Research Assistant

About us

Biosciences is one of the world’s foremost centres for research and teaching in the biological sciences and one of the largest Divisions within UCL, undertaking a significant amount of research and teaching. The Division has a diverse portfolio addressing all areas of biology from protein interactions to cell function, organism development, genetics, population studies and the environment. Computational modelling approaches are frequently used alongside experimental research programmes and much of our research crosses traditional boundaries, including the relationship of biodiversity to the health of the planet. Activity is underpinned by high calibre science technology platforms and state of the art equipment. Educational activity includes a range of undergraduate programmes, an expanding number of Masters Programmes and a substantial number of postgraduate research students.

This is an exciting opportunity to join the Fernandes Lab in the Department of Cell and Developmental Biology.

About the role

The research assistant will aid in a project aimed at understanding the molecular basis of neuronal commitment using Drosophila melanogaster as a model.

The project will include designing and running experiments, recording, analysing and writing up results. The RA will work as part of a team to advance lab projects and in addition contribute to general lab duties such as maintaining stocks and ordering reagents.

Interview Date(s) are scheduled for: July-August.

This role is an open-ended contract with a funding end date of 30/09/2029.

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.

A job description and person specification can be accessed at the bottom of this page.

If you have any queries about the role, please contact Vilaiwan Fernandes at

If you need reasonable adjustments or a more accessible format to apply for this job online or have any queries about the application process, please contact Biosciences staffing at .

About you

You must have at least an M.Sci or equivalent degree (completion of requirements by November 1^st, 2024) in cell biology or developmental biology. Experience working with Drosophila melanogaster and in programming (R/python) are essential.

You will design, conduct and analyse experiments using genetic tools in Drosophila melanogaster.

You will assist the team in the development, planning and delivery of research funded by the Welcome Trust.

You will be expected to produce independent and original contributions to the subject area.

In addition to developing and conducting the research, you will communicate results as scientific papers and in scientific presentations at local, national, and international conferences.

What we offer

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

• 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
• 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

Visit https://www.ucl.ac.uk/work-at-ucl/reward-and-benefits to find out more.

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