Clinical Research Fellow (ICGNMD-2)

The Department of Neuromuscular Diseases at the UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology is a leading centre for clinical and translational research in neuromuscular disorders, focused on understanding disease mechanisms and translating discoveries into improved diagnostics and therapies. The Centre for Neuromuscular Diseases (CNMD) provides specialist NHS services for over 5,000 patients annually and is one of the largest neuromuscular services in Europe, delivering nationally commissioned services and contributing extensively to clinical trials and translational research.

The department is closely integrated with UCL and the National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, providing access to multidisciplinary expertise across neurophysiology, neurogenetics, neuropathology, neuroimmunology, neuroradiology, and allied health services. Within this environment, the International Centre for Genomic Medicine in Neuromuscular Diseases (ICGNMD) leads global genomic research in neuromuscular disorders, with a focus on underrepresented populations and the discovery of novel disease-causing genes. The Neurogenetics Research Group, led by Professor Henry Houlden, undertakes research across a broad range of neurological and neuromuscular conditions, combining gene discovery with functional validation and maintaining strong national and international collaborations.

About the role

We are seeking a Clinical Research Fellow to work on a project focused on investigating the genetic causes of inherited neuromuscular diseases within a large and diverse research cohort, with the possibility to develop work towards a PhD and future clinical academic career. The role involves a combination of clinical and research activity (approximately 4:1), including patient recruitment, phenotyping, and consent within specialist neuromuscular clinics.

You will contribute to multidisciplinary clinical meetings and ongoing research studies, including natural history and interventional projects, within a highly collaborative environment at UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology and the National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery. The post offers close supervision from Dr Enrico Bugiardini and Professor Henry Houlden, with opportunities to publish, present research, and engage in national and international academic activity.

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

The post is available immediately and is funded by Wellcome and Fidelity Bermuda Foundation for one year in the first instance.

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.

About you

You will be a medically qualified doctor with completion of CMT/IMT training and MRCP (or paediatric equivalent), GMC registered with a licence to practise in the UK, and experience in clinical neurology. You will have a strong understanding of the genetic basis of inherited diseases, alongside knowledge of research methodology, research integrity, and experience of supervised research.

You will demonstrate knowledge of Good Clinical Practice, NHS clinical governance, GDPR, and clinical audit processes. You will be confident in using IT systems at an advanced level and able to organise and prioritise your workload effectively, including delegation where appropriate. You will be capable of working independently while maintaining a strong commitment to high-quality, reproducible research.

What we offer

The role is offered in the range of £51,140 - £78,670 per annum including London Allowance, on the CL, RDPS, or StR scale, dependent on NHS contract and/or stage of clinical training.

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
• On-site gym
• Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption pay
• Employee assistance programme: Staff Support Service

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

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; visitour EDI website for more information about our initiatives and priorities. The Institute also holds an Athena SWAN Gold 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.