biomedical scientist jobs

About us

The UK Dementia Research Institute (UK DRI) is a globally leading multidisciplinary research institute of over 900 staff investigating the spectrum of neurodegenerative disorders causing dementia, driving a step change in our understanding of neurodegeneration, and accelerating the discovery, development and delivery of interventions that will help diagnose, treat, and ultimately prevent dementia.

The Bourdenx Lab at the UK DRI, led by Dr Mathieu Bourdenx, focuses on how age-related loss of cellular fitness in the brain drives neurodegeneration. Using cutting-edge spatial biology and single-cell approaches, the lab maps vulnerability and resilience in ageing brains. By combining molecular cell biology with computational tools - including AI-driven hypothesis generation - we aim to uncover novel mechanisms and therapeutic targets for Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias.

About the role

We are seeking a Research Technician to provide technical support by assisting lab members with a range of experimental procedures, data analysis, and general laboratory organisation. The role involves not only applying existing laboratory methods but also contributing to their optimisation and expansion. You will work under the direct supervision of the Group Leader, but you will also be expected to work independently and contribute to the design and execution of experiments on a day-to-day basis.

There may also be opportunities to support other members of the group in administering and monitoring anaesthesia in mice and in performing surgical procedures.

The post is available immediately and is funded by the Medical Research Council until 31 December 2026 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 (ion.hradmin@ucl.ac.uk).

Informal enquiries regarding the role can be addressed to Dr Mathieu Bourdenx (email: m.bourdenx@ucl.ac.uk).

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.

About you

You will hold a BSc (or equivalent) in a relevant discipline such as Neuroscience, Physiology, Biology, Medicine, or a related field. You will have hands-on experience with histological techniques, including perfusions, cryosectioning, and tissue staining (immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence), as well as experience with in situ hybridisation and RNA biology. Experience with scientific programming (e.g., Python or R) and with imaging and image analysis using tools such as confocal microscopy, ImageJ, or Imaris is essential as is knowledge of neuroscience-related themes.

What we offer

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.

We will consider applications to work on a part-time, flexible, and job share basis wherever possible.

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