At a Glance
- Tasks: Join us as a Lightfield Specialist, training researchers and generating dynamic imaging data.
- Company: The Francis Crick Institute, Europe's largest biomedical research hub.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, health support, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with excellent career growth and diverse community.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in cutting-edge research that advances human health.
- Qualifications: PhD in relevant field and experience with lightfield microscopy.
The predicted salary is between 47080 - 47080 £ per year.
Salary for this Role: From £47,080 with benefits, subject to skills and experience.
Reports to: Head of Crick Advanced Light Microscopy and Head of Tumour Cell Biology Lab
Working pattern: This is a 2 year full-time, fixed term 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.
The Research Group: We are seeking a technically skilled Lightfield Microscopy Specialist to work at the Francis Crick Institute within the CALM STP and the Sahai lab. Working within the CALM STP and Sahai group, you will help researchers use cutting-edge 3D imaging technologies, including confocal, multi-photon, and light-sheet microscopes, making a direct contribution to world class scientific research. You will be supporting Crick scientists wanting to image thicker samples including mouse tumours, organoids, and developmental models including drosophila larvae.
Project Summary: The Lightfield Specialist will work within the CALM team and Sahai group to evaluate the use of lightfield microscopy and its implementation in the RUSH3D HD system. They will support and train users in all stages of lightfield microscopy use, including experimental design, image acquisition, and especially data reconstruction. Approximately 50% of this role will be focussed on the generation of dynamic imaging datasets relating to the tumour microenvironment and how it is modulated by therapy. The other half will involve building the lightfield user base by developing approaches to image a wide range of samples, from 3D cell culture models through to model organisms including zebrafish and fruit flies, as well as mouse tissue including intravital microscopy. Finally, the Lightfield Specialist will also work with equipment manufacturers to ensure equipment performs optimally.
What you will be doing: You will:
- Provide training and advice on the use of lightfield microscopy
- Advise on the use of reconstruction methods
- Generate and analyse high quality dynamic imaging data pertaining to the tumour microenvironment
- Work with Crick Researchers on the design of experiments involving lightfield microscopy
- Develop and optimise standard operating protocols for the use of lightfield microscopy
- Work with Crick Researchers on the analysis, interpretation, and presentation of lightfield microscopy data
- Work with CALM on the specification and acquisition of hardware and software for lightfield microscopy
- Communicate to internal and external audiences
About you: You will have:
- A PhD in an engineering, physical, or life science
- Evidence of collaboration skills
- Training and/or teaching experience
- Experience imaging thick samples, such as spheroids, organoids, embryos, etc.
- Laboratory based experience using lightfield microscopy to answer biological questions
- Desire to develop new skills, including in the design and implementation of biological experiments
- Experience with the RUSH3D HD approach to lightfield microscopy (desirable)
Minimum criteria
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'll make reasonable adjustments if you need them - just let us know when you apply.
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 programmes. 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.
Senior Laboratory Research Scientist - Lightfield Specialist in London employer: Francis Crick Institute
The Francis Crick Institute offers an exceptional environment for postdoctoral fellows, combining cutting-edge research with a strong commitment to mentorship and professional development. Located in London, the DiFrisco Lab fosters a collaborative and intellectually stimulating culture, providing access to high-performance computing, generous research funding, and opportunities for training that empower employees to grow their careers in theoretical biology and beyond.
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We think you need these skills to ace Senior Laboratory Research Scientist - Lightfield Specialist in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Research Experience:When applying for a full-time role in scientific research, make sure to emphasise your research experience prominently in your CV. Share specific projects you’ve worked on, the methodologies you used, and any significant findings. If you’ve published papers or presented at conferences, definitely include that too – it shows you’re on it in the academic world!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Research Area:Your cover letter should reflect your passion for the specific area of research at Francis Crick Institute. Mention relevant experiences that align with the organisation’s goals or projects. This shows that you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in the position – plus, it helps us see how you’d fit into the team dynamics.
Showcase Your Data Analysis Skills:In scientific research, data analysis skills are a big deal! Make sure to detail any relevant analytical tools or software you’re familiar with, like R, Python, or statistical packages. Employers are keen to know you can handle the data-heavy elements of the role, so add specific examples where you’ve used these skills effectively.
Discuss Your Future Research Goals:In your motivation section, it’s a great idea to talk about your future research goals and how they align with the work being done at Francis Crick Institute. This shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but rather a chance to contribute meaningfully to the field. We love to see applicants who are forward-thinking and enthusiastic about their research journey!
How to prepare for a job interview at Francis Crick Institute
✨Showcase Your Research Skills
In scientific research, it’s crucial to demonstrate your ability to design and conduct experiments. Come armed with examples of past projects where you've developed hypotheses, collected data, and analysed results. Be ready to discuss any specific methodologies or tools you’ve used, like PCR techniques or statistical software.
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In full-time roles, collaboration is often at the heart of scientific research. Prepare examples that show how you've successfully worked in teams, dealt with conflicts, or contributed to group projects. We want to know how you can work effectively with the team at Francis Crick Institute to drive research projects forward.
