodgkin, and EPSRC Open Fellowship.
Career Development Fellowships in the Department of CDB, UCL in London employer: UCL
University College London (UCL) is an exceptional employer for early-career researchers, offering a vibrant and collaborative research environment within the Department of Cell and Developmental Biology. With access to cutting-edge facilities and strong connections to prestigious institutions, UCL provides unparalleled opportunities for professional growth, mentorship, and support in securing external fellowships. The department's commitment to fostering innovative research and teaching ensures that employees can thrive while contributing to significant advancements in biological sciences.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Career Development Fellowships in the Department of CDB, UCL in London
✨Get Your Foot in the Lab
Look for local labs or research facilities that offer trainee positions. Volunteering for a few hours can not only boost your CV but also help you make connections that will come in handy when applying for roles at places like UCL.
✨Join Biology-Specific Networks
Check out biology-related meetups or online communities. Join forums where professionals discuss current research trends and techniques—these can be goldmines for connections and job leads tailored to your interests.
✨Gain Practical Experience
Don’t underestimate the power of internships or placements, even if they’re unpaid. Gaining hands-on experience in biology can set you apart when applying for trainee positions. Apply through our website to make sure you’re first in line for opportunities.
✨Attend Career Fairs
Keep an eye out for university career fairs that focus on life sciences. These events are perfect for meeting potential employers in a relaxed setting and could lead to exciting trainee roles, so come prepared to chat about what you can bring to the table at UCL.
We think you need these skills to ace Career Development Fellowships in the Department of CDB, UCL in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show off your passion for biology!:When you're crafting your CV and cover letter, don't shy away from sharing your genuine enthusiasm for biology. Include any relevant projects, coursework, or experiences that illustrate your love for the field—especially if you’ve dabbled in lab work or field studies. This is particularly important for a trainee role; we value eagerness to learn and grow!
Highlight your teamwork skills:In biology, collaboration can be key, especially in research settings. Make sure to spotlight any experience you have working in groups, whether that’s through academic projects, lab teams, or volunteering. Showing us that you’re a great team player will really help in your application.
Tailor your application documents:Make your CV and cover letter specific to the role at UCL. Highlight your relevant coursework and skills, and align them with what they’re looking for in a trainee. If you have specific interests in certain biological fields, give them a nod! It's all about making your application feel uniquely yours and lined up with what we're after.
Bring your curiosity to the forefront:As a trainee, demonstrating curiosity and a desire to learn is vital. Use your cover letter to express what specifically excites you about this role at UCL and how you see it fitting into your career path. This will show us that you're driven and ready to dive into the biological world with enthusiasm.
How to prepare for a job interview at UCL
✨Brush Up on Your Core Biology Knowledge
We should delve into the fundamental concepts of biology. Make sure you’re comfortable discussing key areas such as genetics, microbiology, and ecology, as interviewers might throw some technical questions your way to gauge your understanding. Knowing your stuff will show your passion and preparedness!
✨Show Us Your Research Skills
Since this is a trainee role, any real-world experience you have in conducting experiments or engaging in fieldwork could be a big plus. Prepare to talk about any projects or coursework, maybe even bring along a portfolio showcasing relevant lab work you’ve done. Being able to demonstrate your practical skills will help set you apart!
✨Express Your Willingness to Learn
As a trainee, they’ll likely look for your motivation and potential. Be ready to discuss what excites you about the biology field and any specific areas you’re eager to explore further. This mindset not only shows enthusiasm but also a commitment to growth!
✨Anticipate Collaborative Scenarios
Biology often involves teamwork, especially in research settings. You might face behavioural interview questions about working in a team or handling conflict. Think of examples from your studies or group projects where you successfully collaborated or resolved issues. This will demonstrate your ability to work harmoniously with others!
