Postdoctoral Fellow - Structural Biology and Cytoskeletal Remodeling - Chaaban Lab in London

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.

We are seeking a curious and motivated postdoctoral researcher to join the Cytoskeletal Coordination Laboratory, opening in January 2027 at the Francis Crick Institute. Our lab investigates how molecular machines build, remodel and dismantle the cytoskeleton. We are particularly interested in how these activities are coordinated during cell division, when cells must reorganise their internal architecture and ultimately separate into two daughter cells. We combine biochemistry, structural biology and quantitative microscopy to connect molecular organisation with biological function. As an early member of the lab, you will have the opportunity to shape the research programme, establish experimental approaches and contribute to an open and supportive research environment. You will work closely with Sami while developing your own ideas and scientific independence, supported by the Crick’s scientific platforms and research community.

The successful candidate will investigate how protein machines remodel microtubules. The project will address two linked questions: how these complexes assemble and engage microtubules to couple chemical energy to structural changes, and how interactions with partner proteins regulate their activity. Cryo-electron microscopy will be a major component of the project, alongside reconstitution with purified proteins and fluorescence microscopy. By determining structures of complexes in different functional states and testing the resulting predictions experimentally, you will help explain how molecular interactions drive microtubule remodelling. There will be scope to develop complementary approaches and connect these mechanisms to their functions in cells.

What you will be doing:

• Developing and leading a research project investigating the molecular mechanisms of cytoskeletal remodeling.
• Producing and characterizing recombinant proteins and protein complexes, and establishing assays to measure their interactions and activity.
• Using cryo-EM and computational image analysis to investigate the organisation and conformational states of molecular assemblies.
• Integrating structural findings with biochemical and fluorescence microscopy experiments to test mechanistic hypotheses.
• Analysing and documenting experiments rigorously, presenting findings at scientific meetings, and contributing to manuscripts and publications.

About you

You will have:

• A PhD, or a PhD in the final stages of submission, in structural biology, biochemistry, molecular biology, biophysics, or a related discipline.
• Experimental expertise in protein biochemistry and cryo-EM, including sample preparation and data collection.
• Strong interest in combining these approaches with quantitative fluorescence microscopy.
• Experience designing experiments, applying appropriate statistical analysis, critically interpreting data and troubleshooting research problems.
• Evidence of scientific initiative and the ability to develop and pursue research questions independently.
• Evidence of communicating research clearly through scientific writing and presentations.
• A collaborative approach to research and the ability to work effectively with colleagues.
• Experience in single-particle image processing and model building. (Desirable)

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.

Please note you must meet the essential criteria listed within the Role Profile, to have your application reviewed.