Research Fellow
About us
The UK Dementia Research Institute (UK DRI) is the biggest UK initiative supporting research to fill the major knowledge gap in our basic understanding of the diseases that cause dementia.
Research from UK DRI at UCL covers the journey from the patient to the laboratory and back to the patient with improved diagnosis, biomarkers and candidate therapies put to the test.
The Hong Laboratory, based in the UK DRI at UCL, investigates glia-immune mechanisms of synapse loss in age-related neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. We study how the brain’s immune system (microglia and border-associated macrophages) interacts with glia (astrocytes) to influence neuronal synapses, as well as peripheral immune contributions such as gut-brain signaling. Our interdisciplinary work uses cutting-edge techniques including single-cell and spatial transcriptomics, proteomics, super-resolution microscopy, in vivo tracking, mouse models, and human patient tissues and iPS-derived cells.
About the role
We are seeking a motivated Research Fellow to join the Hong Lab, focusing on neuroimmune interactions along the gut–brain axis in Parkinson’s disease. You will lead a project exploring how gut-resident macrophages and T cells contribute to synucleinopathy, building on recent discoveries from the lab (De Schepper et al., Nature 2026; ; https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-025-09984-y). The role involves designing and executing experiments using in vivo models, advanced imaging, omics, and cell-based approaches, as well as analysing and disseminating data.
The role is available from 01 April 2026 and funded by a Wellcome Trust Discovery Award until 31 March 2027 in the first instance.
We are looking for a collaborative, independent, and ambitious researcher with a PhD in Neuroimmunology, Neuroscience, or Immunology, and a strong track record of publications, presentations, and research skills.
You will have demonstrated ability to design, execute, and analyse complex experiments, and to contribute to interdisciplinary projects. You are proactive, resourceful, and able to work both independently and as part of a team, with excellent communication and interpersonal skills. A commitment to high-quality research, mentoring students, and contributing to the wider scientific community is essential.
Key details
- Location UK DRI at UCL
- Salary: £43,981 to £52,586 per annum
- Lab: Dr Soyon Hong