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 Disease and translating this knowledge into developing novel therapeutic solutions that is of direct benefit to neurological disorders such as motor neurone disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and neuromuscular disease.

We are seeking Research Technician to work with Professors Henry Houlden and Dr Viorica Chelban to support an important international project including lower- and middle-income countries, as well as the UK network of atypical movement disorders, with a focus on multiple system atrophy (MSA).

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 role will also involve writing talks and working on publications with the team and suit a motivated and ambitious technologist. You will work closely with academics and clinicians, and there will be the opportunity to study for a higher degree such as a PhD part-time during this appointment.

The post is available immediately and funded by Multiple System Atrophy (MSA) Trust for one year in the first instance, with possibility of further extension.

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 at ucl.ac.uk).

Informal enquiries regarding the role can be addressed to Dr Viorica Chelban or Professor Henry Houlden (v.chelban at ucl.ac.uk or h.houlden at ucl.ac.uk).

For a full job description and to apply for this role please visit UCL’s online recruitment portal (https://www.ucl.ac.uk/work-at-ucl/search-ucl-jobs) and search using vacancy reference B02-07600.

You will hold an undergraduate degree (minimum 2:1) in Biological Sciences, Management or a related discipline (or an MSc, MD or other degree in a relevant subject), and experience of working with samples such as human blood and DNA. Excellent organisational skills and the ability to work to strict objectives is essential, as are good interpersonal skills with an aptitude to work co-operatively in a multidisciplinary setting. A background in molecular biology or cell culture techniques would be desirable.

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

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. 12% of Institute staff are actively working on EDI initiatives; visit https://www.ucl.ac.uk/ion/equality-diversity-inclusion for more information about what we’re doing. 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.

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