Research Assistant

About us

The Dementia Research Centre (DRC) is a hub for clinical research into various forms of dementia. As well as clinical studies and trials in Alzheimer’s disease and other common causes of dementia, we have particular expertise in young onset, inherited and unusual dementias. Our work focuses on identifying and understanding the disease processes that cause dementia, the factors that influence these disease processes, and how best to support people with dementia and their families.

About the role

We are seeking a Research Assistant to join a research programme dedicated to the detailed study of biomarkers in dementia.

You will participate in the organisation and analysis of the retrospective and prospective biosample collection at the DRC and will perform a central role in analysing blood samples for a large multi-centre study exploring the utility of blood biomarkers in the diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease.

You will link between the DRC, the MRC Unit for Lifelong Health and Ageing, the Dementia Research Institute Biomarker and Genetics Laboratories, the UCL/H Clinical Trials Unit, and the Neuroimmunology Clinical Laboratory at the National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery.

An honorary contract will be sought from UCLH NHS Foundation Trust, for which a DBS check will be required.

The role is available immediately and is funded by a grant from Alzheimer’s Research UK for one year 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).

For informal enquiries about the role please contact Ashvini Keshavan (a.keshavan@ucl.ac.uk).

A full job description and person specification for this role can be accessed below.

About you

You will have Honours Degree (min 2:1) in Neuroscience or a related discipline and experience with database management and performing manual laboratory assays such as ELISAs.

The ability to problem-solve, maintain professional boundaries, and deal with sensitive and confidential patient-related information in the appropriate manner is essential, as are excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

What we offer

The role is offered with salary in the range of £37,332 - £37,982 per annum including 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
• 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 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.

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.