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- Tasks: Lead innovative research on Mycobacterium tuberculosis and explore drug resistance using cutting-edge techniques.
- Company: Join the Francis Crick Institute, Europe's largest biomedical research hub.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, generous leave, health support, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with excellent resources for scientific exploration and innovation.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in global health by tackling infectious diseases with pioneering research.
- Qualifications: PhD in relevant fields and strong experience in bacterial molecular genetics required.
The predicted salary is between 45500 - 45500 ÂŁ per year.
This is a full‑time, fixed term (4 years) position on Crick terms and conditions of employment.
Reports to: Eachan Johnson, Group Leader
Salary for this Role: From ÂŁ45,500 with benefits, subject to skills and experience
Application requirements:
- Please attach the following separate documents to your application in PDF format:
- a cover letter (maximum one page)
- your CV
- a description of how your specific experience and skills align with the essential criteria (maximum two pages)
- the title and the PubMed link of one scientific paper (not from our group or your previous labs, and not a review article) that has shaped your scientific perspective. Summarise why you chose this paper. Which figure was most compelling and why? (maximum 300 words)
- a short description of a project that you would like to pursue in our lab. Include references (maximum 300 words excluding references)
Application Deadline: Saturday 2nd May 2026 at 11.55pm
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 Systems Chemical Biology of Infection and Resistance Lab
The lab, which opened in January 2021 and is supported by Crick core funding, the UKRI Horizon Europe Guarantee, BBSRC and the Gates Foundation, explores how pathogenic bacteria survive and cause infection. Working at the interface of genetics, chemical biology and machine learning, the team develops small molecules to disrupt key bacterial processes and understand their impact on survival, infection and resistance. We have developed approaches to study multiple bacterial pathogens in parallel, with a primary focus on Klebsiella pneumoniae and Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The work aims to inform next‑generation antimicrobial therapies.
About the Project
We are seeking a Postdoctoral Fellow to spearhead a project exploring how Mycobacterium tuberculosis survives drug treatment. Using CRISPRi‑based genetic screens and single‑cell approaches, you will investigate how gene expression variability drives drug‑tolerant subpopulations. This role sits at the intersection of molecular genetics, chemical biology and data science, with strong scope for innovation and collaboration. Working closely with the team, you will drive experimental design, develop new methods, analyse large‑scale datasets and contribute to publications. You will also support training and help foster a collaborative lab environment.
What you’ll be doing
You will be responsible for:
- Designing experiments and research strategy in consultation with the PI
- Carrying out experiments and analysing data
- Keeping accurate and timely records of their work
- Engaging in professional development and growth
- Liaising with external collaborators
- Presenting work at Lab meetings, conferences and consortium meetings
- Drafting manuscripts for publication
About you
Essential (Minimum criteria*)
- PhD (or near completion) in biological engineering, chemistry, chemical biology, molecular biology, microbiology or a related field.
- Strong experience in bacterial molecular genetics, including CRISPRi and familiarity with high‑containment laboratory environments.
- Experience with flow cytometry, ideally within bacterial systems.
- Solid understanding of next‑generation sequencing and core bacterial processes (replication, transcription and translation).
- Experience analysing large biological datasets using Python or R.
- Ability to work both independently and collaboratively, with strong organisation, attention to detail and communication skills.
- Clear motivation to apply interdisciplinary and quantitative approaches to scientific research.
Desirable
- Experience working with Mycobacterium tuberculosis.
- Experience in high‑throughput screening.
- Experience facilitating scientific collaborations.
- Familiarity with public health challenges related to tuberculosis.
- Familiarity with high‑performance computing (HPC).
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. If you need assistance with applying (i.e., would like to apply by phone or post) please email: ruby.oluwafemi@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.
- Career support: A Post‑doc to PI programme and other career development activities
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.
Postdoctoral Fellow - Johnson Lab employer: Francis Crick Institute
Contact Detail:
Francis Crick Institute Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Postdoctoral Fellow - Johnson Lab
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former members of the Johnson Lab or similar labs. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral, which can really boost your chances.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by diving deep into the lab's recent publications and projects. Show us that you’re not just interested in the role but also genuinely excited about the research being done!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your skills align with the lab’s focus on Mycobacterium tuberculosis and CRISPRi. We want to see your passion and expertise shine through.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at the Crick.
We think you need these skills to ace Postdoctoral Fellow - Johnson Lab
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Keep it concise and focused, highlighting why you're the perfect fit for the Johnson Lab. Make sure to connect your experience with our mission and values.
Tailor Your CV: Don’t just send a generic CV! Tailor it to showcase your relevant skills and experiences that align with the essential criteria. Highlight your work with CRISPRi, flow cytometry, and any data analysis you've done using Python or R.
Choose Your Paper Wisely: When selecting the scientific paper to discuss, pick one that truly resonates with you. Summarise why it shaped your perspective and focus on the figure that caught your eye the most. This shows us your analytical thinking!
Outline Your Project Idea: For the project description, be clear and creative! Outline your vision for what you'd like to pursue in our lab, and don’t forget to include references. This is your chance to show us your innovative side!
How to prepare for a job interview at Francis Crick Institute
✨Know Your Science
Make sure you’re well-versed in the latest research related to Mycobacterium tuberculosis and CRISPRi techniques. Familiarise yourself with key papers, especially the one you’ll be discussing in your application. This will not only show your passion but also help you engage in meaningful discussions during the interview.
✨Tailor Your Project Idea
When discussing your proposed project, ensure it aligns with the lab's focus on bacterial survival and drug resistance. Be specific about your experimental design and how it could contribute to the lab’s goals. This shows that you’ve thought critically about how you can fit into their team.
✨Showcase Your Data Skills
Since the role involves analysing large datasets, be prepared to discuss your experience with Python or R. Bring examples of past projects where you successfully analysed data and how those skills can be applied to the lab’s research. This will demonstrate your technical proficiency and readiness for the role.
✨Emphasise Collaboration
The Crick values collaboration, so highlight any experiences where you’ve worked in teams or facilitated scientific partnerships. Discuss how you can contribute to a positive lab environment and support your colleagues, which is crucial for fostering innovation and success in research.