At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a dynamic team to explore retinal organoids and tackle neurodegeneration.
- Company: UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, known for its inclusive and collaborative research environment.
- Benefits: Generous pension scheme, holiday allowance, and enhanced parental pay.
- Other info: Great career growth opportunities and a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in cutting-edge research with leading experts in the field.
- Qualifications: Experience in stem cell culture, immunohistochemistry, and a passion for molecular biology.
The predicted salary is between 44791 - 54745 £ per year.
There is a vacancy for a graduate Research Assistant to join a research group headed by Professor Alison Hardcastle. The Hardcastle lab fosters a collegiate and inclusive environment that works closely in a shared lab with several other PIs to form a large team (>30) at the UCL Institute of Ophthalmology.
We are looking for a research assistant to differentiate retinal organoids which are used to explore the molecular mechanisms of retinal degeneration and test potential therapeutic approaches. The successful candidate will be motivated to contribute to high-quality research, with an ability to think and work independently and work effectively as part of a team, with excellent organizational skills.
The post would suit an ambitious researcher with a strong interest in the mechanisms of neurodegeneration, retinal molecular and cellular biology, and/or therapeutic development. The successful candidate will preferably have experience of stem cell culture and differentiation. They will also have experience of immunohistochemistry, transcriptomics and biochemical analyses. They will work as part of a multidisciplinary team, and with established collaborators, to investigate the molecular mechanism of inherited retinal degeneration using iPSC derived retinal organoids and animal models to explore potential therapies. Applicants close to submission of their PhD will also be considered.
Appointment as a Research Fellow at Grade 7 is dependent upon having been awarded a PhD. If this is not the case, an initial appointment will be made as a Research Assistant at Grade 6b (£39,807 -£41,833) with payment at Grade 7 backdated upon award of a PhD to the date of final submission of the PhD thesis (with corrections).
If you have any queries regarding the vacancy please contact Professor Alison Hardcastle.
Working with some of the greatest intellects in the world, UCL also offers a generous pension scheme and holiday allowance, plus closure and bank holidays as well as enhanced parental pay and more.
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. Our department holds an Athena Swan Silver award in recognition of our commitment and demonstrable impact in advancing gender equality.
Research Assistant in Retinal Organoids and Molecular Mechanisms in London employer: UCL
UCL School of Management is an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and innovative work culture, ideal for those passionate about digital communications. Located in the vibrant city of London, employees benefit from professional growth opportunities, access to cutting-edge resources, and a commitment to inclusivity and diversity. Join us to make a meaningful impact while enjoying a supportive environment that values your contributions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Assistant in Retinal Organoids and Molecular Mechanisms in London
✨Get Involved in Research Communities
Dive headfirst into the scientific research world by joining relevant communities and forums. Engage in discussions, share your insights, and even attend conferences or seminars in your field. This not only boosts your visibility but can also lead to potential job opportunities—don't forget to connect with like-minded folks!
✨Show Off Your Research Projects
Have you worked on any cool research projects? Make it easy for potential employers to see your work by creating a portfolio or a personal website. This way, when you apply for roles like the one at UCL, you can point them to your projects and publications, showcasing your expertise directly.
✨Utilise Professional Networks
Networking is key in scientific research. Join professional bodies or organisations related to your field. They often have job boards and resources tailored for job seekers. Make connections with professionals who may know about openings or can give you tips on landing a full-time position.
✨Keep Your Eyes on Openings & Apply Directly
Don’t just rely on job boards! Keep an eye on the careers section of the websites of companies like UCL. Apply directly through their website because sometimes they post jobs there before anywhere else. Plus, it shows your proactive approach!
We think you need these skills to ace Research Assistant in Retinal Organoids and Molecular Mechanisms in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Research Experience:When applying for a full-time role in scientific research, make sure to emphasise your research experience prominently in your CV. Share specific projects you’ve worked on, the methodologies you used, and any significant findings. If you’ve published papers or presented at conferences, definitely include that too – it shows you’re on it in the academic world!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Research Area:Your cover letter should reflect your passion for the specific area of research at UCL. Mention relevant experiences that align with the organisation’s goals or projects. This shows that you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in the position – plus, it helps us see how you’d fit into the team dynamics.
Showcase Your Data Analysis Skills:In scientific research, data analysis skills are a big deal! Make sure to detail any relevant analytical tools or software you’re familiar with, like R, Python, or statistical packages. Employers are keen to know you can handle the data-heavy elements of the role, so add specific examples where you’ve used these skills effectively.
Discuss Your Future Research Goals:In your motivation section, it’s a great idea to talk about your future research goals and how they align with the work being done at UCL. This shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but rather a chance to contribute meaningfully to the field. We love to see applicants who are forward-thinking and enthusiastic about their research journey!
How to prepare for a job interview at UCL
✨Showcase Your Research Skills
In scientific research, it’s crucial to demonstrate your ability to design and conduct experiments. Come armed with examples of past projects where you've developed hypotheses, collected data, and analysed results. Be ready to discuss any specific methodologies or tools you’ve used, like PCR techniques or statistical software.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect some technical questions specific to your field. Make sure you're up to speed with recent advancements in scientific research related to the role at UCL. Brush up on concepts relevant to their projects and be prepared to discuss how you would approach a specific research problem or challenge they might face.
✨Know Your Publications
If you've authored or co-authored any papers, be prepared to discuss them! Highlighting your contributions to published research can really set you apart. It shows not only your expertise but also your ability to communicate complex ideas clearly, which is key in scientific research roles.
✨Exhibit Your Team Spirit
In full-time roles, collaboration is often at the heart of scientific research. Prepare examples that show how you've successfully worked in teams, dealt with conflicts, or contributed to group projects. We want to know how you can work effectively with the team at UCL to drive research projects forward.
