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- Tasks: Lead groundbreaking research on epilepsy genomics and climate change impacts.
- Company: Join a leading research department dedicated to transforming lives through innovative science.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in epilepsy research while collaborating with top global partners.
- Qualifications: PhD in relevant field with strong bioinformatics and leadership experience.
- Other info: Exciting role with potential for international applicants and career advancement.
The predicted salary is between 68284 - 74166 £ per year.
About us
The mission of the Research Department of Epilepsy (DoE) is to transform the lives of people living with epilepsy for the better by identifying, understanding, and correcting or preventing the underlying mechanisms leading to the epilepsies and associated comorbidities in each individual person. Our vision is to build upon the excellence and breadth of our research, seamlessly integrating basic and clinical science.
Based within the Department, the Sisodiya group focuses on understanding complex epilepsies from a multimodal approach, focusing on clinical phenotyping, genomics, imaging and other approaches, with a view to translational impact. The group also works on climate change impacts on neurological disorders, especially epilepsy.
About the role
We are seeking a Principal Research Fellow to lead work on the genomics of epilepsy within a wider programme of translational research, including genomics and climate change, under the supervision of Professor Sanjay Sisodiya. You will oversee a team of analysts and provide strategic bioinformatics support across multidisciplinary projects. The role involves analysing clinical and genomic data from well-characterised epilepsy cohorts, with a focus on clinical application, in collaboration with national and international partners including Genomics England, UK Biobank, Epi25, and ENIGMA-Epilepsy. The role is available from 01 April 2026 and is funded by Epilepsy Society until 01 April 2029 in the first instance with the possibility of extension. This role is eligible for hybrid working with a minimum of 60% of time on site.
To apply, please upload a current CV, complete the online application form, and use the supporting statement section or upload a cover letter to outline how you meet the essential and desirable criteria for the role. Please do not upload any additional attachments as these will not be considered by the selection panel.
About you
You will hold a PhD in Genetics, Bioinformatics, Biostatistics, Computer Science, or a closely related discipline, with a strong track record in computational genomics and next-generation sequencing analysis. You will have extensive experience in bioinformatics research, demonstrated through high-impact publications, successful grant funding, and leadership of junior analysts or computational staff. Expertise in Linux environments, scripting/programming (e.g., Bash, Python, R), and genomic analysis pipelines is essential, along with hands-on experience working with large datasets and public repositories such as Genomics England, UK Biobank, and gnomAD. You will be a collaborative and effective leader, with a strong problem-solving mindset, excellent interpersonal skills, and a demonstrable ability to work across multidisciplinary teams. A meticulous approach to data integration, commitment to high research standards, and willingness to continue learning are key to success in this role.
This role meets the eligibility requirements for a skilled worker certificate of sponsorship or a global talent visa under UK Visas and Immigration legislation. Therefore, UCL welcomes applications from international applicants who require a visa.
What we offer
Starting salary offered in the range £68,284 - £74,166 per annum inclusive of London Allowance. As well as the exciting opportunities this role presents; visit to find out more. This appointment is subject to UCL Terms and Conditions of Service for Research and Professional Services Staff.
Principal Research Fellow in London employer: UCL
Contact Detail:
UCL Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Research Fellow in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees in the field of epilepsy research. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral, which can really boost your chances.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by diving deep into the latest research on epilepsy and genomics. Show us that you're not just knowledgeable but also passionate about making a difference in this field.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation and reiterate your enthusiasm for the role. It keeps you fresh in their minds!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows us you’re genuinely interested in being part of our mission to transform lives through research.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Research Fellow in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of Principal Research Fellow. Highlight your experience in genomics, bioinformatics, and any relevant projects you've led. We want to see how your background aligns with our mission at the Research Department of Epilepsy.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Use the supporting statement section or upload a cover letter that clearly outlines how you meet both the essential and desirable criteria. Be specific about your skills and experiences, and show us why you're the perfect fit for our team!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: Since this role involves overseeing a team, make sure to highlight your leadership experience. Share examples of how you've successfully led projects or mentored junior analysts, as we value collaborative and effective leaders.
Follow Application Guidelines: Stick to the application guidelines by only uploading your CV and cover letter. Avoid additional attachments, as they won't be considered. We appreciate your attention to detail and following instructions!
How to prepare for a job interview at UCL
✨Know Your Research Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the latest developments in epilepsy research, especially in genomics and climate change impacts. Familiarise yourself with the work of the Sisodiya group and be ready to discuss how your expertise aligns with their mission.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your experience in leading teams and mentoring junior analysts. Be ready to discuss how you’ve successfully managed multidisciplinary projects and how you can bring that experience to the role.
✨Demonstrate Technical Proficiency
Brush up on your skills in Linux, scripting languages like Python or R, and genomic analysis pipelines. Be prepared to discuss specific projects where you’ve applied these skills, particularly with large datasets and public repositories.
✨Engage with the Interviewers
Remember, interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the team dynamics, ongoing projects, and future directions of the research department. This shows your genuine interest and helps you assess if it’s the right fit for you.
