"Research Technician"

About us

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.

About the role

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 from March 2026 and is funded funded by the Michael J. Fox Foundation for one year in the first instance.

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.

About you

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.

What we offer

As well as the exciting opportunities this role presents, we also offer great benefits; visit https://www.ucl.ac.uk/work-at-ucl/reward-and-benefits to find out more.

This appointment is subject to UCL Terms and Conditions of Service for Research and Professional Services Staff. Please visit https://www.ucl.ac.uk/human-resources/conditions-service-research-teaching-and-professional-services-staff for more information.

Customer advert reference: B02-10060