Principal Research Fellow

UCL Eastman Dental Institute; City Of London; Hybrid; GBP 68,000 - 74,000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious research institute in London is seeking a Principal Research Fellow to lead genomic work on epilepsy. You will supervise a team, analyze clinical data, and work on translational research projects. The ideal candidate holds a PhD in a related field, has extensive bioinformatics experience, and excellent leadership skills. This role offers a competitive salary and significant benefits, including generous holiday and pension schemes. Hybrid working with at least 60% on-site is available.

Benefits

41 Days holiday

Additional annual leave purchase scheme

Defined benefit pension scheme

Cycle to work scheme

On-site nursery

On-site gym

Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption pay

Employee assistance programme

Discounted medical insurance

Qualifications

• Strong track record in computational genomics with high-impact publications.
• Extensive experience in bioinformatics research and successful grant funding.
• Experience in leading junior analysts or computational staff.

Responsibilities

• Lead work on the genomics of epilepsy within translational research.
• Oversee a team of analysts and provide strategic bioinformatics support.
• Analyze clinical and genomic data from epilepsy cohorts.

Skills

Computational genomics

Next-generation sequencing analysis

Linux environments

Bash scripting

Python programming

R programming

Collaboration skills

Education

PhD in Genetics, Bioinformatics, Biostatistics, or related discipline

Tools

Genomics England

UK Biobank

gnomAD

Job description

About the role

We are seeking a Principal Research Fellow to lead work on the genomics of epilepsy within a wider programme of translational research, including genomics and climate change, under the supervision of Professor Sanjay Sisodiya.

You will oversee a team of analysts and provide strategic bioinformatics support across multidisciplinary projects. The role involves analysing clinical and genomic data from well‑characterised epilepsy cohorts, with a focus on clinical application, in collaboration with national and international partners including Genomics England, UK Biobank, Epi25, and ENIGMA‑Epilepsy.

The role is available immediately and is funded by Epilepsy Society until 31 May in the first instance with the possibility of extension.

This role is eligible for hybrid working with a minimum of 60% of time on site.

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 ().

Informal enquiries regarding the role can be addressed to Professor Sanjay Sisodiya ().

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 PhD in Genetics, Bioinformatics, Biostatistics, Computer Science, or a closely related discipline, with a strong track record in computational genomics and next‑generation sequencing analysis. You will have extensive experience in bioinformatics research, demonstrated through high‑impact publications, successful grant funding, and leadership of junior analysts or computational staff.

Expertise in Linux environments, scripting / programming (Bash, Python, R), and genomic analysis pipelines is essential, along with hands‑on experience working with large datasets and public repositories such as Genomics England, UK Biobank, and gnomAD.

You will be a collaborative and effective leader, with a strong problem‑solving mindset, excellent interpersonal skills, and a demonstrable ability to work across multidisciplinary teams. A meticulous approach to data integration, commitment to high research standards, and willingness to continue learning are key to success in this role.

This role meets the eligibility requirements for a skilled worker certificate of sponsorship or a global talent visa under UK Visas and Immigration legislation. Therefore, UCL welcomes applications from international applicants who require a visa.

What we offer

Starting salary offered in the range £68, - £74, 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