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- Tasks: Lead innovative research on cellular signalling and cytoskeletal functions in a collaborative lab.
- Company: Join the Francis Crick Institute, Europe's largest biomedical research hub.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, generous leave, and extensive health benefits.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in cutting-edge research that advances human health.
- Qualifications: PhD in biochemistry or related field with expertise in imaging and cell biology.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with opportunities for career growth and collaboration.
The predicted salary is between 45500 - 63700 £ per year.
Salary for this Role: From £45,500 with benefits, subject to skills and experience.
Reports to: Michael Way
Closing Date: 19/Feb/2026 23.59 GMT
Details of the role:
This is a full-time fixed term position for 4 years on Crick Terms & Conditions of Employment. 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.
About the role: We are seeking a talented, highly motivated and independent post-doctoral scientist to work on a project examining the role of molecular motors (myosins and kinesins) and the cytoskeleton (actin, septin and microtubules) during vaccinia virus egress. This work will employ a combination of biochemical, structural and cellular approaches, including advanced live cell imaging and in vitro motility assays. The position is based in Michael Way’s laboratory at the Francis Crick Institute.
The Project: Investigating how viruses use the different cellular machineries and processes of their hosts during replication, assembly and spread offers a unique opportunity to obtain mechanistic insights into the regulation and function of diverse cellular processes. To this end, we use Vaccinia virus as a model together with quantitative imaging and biochemical approaches to study a variety of cellular processes, including regulation and function of the actin and microtubule cytoskeletons, as well as septins.
What you will be doing: Postdoctoral Fellows are expected to lead their own projects, contribute to other projects on a collaborative basis (both in the lab and with external collaborators) and guide PhD students in their research. The ability to work in a team is essential. You will:
- Perform live cell imaging to track cytoskeletal, motor and viral dynamics in real time.
- Perform biochemical and cell based assays to determine how virions interact with kinesins, myosins, septins and other host factors.
- Use in vitro motility assays to reconstitute and analyse motor‑driven transport of virions.
- Manipulate host cells (e.g., siRNA, CRISPR, inhibitors) to test how specific pathways, motors or cytoskeletal components affect viral movement and egress.
- Contribute to other projects on a collaborative basis.
- Guide PhD students in their research.
- Lead on projects.
About you: You will have:
- A PhD in biochemistry, cell or molecular biology.
- Good knowledge and experience in signalling and cytoskeleton.
- Technical expertise in imaging, cell biology and/or biochemistry.
- Track record of writing papers as evidenced by publications or submitted manuscripts.
- Evidence of data presentation at scientific meetings.
- Ability to work independently and also capable of interacting within a group.
- Experience in live cell imaging and image analysis (desirable).
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 are a Disability Confident: Committed employer and 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: karen.au@crick.ac.uk
Benefits: 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.
Postdoctoral Fellow - Cellular signalling and cytoskeletal function lab employer: Crick Group
Contact Detail:
Crick Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Postdoctoral Fellow - Cellular signalling and cytoskeletal function lab
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the field, attend relevant seminars, and engage with researchers at the Crick. Building relationships can open doors that applications alone can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by diving deep into the lab's research. Familiarise yourself with their recent publications and be ready to discuss how your skills can contribute to their projects. Show them you’re not just another candidate!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview or networking event, drop a quick thank-you email. It keeps you on their radar and shows your enthusiasm for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for the best chance! We want to see your application directly, so make sure you submit it there. Plus, it’s a great way to stay updated on any new opportunities that pop up.
We think you need these skills to ace Postdoctoral Fellow - Cellular signalling and cytoskeletal function lab
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Postdoctoral Fellow position. Highlight your relevant experience in cellular signalling and cytoskeletal function, and don’t forget to mention any specific techniques you’ve mastered that align with our lab's focus.
Show Your Passion: We love seeing candidates who are genuinely excited about their research. In your application, share what drives your interest in studying molecular motors and the cytoskeleton, and how you envision contributing to our projects at the Crick.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward. Use clear language and avoid jargon where possible. We want to understand your qualifications and enthusiasm without getting lost in complex terminology.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly and is considered promptly. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need there.
How to prepare for a job interview at Crick Group
✨Know Your Science
Make sure you brush up on the latest research related to cellular signalling and cytoskeletal functions. Familiarise yourself with key concepts, especially those mentioned in the job description, like myosins, kinesins, and the role of the cytoskeleton in viral egress. This will show your passion and understanding of the field.
✨Prepare Your Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare insightful questions about the lab's current projects, the team dynamics, and how they approach collaboration. This not only demonstrates your interest but also helps you gauge if the lab is the right fit for you.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Be ready to discuss your technical expertise in imaging, cell biology, and biochemistry. Bring examples of your past work, such as publications or presentations, to highlight your contributions to the field. This will help the interviewers see how you can add value to their team.
✨Emphasise Collaboration
Since teamwork is essential in this role, be prepared to share experiences where you've successfully collaborated with others. Highlight your ability to guide PhD students and contribute to group projects, showcasing your collegial spirit and leadership potential.
