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.



We are generously funded by the Wellcome Trust to investigate how developmental processes coordinated to build functional circuitry.

About The Role

The main purpose of this position is to aid in a project aimed at identifying novel glia-neuron communication by analysing single cell RNA sequencing datasets for intercellular signalling components (using R). Bioinformatically identified gene expression patterns will then be validated in vivo using a variety of approaches including fluorescent in situ hybridisation and immunohistochemistry. Finally, these signals will be disrupted in a cell type-specific manner and various phenotypes will be evaluated.



We are looking for a candidate with strong programming skills (R/python), who is also interested in gaining experience with wet lab work.



The lab is a fun and friendly environment and all former RAs have gone on to PhDs and are co-authors on manuscripts from the lab.



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



This role is an open-ended contract with a funding end date of 31/08/2024 in the first instance with the possibility of renewal.



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 Vilaiwan.fernandes@ucl.ac.uk



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 biosciences.staffing@ucl.ac.uk.

About you

You must have at least a BSc or Masters in a relevant subject area. Experience in programming (R/python) is essential.



You will be an active member of a multidisciplinary research team seeking to combine bioinformatic analysis, imaging and genetic manipulations to uncover novel glia-neuron communication in the developing and adult brain.



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 Wellcome 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 (including 27 days annual leave 8 bank holiday and 6 closure days)

Defined benefit career average revalued earnings pension scheme (CARE)

Cycle to work scheme and season ticket loan

On-Site nursery

On-site gym

Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption pay

Employee assistance programme: Staff Support Service

Discounted medical insurance

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.



These include people from Black, Asian and ethnic minority backgrounds; disabled people; LGBTQI+ people; and for our Grade 9 and 10 roles, women.



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