Ref Number
B02-10927
Professional Expertise
Research and Research Support
Department
School of Life & Medical Sciences (B02)
Location
London
Working Pattern
Part time
Salary
See advert text
Contract Type
Fixed-term
Working Type
On site
Available for Secondment
No
Closing Date
29-Jul-2026
The Department of Neuroinflammation aims to improve the lives of people affected by diseases driven by neuroinflammation, including Multiple Sclerosis and Alzheimer's Disease, by identifying, understanding, and ultimately correcting or preventing the underlying disease mechanisms. Our vision is to build on the excellence and breadth of our research through the seamless integration of basic and clinical science.
Within the Department, Dr Jonathan Lezmy's group investigates how electrical signals are generated and propagated along axons in health and disease. The group focuses on axonal excitable domains, including the axon initial segment and nodes of Ranvier, and examines how their organisation and plasticity are regulated by interactions with glial cells. Using disease models relevant to multiple sclerosis and Alzheimer's disease, the group studies how disruption of axon-glia interfaces alters axonal excitability and myelinated axon function, contributing to neural circuit dysfunction. Research combines patch-clamp electrophysiology, confocal microscopy, two-photon imaging, and computational modelling.
We are seeking a Research Assistant to support laboratory-based research within the Lezmy research group. You will assist in setting up, optimising, and carrying out experiments using a range of cellular, tissue-based, imaging, and pharmacological approaches. The work will focus on structural and molecular changes at specialised axonal domains, including the axon initial segment, nodes of Ranvier, paranodal and juxtaparanodal regions, and myelinated axons. You will support the generation, analysis, and interpretation of experimental data, with opportunities to contribute to related electrophysiological, advanced imaging, or computational approaches as appropriate.
The role will involve working closely with other members of the research group and collaborators, participating in regular lab meetings, maintaining accurate experimental records, assisting with the preparation of figures and reports, and contributing to the presentation and dissemination of research findings.
The role is available from 01 September 2026 and is funded by the European Research Council for three years in the first instance.
The post is offered part-time at 19.71 hours per week (0.54 Full Time Equivalent).
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 Jonathan Lezmy ([email protected]).
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 hold an MSc or MRes in Neuroscience or a related discipline, and have research experience in cellular neuroscience, neurodegeneration, neuroinflammation, or a related field. You will have experience with tissue-based and cellular experimental models, immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, and confocal microscopy, together with expertise in quantitative image analysis using software such as Fiji/ImageJ, MATLAB, or R.
A collaborative approach, strong problem-solving skills, and the ability to work both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary research team are also essential for this role.
This role does not meet the eligibility requirements for a Skilled Worker Visa certificate of sponsorship under UK Visas and Immigration legislation. Therefore UCL will not be able to sponsor individuals who require right to work in the UK to carry out this role.
Starting salary offered at UCL Grade 7 in the range £21,139.92 - £22,589.82 (i.e., 54% of £39,148- £41,833) per annum, inclusive of 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
- 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.
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 Gold 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.
