Lecturer in Translational Neuroscience

Biosciences is one of the world’s foremost centres for research and teaching in the biological sciences and one of the largest Divisions within UCL, undertaking a significant amount of research and teaching. The Division has a diverse portfolio addressing all areas of biology from protein interactions to cell function, organism development, genetics, population studies and the environment. Computational modelling approaches are frequently used alongside experimental research programmes and much of our research crosses traditional boundaries, including the relationship of biodiversity to the health of the planet. Activity is underpinned by high calibre science technology platforms and state of the art equipment. Educational activity includes a range of undergraduate programmes, an expanding number of Masters Programmes and a substantial number of postgraduate research students.

This is an exciting opportunity to join the Department of Neuroscience, Physiology and Pharmacology (NPP) as we expand our translational research. We are looking to recruit a leading researcher who unites fundamental insights into translational neuroscience research.

About the role

The main purpose of this position is to deliver world‑leading research demonstrating how basic neuroscience can translate to clinical insights. We welcome candidates with interest in any area of translational neuroscience, but particularly welcome applicants who are able to collaborate with researchers in NPP exploring the basic science of synapses, receptors and computational neuroscience.

As a Lecturer, you will be expected to:

• Develop an internationally competitive research programme that advances the translational neuroscience, with opportunities for substantial grant funding and access to UCL's world‑class research infrastructure.
• Inspire the next generation of scientists and clinicians through innovative teaching at undergraduate and postgraduate levels, particularly the UCL MBBS.
• Mentor and supervise research students, fostering the development of future leaders in the field while building your own research group.
• Forge interdisciplinary collaborations across UCL's extensive network of neuroscience researchers, including potential partnerships with the Queen Square Institute of Neurology and the UCL School of Pharmacy, and the growing translational community within Biosciences.
• Contribute to departmental initiatives, knowledge exchange activities, and public engagement.

This appointment is subject to UCL Terms and Conditions of Service for Academic Staff. You are required to submit as a cover letter, a two‑page Vision Statement outlining your innovative ideas for delivering translational Neuroscience in both research and teaching contexts. This statement should articulate your perspective on the field's future and how your work would contribute to its development at UCL.

About you

We are seeking an innovative researcher and educator at the intersection of basic and translational neuroscience. We strongly welcome applicants who have experience with the translational pipeline. We welcome candidates with both basic and clinical backgrounds, including those with non‑traditional academic paths.

A PhD in a relevant quantitative discipline (neuroscience, physiology, pharmacology, or related field), with a focus on translating basic research into translational neuroscience.

Evidence of securing external research funding, or a credible and specific plan to do so, aligned with your research vision.

Demonstrable experience of teaching at university level, including course design or delivery of lectures, practicals, or seminars in neuroscience, in particular we especially welcome experience in delivering on MBBS or medical degrees.

Evidence of productive collaborations across disciplinary boundaries, such as joint publications or grants with researchers from different fields.

What we offer

As well as the exciting opportunities this role presents, we also offer some great benefits:

• 41 Days holiday (27 days annual leave, 8 bank holiday 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
• Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption pay
• Employee assistance programme: Staff Support Service

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 diversity of 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 therefore particularly encourage applications from candidates who are likely to be underrepresented in UCL’s workforce. These include people from Black, Asian, and ethnic minority backgrounds; disabled people; and for our Grade 9 and 10 roles, women.