Research Assistant

at  University College London

ABOUT US

Biosciences is one of the world’s foremost centres for research and teaching in the biological sciences and one of the largest Divisions within UCL, undertaking a significant amount of research and teaching. The Division has a diverse portfolio addressing all areas of biology from protein interactions to cell function, organism development, genetics, population studies and the environment. Computational modelling approaches are frequently used alongside experimental research programmes and much of our research crosses traditional boundaries, including the relationship of biodiversity to the health of the planet. Activity is underpinned by high calibre science technology platforms and state of the art equipment. Educational activity includes a range of undergraduate programmes, an expanding number of Masters Programmes and a substantial number of postgraduate research students.
This is an exciting opportunity to join Dr Sandrine Géranton’s Lab in the department of Cell and Developmental Biology.
The Géranton lab sits within the Medawar Labs, a multidisciplinary group of human and basic neuroscientists, biologists, clinicians and bioengineers. We are dedicated to the understanding of the neurobiology of pain and somatosensation in health and disease. Our work spans across: (i) the life cycle – from birth and childhood, to adolescence and adulthood; (ii) the nervous system – from the periphery to the spinal cord and brain; (iii) the translational pathway – from mouse to human; (iv) disciplines – from genetics to bioengineering; (v) scales – from single cells to whole systems and (vi) clinical questions – from preterm birth to arthritis and early life adversities.

ABOUT THE ROLE

We are looking for a highly motivated Research Assistant to support our lab’s operations and lead independent experiments focused on identifying new molecular mechanisms of migraine using pre-clinical models. The role involves maintaining a genetically modified mouse colony and conducting molecular, cellular, and behavioural experiments. The ideal candidate will be well-organized, proactive, and skilled in mouse colony management, with a passion for neuroscience research and an ability to work both independently and collaboratively.
Interview Dates are scheduled for: mid-February.
This is role is an open-ended contract with a funding end date of 31/01/2028 in the first instance.
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.
A job description and person specification can be accessed at the bottom of this page.
If you have any queries about the role, please contact Dr Sandrine Géranton at sandrine.geranton@ucl.ac.uk.
If you need reasonable adjustments or a more accessible format to apply for this job online or have any queries about the application process, please contact Biosciences staffing at biosciences.staffing@ucl.ac.uk.

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 and expenses
• 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