Executive Assistant

About the institute

The Institute of Prion Diseases is part of UCL's Faculty of Brain Sciences and is recognised globally for research on prion disorders and other neurodegenerative illnesses, including Alzheimer’s disease. It includes the MRC Prion Unit and brings together laboratory and clinical research to advance understanding, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of these serious conditions.

The role is based in the refurbished UCL Courtauld Building in Fitzrovia, central London, within a collaborative setting for researchers, clinicians, students, and professional staff. The location offers strong transport connections and access to the wider amenities of a vibrant London neighbourhood.

Role overview

As Executive Assistant to the Director, you will support a senior academic and clinical leader by running a complex, fast-moving office and acting as the first point of contact for the Director’s Office. The position involves managing competing priorities, handling communications with many internal and external stakeholders, and keeping the Director’s broad schedule operating smoothly.

This is a varied, demanding, and intellectually stimulating role that calls for strong judgement, discretion, and outstanding organisation. You will work alongside senior colleagues across UCL, the NHS, government departments, research bodies, funding organisations, and overseas collaborators. The role provides substantial independence and the chance to support strategic work, high-level meetings and events, and the Institute’s wider objectives.

What the role involves

• Providing day-to-day executive support to the Director and managing a busy office environment.
• Serving as the main contact for the Director’s Office and handling incoming queries and communications.
• Coordinating multiple priorities and keeping the Director’s programme of activity organised.
• Arranging meetings, events, and functions hosted by the Director.
• Liaising with senior stakeholders across UCL, the NHS, government, research, funding, and international partner organisations.
• Supporting strategic initiatives and high-profile engagements as needed.

What we are looking for

The successful candidate must be able to represent the Director and the University professionally at all times. This requires a solid understanding of the Director’s vision, mission, and priorities, together with awareness of University and MRC policies.

Strong communication and organisational ability are essential, along with the confidence to work independently, take initiative, and stay effective in pressurised environments.

Additional information

• A full job description and person specification can be found at the bottom of the page.
• For questions about the role or if you need reasonable adjustments or an accessible application format, you can contact the HR Coordinator, Penny Petmeza.
• Colleagues at UCL work within the UCL Ways of Working framework, which sets out shared expectations around how work is carried out.

Benefits

• 41 days of holiday in total, made up of 27 annual leave days, 8 bank holidays, and 6 closure days.
• Option to buy an additional 5 days of annual leave.
• A defined benefit CARE pension scheme.
• Cycle to work support and a season ticket loan.
• Relocation support for certain posts.
• Access to a campus nursery.
• Access to a campus gym.
• Enhanced maternity, paternity, and adoption pay.
• Employee assistance through the Staff Support Service.
• Discounted medical insurance.

Equality and policy information

The department holds an Athena SWAN Bronze award in recognition of its commitment to gender equality. Applicants are encouraged to review UCL’s Equality, Diversity and Inclusion information, as well as the policies on Prevention of Bullying, Harassment and Sexual Misconduct and Personal Relationships.