Research Assistant

The Department of Neurodegenerative Diseases is a hub for clinical and research excellence across the spectrum of neurodegenerative diseases.

Using a powerful combination of modern non-invasive research approaches and a variety of cellular, animal and human models, the team focuses on understanding the causes and biological mechanisms leading to neurodegeneration and translating this knowledge into developing novel therapeutic solutions that is of direct benefit to neurological disorders.

Applications are invited for a Research Assistant to work in a laboratory involved in a number of world-class genomic research initiatives that provide funding for this work, under the supervision of Professor Hardy, Dr Salih and Dr Shoai.

You will be responsible for DNA and RNA extraction from biosamples, Sanger sequencing, and other genetic techniques, as well as culturing and maintaining a range of cell models and analysing cell lines. You will also be trained to undertake the initial review of sample data and will contribute to the processing and maintenance of laboratory spaces.

The role will also involve working closely with academics and clinicians and contributing to the wider research activities of the team, including preparing presentations and contributing to publications. The role would suit a motivated, ambitious and hardworking individual who is keen to develop their research skills in a world-leading neuroscience environment.

The post is available from 01 October 2026 and funded by a grant from the Fidelity Bermuda Foundation until 31 March 2028 in the first instance.

If you need reasonable adjustments or a more accessible format to apply for this job online, or have any queries regarding the application process, please contact the Institute of Neurology HR Team ( [email protected] ).

Informal enquiries regarding the role can be addressed to Dr Maryam Shoai ( [email protected] ).

A full job description and person specification for this role can be accessed below. 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.

You will have a degree in Biological Sciences or a related subject, or an equivalent qualification, together with relevant research experience. You will have experience of molecular biology techniques, ideally including DNA and RNA extraction, Sanger sequencing, and fragment analysis, and experience working with biological samples such as blood and brain tissue.

You will have excellent time management skills and the ability to work to strict objectives while in a high-pressure environment. Good communication and interpersonal skills with an aptitude to work co-operatively in a multidisciplinary setting are also required.

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.