Research Fellow

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. 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. Activity is underpinned by high-calibre science technology platforms and state-of-the-art equipment.

This is an exciting opportunity to join the research group of Professor Jürg Bähler as a Postdoctoral Researcher. We investigate the roles of conserved but unknown genes during cellular quiescence and ageing using fission yeast and turquoise killifish as model systems. We apply diverse genetic/genomic, cell biology, molecular/biochemical, and computational approaches to analyse gene function and cellular regulation, complex ageing-associated processes, and the relationships between the genotype, phenotype, and environment. In 2025, the Bähler laboratory will relocate to the Francis Crick Institute, which features an exceptional research environment with state-of-the-art facilities.

About the role

You will make independent and original contributions to developing and delivering a substantial research programme funded by a Wellcome Discovery Award. You will apply large-scale genetic assays, functional profiling, and systemic/computational approaches to examine the roles of conserved yet unstudied proteins, with an emphasis on cellular quiescence and ageing. You will disseminate the findings as scientific papers, via community resources, through interaction with experts, and in conference presentations.

This role is an open-ended contract with a funding end date of 31/07/2029 in the first instance.

Appointment at Grade 7 is dependent upon having been awarded a PhD; if this is not the case, initial appointment will be at Grade 6B with payment at Grade 7 being backdated to the date of final submission of the PhD Thesis.

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. For informal questions about the role, please contact Jürg Bähler. 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 us.

Job Ref: B02-08058

Closing Date: 12/01/2025 – 23:59 (UK time)

About you

You are curious, open-minded, and highly motivated to pursue discovery-driven research into functional relationships between genes and biological processes. You have a PhD degree (or PhD exam planned at the time of application), a strong research track record, and expertise in relevant areas (e.g., yeast genetics/genomics, large-scale assays, computational data mining, genetic interactions, quantitative traits).

What we offer

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

Our commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

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.

You can read more about our commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion here: https://www.ucl.ac.uk/equality-diversity-inclusion/

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