Research Fellow/Senior Research Fellow

The Department of Translational Neuroscience and Stroke at UCL is dedicated to understanding the underlying mechanisms of neurological diseases and developing innovative treatments to improve patient outcomes. Our multidisciplinary team brings together expertise in neuroscience, clinical neurology, and computational modelling to translate cutting‑edge research into real‑world impact.

As part of this mission, UCL is launching a five‑year, Medical Research Council‑funded Deep Network Modelling in Neuro‑oncology programme. This pioneering project aims to build a robust framework that enables more accurate and equitable prediction of individual patient outcomes, facilitates personalised treatment prescriptions, and reveals critical disease mechanisms essential for future therapeutic advances. The project will develop and apply advanced modelling techniques to high‑dimensional clinical and imaging data, delivering real‑world applications across the neuro‑oncology landscape. Embedded within the High‑Dimensional Neurology Group, which offers strong infrastructural and computational support, this work is led by Dr James Ruffle, who oversees the neuro‑oncology research stream.

We are seeking a talented researcher to join a major neuro‑oncology initiative focused on applying AI and network modelling to brain tumour research. You will work with globally unique datasets to develop cutting‑edge tools for personalised prediction, treatment planning, and discovery of disease mechanisms. This is a unique opportunity for an experienced researcher seeking to consolidate their academic career in translational research or to bridge into industry through spin‑outs or established enterprises.

As Research Fellow/Senior Research Fellow, you will play a central role in shaping and driving the research agenda, with responsibilities spanning data governance and curation, advanced modelling using NLP and multi‑modal imaging data, high‑dimensional data visualisation, and leading on both scientific publications and major grant applications. You will also contribute to the strategic direction of the research group, mentor junior researchers, supervise students, and collaborate across interdisciplinary teams.

The post is available immediately and funded by the Medical Research Council for one year in the first instance with the possibility of extension to 30 September 2030. This role is eligible for hybrid working with a minimum of 60% of time on site.

To be successful in securing a Research Fellow appointment, you will hold (or be close to obtaining) a PhD in Mathematics, Engineering, Computer Science, or Computational Neuroscience, or possess equivalent relevant industry experience. Demonstrable expertise in complex modelling techniques, such as machine learning, network neuroscience, or other related computational approaches, is essential. Candidates applying for appointment at Senior Research Fellow level will, in addition, have prior postdoctoral research experience and a track record of first‑author publications in peer‑reviewed journals or experience in securing research funding, alongside a PhD in Mathematics, Engineering, Computer Science, or Computational Neuroscience.

You will have strong proficiency in high‑level programming (particularly in Python) and be confident working with large, high‑dimensional datasets. You will be passionate about scientific innovation and discovery, with a commitment to the real‑world translation of research in neuro‑oncology. You should be resourceful, self‑motivated, and capable of working independently while also contributing effectively within a collaborative, multidisciplinary research environment.

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.

Starting salary offered at Research Fellow/UCL Grade 7 (£45,103 - £52,586 per annum including London Allowance) or Senior Research Fellow/UCL Grade 8 (£54,931 per annum including London Allowance), dependent on skills and experience. Appointment as Research Fellow is dependent upon having been awarded a PhD; if this is not the case, initial appointment will be as Research Assistant (salary £39,148 - £41,833 per annum) with appointment as Research Fellow being backdated to the date of final submission of the PhD thesis.

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

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

We will consider applications to work on a part‑time, flexible, and job share basis wherever possible.

The Institute prides itself on operating in an all‑inclusive environment irrespective of personal, physical, or social characteristics. Teamwork is highly valued, individual strengths are recognised and celebrated, and we are committed to advancing the careers of everyone. 12% of Institute staff are actively working on Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) initiatives; visit our EDI website for more information about our initiatives and priorities. The Institute also holds an Athena SWAN Gold award, in recognition of our commitment and demonstrable impact in advancing gender equality.

As London’s Global University, we know diversity fosters creativity and innovation, 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. 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, LGBTQI+ and gender diverse people in all roles, and women in Grade 9 and 10 roles.