Postdoctoral Research Fellow (Bonfanti Lab)

The Bartlett School of Planning UCL; London; On-site; GBP 43,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

An established institution is seeking a motivated Postdoctoral Research Fellow to join a dynamic research team investigating the role of thymic epithelial cell diversity in autoimmunity. This exciting position offers the opportunity to work with cutting-edge genomic and gene-editing tools, contributing to groundbreaking research in adaptive immunity. The successful candidate will collaborate across institutions, utilizing state-of-the-art facilities to explore molecular regulation and its implications for immune therapies. This role is ideal for a scientist eager to develop an independent research career while making significant contributions to the field.

Benefits

41 days holiday

Additional leave purchase scheme

CARE pension scheme

Cycle to work scheme

Season ticket loans

On-site nursery

Gym access

Relocation benefits

Qualifications

• PhD or equivalent in Biology/Biomedical Sciences required.
• Significant laboratory research experience in molecular biology.

Responsibilities

• Investigate molecular mechanisms of thymic epithelial stem cell development.
• Perform high-quality research and present findings to diverse audiences.

Skills

Molecular Biology

Animal Models

RNA Sequencing

Data Analysis

Attention to Detail

Communication Skills

Teamwork

Organization

Record-Keeping

Education

PhD in Biology/Biomedical Sciences

Tools

Genomic Tools

Gene-Editing Tools

Bioinformatics

Spatial Technologies

Imaging

Sequencing

Job description

Postdoctoral Research Fellow (Bonfanti Lab)

6 days ago Be among the first 25 applicants

Ref Number B02-08709

Professional Expertise: Research and Research Support

Department: School of Life & Medical Sciences (B02)

Location: London

Working Pattern: Full time

Salary: £43,374 - £51,860

Contract Type: Fixed-term

Working Type: On site

Closing Date: 01-Jun-2025

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. The project aims to dissect the critical role of the thymus in adaptive immunity, leveraging access to unique clinical cohorts and mouse models. Funded by an MRC Research Grant, this work will explore molecular regulation of thymic neuroendocrine cells, focusing on transcription factors as master regulators of thymic epithelial cell differentiation and function, using genomic and gene-editing tools in human and mouse models.

This project offers a bridge between fundamental biology and translational insights into autoimmune diseases and immune therapies. The successful candidate will collaborate across institutions, utilizing state-of-the-art platforms at the Crick, including spatial technologies, imaging, sequencing, bioinformatics, and mouse genetic modification services.

About The Role

The post-holder will perform high-quality research under the PI’s guidance, working with internal and external collaborators. Key responsibilities include investigating molecular mechanisms of thymic epithelial stem cell development, transcriptional regulation of medullary cell fate, and the impact of regulatory disruptions on autoimmunity. The role involves molecular analyses, working with in vitro models and mouse models, and studying alterations in thymic epithelial composition in disease contexts. The candidate will also present findings to diverse audiences and contribute to collaborative scientific efforts. The initial contract is for 2 years, with potential extension based on funding and project progress. This role suits a motivated scientist eager to develop an independent research career.

About You

Applicants should have a PhD or equivalent in Biology/Biomedical Sciences or related fields, with significant laboratory research experience. Essential skills include attention to detail, molecular biology, animal models, RNA sequencing, and data analysis. Candidates must demonstrate research contributions, excellent communication skills, teamwork, organization, and record-keeping. Note: Appointment at grade 7 requires PhD completion; otherwise, initial appointment at Grade 6B with backdated salary adjustment upon PhD award.

Informal enquiries can be directed to Prof. Paola Bonfanti via [e-mail] or [e-mail]. Applications must include a supporting statement addressing the essential criteria. For queries or accessibility needs, contact [e-mail].

What We Offer

• 41 days holiday (including leave and bank holidays)
• Additional leave purchase scheme
• CARE pension scheme
• Cycle to work, season ticket loans
• Relocation, on-site nursery, gym, and other benefits

More info at https://www.ucl.ac.uk/work-at-ucl/reward-and-benefits.

Our Commitment

We value diversity and are committed to equality, encouraging applications from underrepresented groups, including ethnic minorities, disabled, LGBTQI+ individuals, and women in senior roles. Our department holds an Athena SWAN Silver award.