Research Fellow

Research Fellow

This is an exciting opportunity to join the Cortese Laboratory as a Research Fellow, contributing to the development of novel therapeutic strategies for RFC1 CANVAS and related repeat expansion disorders.

Building on recent findings demonstrating the potential of CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing to restore RFC1 expression and function, you will investigate complementary therapeutic approaches, including gene reprovision, CRISPR-based activation of endogenous RFC1 and small-molecule strategies to increase RFC1 expression. You will also develop engineered cellular models and CRISPR-based reporter systems to identify genetic and pharmacological modifiers of RFC1 expression through targeted and high-throughput screening, with promising candidates validated in patient-derived and isogenic iPSC-derived neurons.

Working closely with the ARUK UCL Drug Discovery Institute and the Genetic Therapy Accelerator Centre, you will contribute to an innovative translational research programme combining molecular and cellular biology, genome engineering and drug discovery. The role offers considerable scope to develop new experimental approaches, shape the direction of the project and advance potential therapeutic strategies for RFC1 CANVAS.

The role is available from 01 November 2026 and is funded by an ERC award for one year in the first instance.

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.

Informal enquiries regarding the role can be addressed to Professor Andrea Cortese.

A full job description and person specification for this role can be accessed below. 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.

You will have a PhD or equivalent in Molecular Biology, Neuroscience, Genetics, Cell Biology or a relevant discipline, with strong background in molecular and cellular biology, and particular expertise in CRISPR genome engineering, molecular cloning and human iPSC models.

You will also have a good publication track record and be able to independently design, optimise and troubleshoot molecular and cellular experiments, demonstrating scientific rigour, analytical thinking and problem-solving skills. You will have the ability to supervise students and junior researchers effectively and to contribute positively to a collaborative research environment, as well as excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team.

This role meets the eligibility requirements for a skilled worker certificate of sponsorship or a global talent visa under UK Visas and Immigration legislation. Therefore, UCL welcomes applications from international applicants who require a visa.

Appointment as Research Fellow is dependent upon having been awarded a PhD; if this is not the case, initial appointment will be as Research Assistant (salary £40,603 – £43,749 per annum) with appointment as Research Fellow being backdated to the date of final submission of the PhD thesis.

As well as the exciting opportunities this role presents, we also offer 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
• On-site nursery
• On-site gym
• Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption pay
• Employee assistance programme: Staff Support Service
• Discounted medical insurance

  We will consider applications to work on a part-time, flexible, and job share basis wherever possible.

  This appointment is subject to UCL Terms and Conditions of Service for Research and Professional Services Staff.

  The Institute prides itself on operating in an all-inclusive environment irrespective of personal, physical, or social characteristics. Teamwork is highly valued, individual strengths are recognised and celebrated, and we are committed to advancing the careers of everyone.

  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+ and gender diverse people in all roles, and women in Grade 9 and 10 roles.