At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative research in AI and computational biology to tackle fundamental biological questions.
- Company: UCL's Division of Biosciences, a hub for cutting-edge research and teaching.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous holiday, pension scheme, and on-site facilities.
- Other info: Opportunities for career growth and contributions to a diverse academic community.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team transforming biology with AI and machine learning.
- Qualifications: PhD in relevant fields and a passion for interdisciplinary collaboration.
The predicted salary is between 54931 - 76244 £ per year.
About us
The Division of Biosciences at UCL is a major centre for research and teaching in the biological sciences, fostering fundamental, innovative research that spans molecules to ecosystems. Within Biosciences, the Research Department of Cell & Developmental Biology (CDB) is internationally recognised for fundamental research into the principles that govern the behaviour and organisation of individual cells during life, growth and development. CDB combines experimental and computational approaches to study biological processes across scales, from molecular interactions and cellular organisation to tissues, organisms and multicellular systems. Much of our research crosses traditional disciplinary boundaries, bringing together cell biology, developmental biology, biophysics, mathematics, quantitative imaging, modelling and machine learning. Our research is supported by outstanding core facilities, including advanced microscopy and imaging platforms and close links with UCL’s Advanced Research Computing (ARC) Centre. Educational activity includes a range of undergraduate programmes, an expanding number of Masters Programmes and a substantial number of postgraduate research students.
We are recruiting a Lecturer/Assistant Professor or Associate Professor who applies cutting-edge machine learning, artificial intelligence and related computational biology to fundamental biological problems.
About the role
Biology is undergoing a profound transformation driven by advances in machine learning, artificial intelligence and computational modelling. Increasingly, the challenge is not simply to generate larger datasets, but to develop predictive and mechanistic understanding of living systems. A long-term ambition for modern biology is to build quantitative models that can explain, predict and eventually anticipate the behaviour of cells, tissues and organisms.
To address this opportunity, CDB seeks to appoint an outstanding academic colleague who will establish an ambitious research and teaching programme applying artificial intelligence, machine learning and computational approaches to fundamental questions in cell and developmental biology. We welcome applicants developing innovative approaches across a broad range of areas, including but not limited to machine learning, generative and foundation models for biology, digital twins, mechanistic and hybrid modelling, statistical inference, or AI-enabled experimental design. We are particularly interested in candidates whose work tightly integrates computational and experimental biology, while also welcoming researchers developing novel computational methods with broad biological applicability.
The successful candidate will establish or grow an independent, internationally competitive and collaborative research programme within CDB. They will work closely with colleagues across Biosciences and the wider university, including researchers in computer science, mathematics, engineering, health and UCL’s growing AI ecosystem. The post holder will be expected to secure competitive research funding, supervise and mentor postgraduate researchers, and take a full part in research-led teaching across undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. They will also contribute to strategic leadership in computational and AI-driven biology across CDB and UCL.
Interview Date(s) are scheduled for: September 2026. This appointment is subject to UCL Terms and Conditions of Service for Academic Staff.
About you
You will have a PhD or equivalent qualification in computational biology, quantitative biology, computer science, applied mathematics, biophysics, engineering, statistics or a related discipline, together with an innovative research agenda that seeks to apply artificial intelligence and computational approaches to fundamental biological questions. You will have an established track record (Grade 9) or clear potential (Grade 8) to develop an internationally recognised research programme, attract competitive external funding and contribute to interdisciplinary collaborations. You will also have experience of, or a strong commitment to, research-led teaching at undergraduate and/or postgraduate level. You will demonstrate the ability to work across disciplinary boundaries and to translate advances in computation, machine learning and AI into new biological understanding. We particularly welcome applicants who will actively engage with colleagues across CDB and neighbouring departments specifically the Research Department of Structural and Molecular Biology and the Laboratory for Molecular Cell Biology. The expectation is to develop new interdisciplinary approaches to fundamental biological problems, and to contribute to an ambitious and collaborative academic environment.
What we offer
As well as the exciting opportunities this role presents, we also offer some great benefits:
- Grade 8-9 salary 54,931 - 76,244 inclusive of London allowance
- 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
- Immigration loan and expenses
- Relocation scheme for certain posts
- On-Site nursery
- On-site gym
- Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption pay
- Employee assistance programme: Staff Support Service
- Discounted medical insurance
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. Our department holds an Athena SWAN Silver award, in recognition of our commitment to advancing gender equality.
Lecturer/Associate Professor in Artificial Intelligence and Computational Biosciences in London employer: University College London
University College London is an exceptional employer that fosters a vibrant and inclusive work culture, particularly within the Cultural and Community Engagement team at UCL East. As an apprentice, you will benefit from hands-on experience in communications while being supported by a team dedicated to your professional growth and development. With a focus on diversity and community involvement, this role offers unique opportunities to engage with various events and initiatives that make a meaningful impact.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lecturer/Associate Professor in Artificial Intelligence and Computational Biosciences in London
✨Get Involved in Local Research Communities
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We think you need these skills to ace Lecturer/Associate Professor in Artificial Intelligence and Computational Biosciences in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Lab Skills:In the biotechnology field, it's super important to highlight your lab experience in your CV. Be sure to mention specific techniques or instruments you've mastered (think PCR, gel electrophoresis, etc.) and any relevant projects you've worked on. This will show University College London that you have the hands-on skills they need.
Tailor Your Technical Skills:Make sure to emphasise your technical skills, especially those relevant to the biotechnology sector. Include any software tools or programming languages you've used, like R or Python for data analysis, which could be key for this role at University College London.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Since this is a full-time role, your cover letter should reflect not only your passion for biotechnology but also your long-term career ambitions. Share why you're excited about the work that University College London does and how you envision contributing to their goals. This shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but you're genuinely invested in this opportunity.
Include Your Papers and Projects:If you've published any papers or contributed to significant projects, mention them! These documents can boost your application and provide tangible evidence of your expertise in the biotechnology field. Don’t forget to link to any relevant publications or project summaries—this can set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at University College London
✨Brush Up on Lab Techniques
Since you're eyeing a full-time gig in biotechnology, make sure you're well-versed in the lab techniques relevant to the role. Be ready to talk about PCR, CRISPR, or any specific methods mentioned in the job description at University College London. You might even be asked to demonstrate your understanding of these processes.
✨Know Your Bioinformatics Tools
Get comfortable with bioinformatics tools that are commonly used in the industry, like BLAST or Bioconductor. These are key in biotechnology, and having hands-on experience or at least familiarity can set you apart. Prepare to discuss any relevant projects you've worked on, especially if they involved data analysis or genomic research.
✨Show Your Teamwork Skills
Biotech often involves collaboration across multiple disciplines. Be ready to share stories that highlight your teamwork and communication skills, especially in research projects. Think about working with different teams at university or any internships – this is where you can show how well you fit into University College London's culture.
✨Research Recent Biotech Innovations
Stay updated on the latest trends and breakthroughs in biotechnology. Knowing what's happening in the field can help you engage in more meaningful discussions during your interview. Bring up recent articles or advancements that excite you, especially those related to the work being done at University College London. This shows your passion for the industry!
