Research Assistant London, England
Job description
About us
The Research Department of Neurodegenerative Disease is recognised as internationally leading in the study of neurodegenerative diseases causing dementia and related disorders.
The Genetic Therapy Accelerator Lab, based in the Department of Neurodegenerative Disease, aims to embed translational research into the basic research and clinical activities of the UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology (ION).
About the role
We are seeking to appoint a highly motivated and talented Research Assistant to join a collaborative project working on transforming delivery, safety, and efficacy of nucleic acid therapeutics, from intracellular uptake to targeting brain, heart, and muscle (TransNAT) funded by the UK Nucleic Acid Therapy Accelerator (NATA).
You will be testing the efficacy of potentially therapeutic nucleic acids on in vitro models of Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). You will use immortalized myoblast or iPSC-derived myogenic cells and cardiomyocytes as the cellular models to test the cellular uptake and intracellular trafficking of the nucleic acid compounds, and its effect on exon-skipping in the cellular model of DMD.
The post is available from no later than 01 November 2023 and is funded by the MRC 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 ([email protected]).
Informal enquiries regarding the role can be addressed to Dr Haiyan Zhou ([email protected]). Informal enquiries regarding the centre can be addressed to Sophie Ostler ([email protected]).
A full job description and person specification for this role can be accessed below.
About you
You will have an MSc in a relevant discipline and experience in cell and molecular biology and in vitro models and methodologies relevant to the field, including, for example, cell culture of immortalized myoblast and iPSC-derived myogenic cells, RT-qPCR, immunohistochemistry, subcellular localization techniques. Excellent attention to detail and the ability to work flexibly under varied workload and pressure to meet deadlines are also required for this role.
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.
What we offer
The role is offered with salary in the range of £36,832 - £38,466 per annum including London Allowance.
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
- 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.
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.
Our commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
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. 12% of Institute staff are actively working on Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) initiatives; visit our EDI website for more information about our initiatives and priorities. The Institute also holds an Athena SWAN Silver award, in recognition of our commitment and demonstrable impact in advancing gender equality.
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.
