Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead exciting research projects in a collaborative lab environment.
- Company: Join the Francis Crick Institute, Europe's largest biomedical research hub.
- Benefits: Enjoy generous leave, health support, and perks like gym discounts and childcare assistance.
- Why this job: Be part of groundbreaking research that impacts human health and fosters innovation.
- Qualifications: PhD in relevant fields with expertise in organic synthesis or cell culture required.
- Other info: Diversity and inclusion are core values; all backgrounds encouraged to apply.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Reporting to: Charlie McTernan
Contact term: This is a full-time, fixed term [24 months] position on Crick terms and conditions of employment.
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… We are looking for a skilled organic chemist or chemical biologist to join the team and help manage our lab as well as leading projects within the lab, either as an SLRS, or with appropriate experience, as a PLRS. This is an exciting opportunity to join a vibrant and diverse team of 14 chemists and chemical biologists, working at a leading biological research institute. If you have a PhD in any of the following fields Synthetic Organic Chemistry, Supramolecular Chemistry, Chemical Biology, or Solid-Phase Peptide Synthesis, and have experience in organic synthesis and/or cell culture, this would be a great opportunity for you. The projects you will be working on will focus either synthetic chemistry or work at the boundary of chemical synthesis and chemical biology. You will also be key in helping the PI allocate resource and space, organise equipment maintenance, manage relationships with Contract Research Organisations and Science and Technology Platforms, lead on health and safety within the group, and coordinate grant writing. Collaboration is key at the Crick and will this role there is opportunity to work across group and with different technology platforms. You will be supported to develop new skills at the interface of chemistry with biology, with support from world-leading Science and Technology Platform scientists.
What you will be doing As a SLRS/PLRS at the Crick, you will:
- Investigating research questions and developing specific research project(s) under guidance from Group Leader
- Providing specialist advice and guidance, sharing knowledge and expertise for the benefit of others
- Providing a significant contribution to the production of research papers for publication, presenting findings to group members and other internal and external audiences
- Develop ideas for generating research income, and present detailed research proposals
- Act as a source of information and advice to other members of the group on scientific protocols and experimental techniques.
- Have a pro-active approach to the management of health and safety protocols and play a leading role within the group in ensuring compliance with safety policy.
About you… You will bring…. PhD in Synthetic Organic Chemistry and/or Supramolecular Chemistry and/or Chemical Biology and/or Cell Biology and/or Solid-Phase Peptide Synthesis or related field. Expertise in organic synthesis and/or cell culture and assay design. Track record of writing papers as evidenced by publications or submitted manuscripts in referred journals. Evidence of data presentation at scientific meetings. Show an ability to work supportively in a laboratory environment. Demonstrate ability to assist in laboratory management and grant writing. Evidence of ability to supervise and educate junior co-workers and take part in joint projects.
About Working at the Crick… Our values Everyone who works at the Crick has a valuable role to play in advancing the Crick’s mission and shaping our culture! We are bold. We make space for creative, dynamic and imaginative ideas and approaches. We’re not afraid to do things differently. We are open. We’re highly collaborative and interactive, and make sure our activities are visible to the outside world. We are collegial. We show respect for one another, work cooperatively and support the wider community. At the Francis Crick Institute, we believe that diversity and inclusion are essential to driving innovation and scientific discovery. We are committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to succeed, regardless of their background, identity, or personal circumstances. We actively encourage applications from individuals of all genders, ethnicities, abilities, and experiences. We want to ensure that everyone can apply and be part of our recruitment processes and so we will make reasonable adjustments if you need them - just let us know when you apply. If you need assistance with applying (i.e., would like to apply by phone or post) please email: weronika.kucala@crick.ac.uk
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.
Contact Detail:
New Scientist Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior/ Principal Laboratory Research Scientist
✨Tip Number 1
Network with current and former employees of the Francis Crick Institute. Engaging with them on platforms like LinkedIn can provide you with insider knowledge about the lab culture and ongoing projects, which can be invaluable during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest research and publications from the Crick Institute, especially in areas related to synthetic organic chemistry and chemical biology. This will not only help you understand their work better but also allow you to discuss relevant topics during your interview.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to demonstrate your collaborative skills. Given the emphasis on teamwork at the Crick, think of specific examples where you've successfully worked in a team setting, particularly in a laboratory environment, and be ready to share these experiences.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your leadership potential by discussing any previous experience in managing projects or mentoring junior colleagues. Highlighting your ability to lead and support others will align well with the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior/ Principal Laboratory Research Scientist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your PhD and relevant experience in Synthetic Organic Chemistry, Chemical Biology, or related fields. Emphasise your expertise in organic synthesis and cell culture, as well as any publications or presentations you've contributed to.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the role at the Francis Crick Institute. Discuss how your background aligns with their mission and values, and mention specific projects or experiences that demonstrate your ability to contribute to their research goals.
Highlight Collaboration Skills: Since collaboration is key at the Crick, be sure to include examples of how you've successfully worked in teams or led projects. Mention any experience you have in managing relationships with external organisations or coordinating grant writing.
Showcase Your Research Impact: Detail your contributions to research papers and presentations. Highlight any significant findings or innovations you've been part of, and explain how these experiences prepare you for the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
How to prepare for a job interview at New Scientist
✨Showcase Your Research Experience
Be prepared to discuss your previous research projects in detail. Highlight your contributions, methodologies used, and any publications that resulted from your work. This will demonstrate your expertise and ability to contribute to the Crick's innovative environment.
✨Emphasise Collaboration Skills
Since collaboration is key at the Crick, be ready to share examples of how you've successfully worked in teams. Discuss how you’ve supported colleagues, managed group dynamics, and contributed to joint projects, showcasing your collegial approach.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect technical questions related to organic synthesis, cell culture, and assay design. Brush up on your knowledge in these areas and be ready to explain complex concepts clearly, as this will reflect your depth of understanding and communication skills.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Potential
As a Senior/Principal Laboratory Research Scientist, you'll need to show your ability to lead and mentor others. Prepare to discuss any experience you have in supervising junior staff, managing lab resources, or leading health and safety initiatives.
