ABOUT US

Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Fellow (Band 7) position in the UCL Division of Infection and Immunity in the research team led by Prof. Paola Bonfanti currently based at the Francis Crick Institute.
The Bonfanti lab is seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to join an exciting project investigating the role of thymic epithelial cell diversity in central tolerance and autoimmunity. Leveraging access to unique clinical cohorts and mouse models, we aim to dissect the critical role of the thymus in adaptive immunity reshaping how we understand tolerance and autoimmune disease onset. The post is funded by an MRC Research Grant.
This project will explore the molecular regulation of thymic neuroendocrine cells, focusing on key transcription factors as potential master regulators of thymic epithelial cell differentiation and function. Using cutting-edge genomic and gene-editing tools, both in human thymic epithelial cells and novel mouse models, the successful candidate will dissect the chromatin dynamics and functional impact of these cells. In collaboration with clinical partners, we will also study thymus function and organisation in patients with autoimmune syndromes and thymic tumours. This work offers a unique opportunity to bridge fundamental biology with translational insights into autoimmune pathogenesis and immune-based therapies.
Dr Bonfanti directs an interdisciplinary team, across two main institutions. The proposed project stems from a joint collaborative effort with the University partner (UCL) and developed thanks to the Secondment programme UCL/Crick of the lead applicants who have access to all STPs and Crick scientific environment. The Crick support staff collaboratively working across disciplines to understand the fundamental biology of health and disease and the translational science team helps rapidly turning discoveries into treatments. The Crick’s Science Technology Platforms (STPs) provide researchers with access to state-of-the-art equipment and technical advice in the effective use of the technologies e.g., spatial technologies platforms, imaging, advanced sequencing, bioinformatic support and mouse genetic modification service.
See https://www.crick.ac.uk/research/labs/paola-bonfanti for further background information.

ALL APPLICATIONS MUST INCLUDE A SUPPORTING STATEMENT, TELLING US, USING EXAMPLES, HOW YOU MEET THE ESSENTIAL CRITERIA LISTED IN THE JOB DESCRIPTION. APPLICATIONS WITHOUT A SUPPORTING STATEMENT WILL BE REJECTED.

If you have any queries about the role or application process, technical issues, or need reasonable adjustments or a more accessible format to apply for this job online, please contact the staffing team at hr.ii@ucl.ac.uk.

ABOUT THE ROLE

The post-holder will be expected to perform the highest quality research under the direction of the Principal Investigator, and to work effectively with internal and external collaborators involved in the project and other group members.
The successful candidate will play a key role in uncovering the molecular mechanisms that govern the development and function of thymic epithelial stem cells, with a focus on the role of transcriptional regulation in medullary cell fate decisions. Building on our recent findings, the project aims to define how specific transcriptional programs drive the differentiation of these epithelial lineages and shape the thymic microenvironment. The candidate will investigate how disruptions in these regulatory networks may impair tolerance and contribute to the onset of autoimmune disease by using in vitro models and assays as well as novel mouse models. The successful candidate will be expected to undertake independent high-quality molecular analyses in both systems. In parallel, the researcher will explore alterations in thymic epithelial composition in pathological contexts such as autoimmunity and tumours. By clarifying how altered epithelial subtypes affect immune regulation, the findings will support the development of improved diagnostic tools and selective therapeutic strategies. The successful applicant will join a collaborative, cross-disciplinary team at the interface of developmental immunology, epithelial biology, and clinical research.
The successful candidate will also be expected to generate, analyse, and present scientific findings from the work undertaken to a broad range of audiences, both internal and external to UCL and the Crick.
The position is available for 2 years in the first instance. The position may be extended, dependent on project success, funding, and scientific priorities. The position will suit a motivated postdoctoral scientist who enjoys working as part of a multidisciplinary team and wishes to develop their career and pursue opportunities for independent fellowships.

As well as the exciting opportunities this role presents, we also offer some 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 insuranc