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- Tasks: Join us as a Senior Laboratory Research Scientist, focusing on drug discovery and crystallography.
- Company: The Francis Crick Institute is Europe's largest biomedical research hub, driving innovation in health research.
- Benefits: Enjoy 28 days leave, health support, gym discounts, and a collaborative work environment.
- Why this job: Be part of groundbreaking research that impacts human health and work with top scientists.
- Qualifications: PhD in structural biology with extensive experience in protein crystallography and drug discovery.
- Other info: We value diversity and encourage applications from all backgrounds; sponsorship available for eligible candidates.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Reports to Head: Structural Biology Science Technology Platform
This is a full-time, fixed term (three-year) position on Crick terms and conditions of employment. Working pattern: Monday – Friday.
About us
The Francis Crick Institute is Europe’s largest biomedical research institute under one roof. Our world-class scientists and staff collaborate on vital research to help prevent, diagnose and treat illnesses such as cancer, heart disease, infectious diseases and neurodegenerative conditions. The Crick is a place for collaboration, innovation and exploration across many disciplines. A space where the brightest minds can pursue big and bold ideas and discover answers to crucial scientific questions. We support them in a dynamic environment which fosters excellence with state-of-the-art infrastructure, cutting-edge facilities, and a creative and curious culture. We’ve removed traditional boundaries of departments, divisions and disciplines and instead have an open approach that supports every researcher. This gives us the freedom to take risks and carry out high-quality, pioneering research. Creating a space for discovery without boundaries helps us to turn our science into benefits for human health and the economy.
About the role
This exciting research project is a cross-Francis Crick Institute collaboration focussing on the translation of cutting-edge research led by Dr. Simon Boulton and carried out in the Double Strand Break (DSB) Metabolism Laboratory. Researchers in the DSB Metabolism Laboratory have identified several cellular processes that contribute to the alternative lengthening of telomeres (ALT) mechanism of telomere maintenance present in a sub set cancers (ALT positive cancers). This collaboration aims to translate the new ALT biology insights from the DSB Metabolism Laboratory into therapies to treat ALT positive cancers.
This position will give scientists the opportunity to gain experience of drug discovery interfaced with cutting-edge disease biology, with guidance from experienced pharmaceutical research experts and world leaders in the field of DNA Damage Repair. This work is funded through a 3-year £3M programme of work supported by the philanthropic Chris Banton fund and LifeArc. The project brings together a growing team of scientists working across several laboratories and scientific technology platforms (STPs) at the Francis Crick Institute.
What you will be doing
We are looking for a creative and highly motivated structural biologist with a strong background in crystallography and drug discovery to support early-stage drug discovery/probe development on ALT project. You will work within the Structural Biology Science Technology Platform (SB STP) which spans a variety of protein technologies (protein expression and purification), biophysics, X-ray crystallography and cryo-EM. The STP collaborates with researchers at the Crick to explore biological questions, working at the cutting edge of biomedical science in disciplines such as cancer, infectious disease, immunology, neurology, and developmental biology.
You will be responsible for all aspects of the protein structure determination experimental process; sample preparation, data collection/processing, structure determination and data presentation. The post holder is expected to contribute to on-going projects and process optimisation projects.
As a Senior Laboratory Research Scientist at the Crick, you will:
- Enable robust purification protocols of high purity, homogeneous recombinant protein samples for structural biology, biophysics and bioassay studies.
- Determine crystal structures of target protein bound to fragments/compounds.
- Train and supervise junior team members or students.
- Be responsible for maintenance of significant up-to-date knowledge of relevant literature, communication of key developments to other lab members and the institute, implementation of new techniques to own research.
About you
You will bring:
- PhD in structural biology with post-doctoral (or equivalent) experience.
- Extensive experience in molecular cloning, recombinant protein expression and automated purification using ĀKTA workstations and a range of chromatographic techniques.
- Expertise in a suite of biophysical quality control methods to ensure crystallography grade protein preparations.
- Extensive experience in protein X-ray crystallography techniques, including initial crystallisation and optimisation (using robots such as Mosquito, NT8), data collection, structure determination and structure refinement.
- Experience with standard crystallographic software packages, such as CCP4, CCP4cloud, Phenix, and Coot.
- Deep knowledge of high throughput crystallography.
What will you receive?
At the Francis Crick Institute, we value our team members and are proud to offer an extensive range of benefits to support their well-being and development:
- Visas: Applicants for this role will be eligible for sponsorship to work in the UK.
- Generous Leave: 28 days of annual leave, plus three additional days over Christmas and bank holidays.
- Pension Scheme: Defined contribution pension with employer contributions of up to 16%.
- Health & Well-being: 24/7 GP consultation services, occupational health services and mental health support programs, eye care vouchers and discounted healthcare plans.
- Work-Life Balance: Back-up care for dependents, childcare support allowance, annual leave purchase options.
- Crick Networks offering diverse groups’ support, community and inclusive social events.
- Perks: Discounted gym memberships, bike-to-work scheme, and shopping discounts, subsidised on-site restaurant and social spaces for team interaction.
- Development & Recognition: Comprehensive training, mentoring, and a pay structure with performance-linked progression.
Senior Laboratory Research Scientist (SLRS) – Crystallography/Drug Discovery employer: New Scientist
Contact Detail:
New Scientist Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Laboratory Research Scientist (SLRS) – Crystallography/Drug Discovery
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the field of structural biology and drug discovery. Attend relevant conferences or seminars where you can meet researchers from the Francis Crick Institute and discuss your interests and expertise.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest research and developments in crystallography and ALT positive cancers. Being well-versed in current literature will help you engage in meaningful conversations during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Demonstrate your hands-on experience with specific techniques mentioned in the job description, such as protein expression and purification. Be prepared to discuss your previous projects and how they relate to the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your collaborative spirit by highlighting any past experiences where you worked in multidisciplinary teams. The Crick values collaboration, so emphasising your ability to work well with others will be beneficial.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Laboratory Research Scientist (SLRS) – Crystallography/Drug Discovery
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your relevant experience in structural biology, crystallography, and drug discovery. Use specific examples from your past work that align with the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the role and the Francis Crick Institute. Discuss how your background and skills make you a perfect fit for the position, particularly in relation to the ALT project and collaboration aspects.
Highlight Relevant Skills: Emphasise your expertise in molecular cloning, protein expression, and crystallography techniques. Mention any experience with software packages like CCP4 or Phenix, as these are crucial for the role.
Showcase Collaborative Experience: Since the role involves working within a collaborative environment, provide examples of past teamwork experiences. Highlight how you contributed to group projects and supported junior team members, as this aligns with the expectations of the position.
How to prepare for a job interview at New Scientist
✨Showcase Your Expertise
Make sure to highlight your extensive experience in structural biology, particularly in crystallography and drug discovery. Be prepared to discuss specific projects where you've successfully applied these skills, as this will demonstrate your capability to contribute to the Crick's innovative research.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Current Research
Stay updated on the latest developments in telomere maintenance and ALT positive cancers. Being knowledgeable about ongoing research at the Crick Institute will not only impress your interviewers but also show your genuine interest in the role and its impact on biomedical science.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect to answer technical questions related to protein purification, crystallisation techniques, and data analysis software like CCP4 and Phenix. Brush up on your knowledge of these areas and be ready to explain your methodologies and problem-solving approaches.
✨Demonstrate Collaborative Spirit
The Crick values collaboration, so be sure to share examples of how you've worked effectively in teams. Discuss your experience in training or supervising junior members, as this aligns with the role's responsibilities and showcases your leadership potential.
