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- Tasks: Join our team to develop cutting-edge cryo-electron microscopy techniques and capture molecular events.
- Company: The Francis Crick Institute is Europe's largest biomedical research institute, driving innovation in health research.
- Benefits: Enjoy 28 days of leave, health support, gym discounts, and a collaborative work environment.
- Other info: Flexible working hours and opportunities for professional development in a diverse workplace.
- Why this job: Be part of groundbreaking research that impacts human health and fosters creativity and collaboration.
- Qualifications: PhD in biochemistry or related field, with experience in protein biochemistry and cryo-EM.
The predicted salary is between 45700 - 64180 ÂŁ per year.
Senior Structural Biologist page is loaded
Senior Structural Biologist
Apply locations London posted on Posted 2 Days Ago job requisition id R2136
Salary for this Role:
From ÂŁ45,700 per annum annum with benefits, subject to skills and experience
Job Title:
Senior Structural Biologist
Reports to:
Radoslav Enchev
Closing Date:
22/Aug/2025 23.59 GMT
Job Description:
Job Title: Senior Structural Biologist
Please note, internally, this role is called Senior Laboratory Research Scientist – Structural Biochemist, Visual Biochemistry lab
Details of the role: 2 yr fixed term, full-time. 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 collaborate 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 is a unique and exciting opportunity to join the Visual Biochemistry Laboratory, led by Dr. Radoslav Enchev, at the forefront of time-resolved cryo-electron microscopy (trEM). This cutting-edge technique allows us to directly visualise biochemical reactions as they occur, capturing molecular events at near-atomic resolution and on millisecond time scales. As a member of our team, you will assist in developing and applying methods that capture biochemical events into detailed molecular “movies”. Our work combines state-of-the-art microfluidic devices for rapid and precise mixing and incubation of samples, spray-plunge vitrification and single-particle cryo-EM. By systematically increasing incubation times and integrating machine learning to map conformational landscapes, we generate time-lapse three-dimensional structures of binding events and enzymatic reactions, capturing intermediates that drive biological function.
This role will support both academic and industry collaborations, early-stage proof-of-concept projects, as well as ongoing trEM studies. Projects will vary in scope and duration. One representative example involves the cloning, recombinant expression and purification of Cullin-RING ligases and their substrates, followed by biochemical characterisation, time-resolved cryo-EM sample preparation, data collection and analysis.
What you will be doing
We are seeking a passionate and highly motivated scientist with a strong background in biochemistry and cryo-EM to join our dynamic team. In this role, you will play a central part in developing and applying trEM techniques across a broad spectrum of projects. The post-holder requires a collaborative mindset and an open approach to integrating insights and technologies from other disciplines.
As an Senior laboratory research scientist at the Crick, you will be involved in:
Protein Expression and Purification
- Clone and generate protein expression constructs.
- Express and purify recombinant proteins (bacterial and insect cell systems) using standard chromatographic techniques.
- Design and carry out biochemical assays to validate protein function and interactions.
Cryo-electron microscopy
- Prepare high-quality cryo-EM samples (on a Vitrobot), as well as time-resolved sample vitrification with our custom Chronobot device (training provided).
- Independently perform single-particle cryo-EM screening and data collection.
- Process single-particle cryo-EM datasets.
- Perform model building into high-resolution cryo-EM maps.
About you
The essential criteria you will bring
- A PhD (or equivalent experience) in biochemistry, structural biology or related field.
- Practical experience with protein expression, purification and in vitro protein biochemistry.
- Strong practical and theoretical knowledge of cryo-EM, single particle analysis and model building.
- Track record of writing papers as evidenced by preprints and/or publications in peer-reviewed journals.
- Ability to work flexibly, both independently and as part of a team.
- Evidence of data presentation at scientific meetings.
See the full job description here.
See more about the lab here.
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 arebold. We make space for creative, dynamic and imaginative ideas and approaches. We’re not afraid to do things differently.
- We areopen. We’re highly collaborative and interactive, and make sure our activities are visible to the outside world.
- We arecollegial. 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. Weare aDisability Confident: Committedemployer andwant to ensure that everyone can apply and be part of our recruitment processes and sowe\’llmake reasonable adjustments if you need them – just let us know when you apply. If you needassistancewith 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.
Please note you must meet the essential criteria listed within the Role Profile, to have your application reviewed.
We reserve the right to withdraw this advert at any given time due to the number of applications received.
About Us
The Francis Crick Institute is a biomedical discovery institute researching the biology underlying human health.
At the Crick, scientists and staff collaborate to stretch the very limits of what we know about how life works. Our work is helping to understand why disease develops and to translate discoveries into new ways to prevent, diagnose and treat illnesses such as cancer, heart disease, stroke, infections and neurodegenerative diseases.
The Francis Crick Institute is a charity, founded by the Medical Research Council, Cancer Research UK, Wellcome, UCL (University College London), Imperial College London and King’s College London.
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Senior Structural Biologist employer: Francis Crick Institute Ltd
Contact Detail:
Francis Crick Institute Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Structural Biologist
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest advancements in cryo-electron microscopy and time-resolved techniques. Being able to discuss recent breakthroughs or relevant publications during your interview can demonstrate your passion and knowledge in the field.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in structural biology and biochemistry, especially those who have experience with cryo-EM. Attend conferences or webinars where you can meet potential colleagues and learn more about the work being done at the Francis Crick Institute.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to showcase your collaborative skills. The role emphasises teamwork across disciplines, so think of examples from your past experiences where you successfully worked with others to achieve a common goal.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the specific projects and methodologies used in the Visual Biochemistry Laboratory. Understanding their current research focus will allow you to tailor your discussions and show how your skills align with their objectives.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Structural Biologist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in biochemistry and cryo-electron microscopy. Emphasise any specific projects or techniques that align with the role's requirements.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for structural biology and your motivation to join the Visual Biochemistry Laboratory. Mention how your skills and experiences make you a perfect fit for the team.
Highlight Publications: If you have published papers or preprints, include them in your application. This demonstrates your ability to contribute to scientific knowledge and aligns with the role's expectations.
Showcase Collaboration Skills: In your application, provide examples of past collaborative projects. The role requires a team-oriented mindset, so highlight your ability to work effectively with others across disciplines.
How to prepare for a job interview at Francis Crick Institute Ltd
✨Showcase Your Technical Skills
As a Senior Structural Biologist, it's crucial to demonstrate your expertise in biochemistry and cryo-EM. Be prepared to discuss specific techniques you've used, such as protein expression and purification methods, and how they relate to the role.
✨Prepare for Collaborative Questions
Given the collaborative nature of the Francis Crick Institute, expect questions about teamwork and interdisciplinary projects. Think of examples where you've successfully worked with others to achieve a common goal, especially in a research setting.
✨Discuss Your Research Impact
Be ready to talk about your previous research and its implications. Highlight any publications or presentations you've made, and explain how your work contributes to the broader scientific community, particularly in structural biology.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Current Projects
Research the ongoing projects at the Visual Biochemistry Laboratory. Understanding their focus on time-resolved cryo-electron microscopy will allow you to ask informed questions and show genuine interest in their work during the interview.