"Research Technician"

The Department of Neuromuscular Diseases is a hub for clinical and research excellence across the spectrum of spinal cord and neuromuscular diseases. Our group of world-leading clinical, genetic and basic science researchers focus their work on understanding the causes and biological mechanisms leading to Neuromuscular Diseases and translating this knowledge into developing novel therapeutic solutions that is of direct benefit to neurological disorders.

We are now recruiting a Research Technician to join the Department under the supervision of Professor Henry Houlden and Professor John Hardy.

The lab is part of several world-class genome research initiatives that provide funding for this work, including, the MRC/NIHR funded genome sequencing programme, the Ataxia UK DRPLA natural history study, the non-coding genome Wellcome Trust 5-year project, and the Centre for Neuromuscular diseases. These are important international projects working with lower- and middle-income countries on the genetic analysis of neurological disorders.

Cutting edge genetic techniques will be used such as genome/exome short-read and long-read nanopore and PacBio sequencing. You will be responsible for DNA and RNA extraction from biosamples, Sanger sequencing and other genetic techniques, culturing and maintaining a range of cell models, and analysing cell lines. You will also be trained to be responsible for initial data review of samples, processing and working with the bioinformatic team for analysis. The post will also involve working closely with academics and clinicians, writing talks, and working on publications with the team and suit a motivated, ambitious, hardworking person.

The post is available immediately and is funded until 31 July 2026 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 (ion.hradmin@ucl.ac.uk).

Informal enquiries regarding the role can be addressed to Professor Henry Houlden (h.houlden@ucl.ac.uk).

For a full job description please visit UCL’s online recruitment portal (https://www.ucl.ac.uk/work-at-ucl/search-ucl-jobs) and search using vacancy reference B02-09200. 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.

You’ll have an undergraduate degree (minimum 2:1) in Biological Sciences, a background in Sanger sequencing, fragment analysis, and molecular biology, and experience with basic laboratory techniques and of working with human samples for DNA and RNA extraction and analysis. Excellent communication, interpersonal, and organisational skills are essential, as is good time management with the ability to problem-solve and work to strict objectives.

This role does not meet the eligibility requirements for a Skilled Worker Visa certificate of sponsorship under UK Visas and Immigration legislation. Therefore UCL will not be able to sponsor individuals who require right to work in the UK to carry out this role.