Postdoctoral Research Fellow (Bonfanti Lab)

Job title:

Postdoctoral Research Fellow (Bonfanti Lab)

Company:

University College London

Job description

About usApplications 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.This project will explore the molecular regulation of thymic neuroendocrine cells, focusing on key transcription factors as potential master regulators of thymic epithelial cell differentiation and function. Using cutting-edge genomic and gene-editing tools, both in human thymic epithelial cells and novel mouse models, the successful candidate will dissect the chromatin dynamics and functional impact of these cells. In collaboration with clinical partners, we will also study thymus function and organisation in patients with autoimmune syndromes and thymic tumours. This work offers a unique opportunity to bridge fundamental biology with translational insights into autoimmune pathogenesis and immune-based therapies.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.See for further background information.About the roleThe 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 successful candidate will play a key role in uncovering the molecular mechanisms that govern the development and function of thymic epithelial stem cells, with a focus on the role of transcriptional regulation in medullary cell fate decisions. Building on our recent findings, the project aims to define how specific transcriptional programs drive the differentiation of these epithelial lineages and shape the thymic microenvironment. The candidate will investigate how disruptions in these regulatory networks may impair tolerance and contribute to the onset of autoimmune disease by using in vitro models and assays as well as novel mouse models. The successful candidate will be expected to undertake independent high-quality molecular analyses in both systems. In parallel, the researcher will explore alterations in thymic epithelial composition in pathological contexts such as autoimmunity and tumours. By clarifying how altered epithelial subtypes affect immune regulation, the findings will support the development of improved diagnostic tools and selective therapeutic strategies. The successful applicant will join a collaborative, cross-disciplinary team at the interface of developmental immunology, epithelial biology, and clinical research.The successful candidate will also be expected to generate, analyse, and present scientific findings from the work undertaken to a broad range of audiences, both internal and external to UCL and the Crick.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 youThe successful applicant should have a PhD or equivalent (or soon to be awarded) in Biology/Biomedical Sciences or a related subject and have significant experience working in a research laboratory.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.Candidates must have a track record of showing important contributions to research, excellent oral and written scientific communications skills, commitment to collaboration in research and to taking a multidisciplinary approach to problem solving. They must be highly organised, able to manage their time and work to strict deadlines. They must be able to deal pleasantly and effectively with a wide range of people and keep accurate and detailed written laboratory records.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.Informal enquiries regarding the vacancy can be made by email to Prof. Paola Bonfanti or .Please see the attached job description and person specification for full details. Please also read the attached Candidate Guidance document.All applications must include a supporting statement, telling us, using examples, how you meet the essential criteria listed in the job description. Applications without a supporting statement will be rejected.If you have any queries about the role or application process, technical issues, or need reasonable adjustments or a more accessible format to apply for this job online, please contact the staffing team atWhat we offerAs 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

Visit to find out more.Our commitment to Equality, Diversity and InclusionAs 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+ people; and for our Grade 9 and 10 roles, women.Our department holds an Athena SWAN Silver award, in recognition of our commitment and demonstrable impact in advancing gender equality.Available documents

Expected salary

£38607 – 41255 per year

Location

North West London

Job date

Fri, 02 May 2025 04:23:12 GMT

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