Research Fellow – Neural Circuit Dysfunction & Alzheimer’s Disease(UK Visa Sponsorship)

About Us The UK Dementia Research Institute (UK DRI) represents the UK’s largest coordinated investment dedicated to understanding the biology underlying dementia. At UCL, the Institute is uniquely positioned to bridge laboratory discoveries with clinical application, supporting research that spans patient-facing studies, mechanistic biology, biomarker development and therapeutic innovation. The Busche Laboratory, based within the UK DRI at UCL, offers a highly collaborative research setting. The team works closely with other DRI centres, UCL investigators and leading international partners to tackle some of the most urgent scientific challenges in neurodegeneration. About the Role We are looking for a talented and motivated Research Fellow to join a pioneering project focused on uncovering—and ultimately correcting—the neuronal and circuit-level malfunctions that arise early in Alzheimer’s disease. The project aims to map how subtle, cell-type-specific molecular changes lead to widespread network dysfunction in mouse models. You will apply a combination of spatial omics technologies alongside state-of-the-art methods for measuring neuronal activity, including in vivo two-photon calcium imaging. Both experimental and computational approaches will be used to explore the mechanisms responsible for circuit breakdown. This position provides an exceptional opportunity to conduct independent research in a dynamic, forward-thinking scientific environment, working with cutting-edge tools and highly interdisciplinary teams. The post starts 1 February 2026 and is funded by the UK Dementia Research Institute until 31 January 2028 in the first instance. Applicants should upload: A current CV Completed online application form A supporting statement or cover letter addressing essential and desirable criteria Additional documents beyond these will not be reviewed. About You You should hold a PhD in neuroscience, engineering, computer science, physics, mathematics or a closely aligned discipline. The role requires hands-on experience with spatial transcriptomics and downstream analytical workflows, as well as competence in a range of molecular and imaging techniques such as: AAV vector design and validation Immunostaining and confocal microscopy Single-cell RNA sequencing Quantitative in situ hybridisation Bioinformatics approaches relevant to cellular and spatial data Rodent stereotactic surgery Strong communication skills, the ability to collaborate effectively, and an enthusiasm for interdisciplinary research are essential. This post meets the eligibility requirements for both the Skilled Worker Visa and the Global Talent Visa, and applicants requiring sponsorship are welcome. What We Offer Candidates who have not yet been formally awarded their PhD will be appointed at Research Assistant level (salary £39,807–£41,833), with automatic backdated re-grading to Research Fellow upon final thesis submission. Additional benefits include: 41 days’ annual leave (27 days + bank holidays + closure days) Option to purchase 5 additional days of leave CARE defined-benefit pension Cycle-to-work and season ticket loan schemes Support with immigration costs Relocation assistance for eligible posts On-site gym and nursery facilities Enhanced parental leave Access to the Staff Support Service Discounted private medical insurance Flexible working, part-time arrangements and job-share requests are considered where practicable. This appointment is subject to UCL’s Terms and Conditions for Research and Professional Services Staff. Equality, Diversity and Inclusion We strive to foster an inclusive, respectful and supportive research culture. The Institute holds an Athena SWAN Silver Award in recognition of its work to promote gender equality. More than 12% of staff actively contribute to EDI initiatives, championing fairness and equal opportunity across all career levels. We particularly encourage applications from individuals underrepresented in our workforce, including people from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds, disabled researchers, LGBTQI+ and gender-diverse individuals, and women applying for senior academic roles. At UCL, we believe diversity fuels innovation—and we aim to reflect the global community we serve.