Postdoctoral Research Fellow

**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

**Available for Secondment**

No

**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**. Leveraging access to unique clinical cohorts and mouse models, we aim to dissect the critical role of the thymus in adaptive immunity reshaping how we understand tolerance and autoimmune disease onset. The post is funded by an MRC Research Grant.

Dr Bonfanti directs an interdisciplinary team, across two main institutions. The proposed project stems from a joint collaborative effort with the University partner (UCL) and developed thanks to the Secondment programme UCL/Crick of the lead applicants who have access to all STPs and Crick scientific environment. The Crick support staff collaboratively working across disciplines to understand the fundamental biology of health and disease and the translational science team helps rapidly turning discoveries into treatments. The Crick’s Science Technology Platforms (STPs) provide researchers with access to state-of-the-art equipment and technical advice in the effective use of the technologies e.g., spatial technologies platforms, imaging, advanced sequencing, bioinformatic support and mouse genetic modification service.

**About the role**:
The post-holder will be expected to perform the highest quality research under the direction of the Principal Investigator, and to work effectively with internal and external collaborators involved in the project and other group members.

The position is available for 2 years in the first instance. The position may be extended, dependent on project success, funding, and scientific priorities. The position will suit a motivated postdoctoral scientist who enjoys working as part of a multidisciplinary team and wishes to develop their career and pursue opportunities for independent fellowships.

**About you**:
A high level of attention to detail and a proven commitment to scientific excellence are essential. Competency in molecular biology and animal models are essential. Molecular biology experience includes wet and dry lab RNA sequencing and data analysis skills.

**_ Note:_**_ Appointment at grade 7 is dependent upon having been awarded a PhD; if this is not the case, initial appointment will be at the Research Assistant Grade 6B (salary £38,607- £41,255 per annum) with payment at Grade 7 being backdated to the date of final submission of the PhD thesis._

**What we offer**:
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
- 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

**Our commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion**:
Our department holds an Athena SWAN Silver award, in recognition of our commitment and demonstrable impact in advancing gender equality.