At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead hands-on hardware development and prototyping for innovative biological research.
- Company: Join the Francis Crick Institute, Europe's largest biomedical research hub.
- Benefits: Enjoy 28 days leave, health support, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with excellent growth potential and diverse team culture.
- Why this job: Shape cutting-edge technology and contribute to a potential spin-out company.
- Qualifications: Relevant engineering experience and strong hands-on skills in hardware development.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Reporting to: Andrea Serio – Group Leader
Contract term: This is a full-time, fixed term (2-year) position on Crick terms and conditions of employment.
Salary for this Role: From £47,080 with benefits, subject to skills and experience
About the Serio Lab & VISIBLE
The Serio Lab brings together stem-cell biology, bioengineering, microscopy, automation and disease modelling to build next-generation experimental systems for human biology. At the centre of this work is VISIBLE – a new imaging-driven platform designed to transform how complex biological models such as organoids and engineered tissues are built, monitored and analysed. Combining live imaging, automation, environmental control and biofabrication within one modular system, VISIBLE enables researchers to interact with biological systems in entirely new ways. We are now looking for talented scientists and engineers to help take VISIBLE from an advanced academic platform into an exciting future spin‑out company.
About the role
We are seeking a Senior Laboratory Research Scientist to lead hands‑on hardware development, instrument prototyping and technical build activities across the VISIBLE platform. Working within a highly interdisciplinary team, you will develop, assemble, integrate and troubleshoot complex instrumentation spanning microscopy, robotics, motion control, sensors, electronics, environmental control, fluidics, biofabrication and automated laboratory systems. You will work closely with researchers, engineers and software developers to convert prototype designs into robust, practical and deployment‑ready systems. This role would suit a hands‑on engineer, instrumentation specialist or technical scientist who enjoys building complex systems, solving practical hardware challenges and developing innovative tools for cutting‑edge biological research.
What you’ll be doing
- Building, assembling, integrating and maintaining hardware components and instrument modules for the VISIBLE platform.
- Supporting development and troubleshooting of microscopy, robotics, motion‑control, fluidics, environmental‑control and imaging‑interface components.
- Developing custom prototype components using methods such as CAD, 3D printing, machining, fabrication and rapid prototyping.
- Supporting electronics, wiring, sensor integration, circuit development, PCB prototyping and control‑system testing where required.
- Working closely with software developers, AI specialists and researchers to resolve hardware/software integration challenges and support reliable automated workflows.
- Preparing SOPs, technical documentation, maintenance records, risk assessments, wiring diagrams, build notes and validation materials.
- Supporting demonstrations, training, deployment, maintenance and troubleshooting activities for internal and external users.
About you (Minimum Criteria: *)
You will have:
- Relevant qualification or equivalent experience in engineering, instrumentation, biomedical engineering, electrical/electronic engineering, physics, robotics or a related discipline.
- Strong hands‑on experience in hardware development, instrument build, prototyping, laboratory automation or scientific instrumentation.
- Experience assembling, troubleshooting, calibrating and maintaining complex technical systems or research instruments.
- Practical experience working with multiple types of mechanical, electrical/electronic, optomechanical, robotic, sensor‑based or motion‑control components.
- Strong organisational, troubleshooting and collaborative working skills, with the ability to work safely and systematically in an interdisciplinary research environment.
- Ability to communicate technical issues clearly and to document hardware builds, tests and maintenance processes to a high standard.
Desirable
- Experience with 3D printing, CAD, rapid prototyping, machining, custom fabrication or design‑for‑build workflows.
- Experience with electronics, wiring, sensors, circuit development, PCB fabrication, embedded control or control systems.
- Experience working with microscopy, optomechanics, robotics, live‑imaging, fluidics, biofabrication or automated laboratory systems.
- Experience integrating hardware with software, firmware, motion‑control systems or robotic automation platforms.
- Experience working in biological or live‑cell laboratory environments, including equipment training, safe operation and user support.
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.
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.
What will you receive?
- 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.
- Work-Life Balance: Back‑up care for dependents, childcare support allowance, annual leave purchase options.
- Perks: Discounted gym memberships, bike‑to‑work scheme, and shopping discounts.
- 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.
Senior Laboratory Research Scientist - Instrument Development and Prototyping 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.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Laboratory Research Scientist - Instrument Development and Prototyping
✨Get Involved in Local Research Communities
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We think you need these skills to ace Senior Laboratory Research Scientist - Instrument Development and Prototyping
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Lab Skills:In the biotechnology field, it's super important to highlight your lab experience in your CV. Be sure to mention specific techniques or instruments you've mastered (think PCR, gel electrophoresis, etc.) and any relevant projects you've worked on. This will show Francis Crick Institute that you have the hands-on skills they need.
Tailor Your Technical Skills:Make sure to emphasise your technical skills, especially those relevant to the biotechnology sector. Include any software tools or programming languages you've used, like R or Python for data analysis, which could be key for this role at Francis Crick Institute.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Since this is a full-time role, your cover letter should reflect not only your passion for biotechnology but also your long-term career ambitions. Share why you're excited about the work that Francis Crick Institute does and how you envision contributing to their goals. This shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but you're genuinely invested in this opportunity.
Include Your Papers and Projects:If you've published any papers or contributed to significant projects, mention them! These documents can boost your application and provide tangible evidence of your expertise in the biotechnology field. Don’t forget to link to any relevant publications or project summaries—this can set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Francis Crick Institute
✨Brush Up on Lab Techniques
Since you're eyeing a full-time gig in biotechnology, make sure you're well-versed in the lab techniques relevant to the role. Be ready to talk about PCR, CRISPR, or any specific methods mentioned in the job description at Francis Crick Institute. You might even be asked to demonstrate your understanding of these processes.
✨Know Your Bioinformatics Tools
Get comfortable with bioinformatics tools that are commonly used in the industry, like BLAST or Bioconductor. These are key in biotechnology, and having hands-on experience or at least familiarity can set you apart. Prepare to discuss any relevant projects you've worked on, especially if they involved data analysis or genomic research.
✨Show Your Teamwork Skills
Biotech often involves collaboration across multiple disciplines. Be ready to share stories that highlight your teamwork and communication skills, especially in research projects. Think about working with different teams at university or any internships – this is where you can show how well you fit into Francis Crick Institute's culture.
✨Research Recent Biotech Innovations
Stay updated on the latest trends and breakthroughs in biotechnology. Knowing what's happening in the field can help you engage in more meaningful discussions during your interview. Bring up recent articles or advancements that excite you, especially those related to the work being done at Francis Crick Institute. This shows your passion for the industry!
