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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 access to professional development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in epilepsy research while collaborating with top global partners.
- Qualifications: PhD in relevant field with strong experience in computational genomics and leadership skills.
- Other info: Exciting career growth in a dynamic, multidisciplinary environment.
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 here to find out more. This appointment is subject to UCL Terms and Conditions of Service for Research and Professional Services Staff. Please visit here for more information.
Principal Research Fellow employer: UCL
Contact Detail:
UCL Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Research Fellow
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the field of epilepsy research, especially those connected to genomics and bioinformatics. Attend conferences or webinars, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself – you never know who might have a lead on your dream job!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your expertise! Prepare a portfolio showcasing your previous work, publications, and any projects related to computational genomics. This will help you stand out during interviews and demonstrate your hands-on experience with large datasets.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or colleagues to refine your answers, especially around your leadership experience and problem-solving skills. The more comfortable you are discussing your background, the better you'll perform when it counts.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We encourage you to submit your application directly on our platform. It’s the best way to ensure your CV and supporting statement get the attention they deserve. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our mission to transform lives through research!
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Research Fellow
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Principal Research Fellow role. Highlight your experience in genomics, bioinformatics, and any leadership roles you've had. We want to see how your background aligns with our mission at the Research Department of Epilepsy.
Craft a Compelling Supporting Statement: Use the supporting statement section to really sell yourself! Explain how you meet both the essential and desirable criteria listed in the job description. This is your chance to show us why you're the perfect fit for our team.
Showcase Your Publications: If you've got high-impact publications, make sure to mention them! We love seeing evidence of your research contributions, especially in computational genomics. It helps us understand your expertise and impact in the field.
Follow Application Instructions: Be sure to follow the application instructions carefully. Upload your CV and supporting statement as specified, and avoid adding any extra attachments. We want to keep things simple and straightforward for everyone!
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 genomics and epilepsy research. Familiarise yourself with the work of the Sisodiya group and other key players in the field. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you engage in meaningful discussions during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Principal Research Fellow, you'll be leading a team. Prepare examples that highlight your leadership experience, especially in guiding junior analysts or managing multidisciplinary projects. Be ready to discuss how you foster collaboration and problem-solving within your team.
✨Demonstrate Technical Proficiency
Brush up on your skills in bioinformatics tools and programming languages like Python and R. Be prepared to discuss specific projects where you've applied these skills, particularly in analysing large datasets or working with public repositories. This will showcase your hands-on experience and technical expertise.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare insightful questions about the research department's future directions, collaborations, and how they integrate climate change impacts into their work. This shows your enthusiasm for the role and helps you assess if it’s the right fit for you.
