At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a cutting-edge lab to explore cell biology and Wnt signalling using advanced techniques.
- Company: King's College London, a top research university with a vibrant academic community.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development days, and a collaborative work environment.
- Other info: Dynamic lab setting with opportunities for career growth and collaboration.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in cancer research while working with innovative technologies.
- Qualifications: PhD in relevant field and experience in cell culture, imaging, and genome editing.
The predicted salary is between 35820 - 43780 £ per year.
Department: Randall Cell & Molecular Biophysics
About Us
King's College London is one of the world's leading research-intensive universities. Within the Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, the School of Basic & Biomedical Sciences (BMBS) hosts the Randall Centre for Cell & Molecular Biophysics, an internationally leading centre for cell biology, biophysics and structural biology. The Krause Lab, which is part of the Randall Centre, uses cell biology, biochemistry and advanced imaging approaches to understand how the actin cytoskeleton controls cell signalling, membrane trafficking and cell migration.
About The Role
We are seeking a talented and motivated Research and Innovation Associate (Postdoc) to join Dr Matthias Krause's laboratory at the Randall Centre for Cell and Molecular Biophysics, King's College London, to work on a new BBSRC-funded project studying the cell biology of canonical Wnt signalling. Wnt signalling controls fundamental processes in embryonic development and adult tissue homeostasis, and its dysregulation drives many cancers, including the majority of colorectal cancers. This project will investigate how the actin cytoskeleton regulates the trafficking and activity of Wnt receptor complexes, combining molecular, cellular and imaging approaches to uncover new mechanisms that control the duration and strength of the Wnt response. You will use CRISPR genome editing, protein biochemistry, and advanced and live-cell microscopy (including TIRF, super-resolution and FRET-FLIM imaging) and cell-based functional assays to address the project's three aims, working alongside a PhD student and a dedicated project technician and in close collaboration with Co-Investigator Professor Karen Liu (Centre for Craniofacial and Regenerative Biology). You will report to Dr Matthias Krause and will be expected to contribute to experimental design, data analysis, manuscript preparation and the wider research culture of the Randall Centre. We would be looking at the earliest start of this post 1st October 2026. The end date for this post would be 30th September 2029 when this project ends. Maximum of 3 years for 1-10-26 to 30-09-29)
The role is laboratory based and 100% on campus. Research staff at King’s are entitled to at least 10 days per year (pro-rata) for professional development. This entitlement, from the Concordat to Support the Career Development of Researchers, applies to Postdocs, Research Assistants, Research and Teaching Technicians, Teaching Fellows and AEP equivalent up to and including grade 7. Visit the Centre for Research Staff Development for more information.
About You
To be successful in this role, we are looking for candidates to have the following skills and experience:
- Essential criteria
- PhD (or thesis submitted, pending award) in Cell Biology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Developmental Biology or a closely related discipline
- Demonstrable practical experience of mammalian cell culture, molecular cloning and standard protein biochemistry techniques (e.g. Western blotting, co-immunoprecipitation or in vitro binding assays)
- Experience of genome-editing approaches (e.g. CRISPR/Cas9 knockout or knock-in) and/or gene-silencing techniques (siRNA/shRNA)
- Experience with advanced or live-cell imaging techniques (e.g. TIRF, super-resolution or FRET-FLIM microscopy)
- Experience with quantitative image analysis, and evidence of the ability to design, conduct, analyse and interpret complex experiments
- Excellent written and oral communication skills, with evidence of research outputs (e.g. peer-reviewed publications, preprints or conference presentations) appropriate to career stage, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team
- Desirable criteria
- Experience of receptor endocytosis, membrane trafficking or signal transduction assays
- Knowledge of Wnt signalling and/or actin cytoskeleton regulation
- Experience of Xenopus embryology or another developmental model system
- Experience of generating and characterising stable or CRISPR-engineered cell lines
Further Information
At King’s, we believe that the diversity of our community and a culture that is welcoming, open, inclusive and collaborative, are great strengths of the university. The Equality Act of 2010 protects the rights of our students and staff and provides a framework to fulfil our duties to eliminate unlawful discrimination, harassment and victimisation and in addition, to advance equality of opportunity and foster good relations between those who share a protected characteristic and those who do not. At times, this will include balancing rights and beliefs that can feel in tension.
We are committed to free speech and to academic freedom, believing that our foundational purpose as a university, is to create spaces where a wide range of ideas, including ideas that are controversial, can be discussed and debated, and where members of our community can express lawful views without fear of intimidation, harassment or discrimination. When engaging in the robust exchange of ideas, we ask that our community is mindful of our Dignity at King’s guidance.
We ask all candidates to submit a copy of their CV, and a supporting statement, detailing how they meet the essential criteria listed in the person specification section of the job description. If we receive a strong field of candidates, we may use the desirable criteria to choose our final shortlist, so please include your evidence against these where possible.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is evolving rapidly, and we recognise its growing role in professional work. Applicants may use AI tools to support preparation of their application, for example to research the role or structure written responses. However, applications must reflect the applicant’s own work and experience. AI tools should not be used during interviews or assessment activities unless this has been agreed in advance as a reasonable adjustment. Further guidance on the use of AI in recruitment can be found here.
We reserve the right to close adverts early due to the volume of applications we receive. While the closing date may change, all adverts will close at 23:59 to allow sufficient time for applications to be submitted on that day. We encourage you to apply at the earliest opportunity to avoid disappointment as once we have closed a vacancy you will be unable to submit your application.
Research and Innovation Associate in London employer: King’s College London
King's College London is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that prioritises diversity and inclusion. Employees benefit from professional growth opportunities, competitive remuneration, and the chance to contribute to impactful research projects in the heart of Greater London, making it a rewarding environment for those passionate about advancing knowledge and innovation.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research and Innovation Associate in London
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We think you need these skills to ace Research and Innovation Associate in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Relevant Lab Skills:In the biotech world, your lab skills are paramount. Make sure your CV highlights specific techniques and equipment you’ve used, such as PCR, gel electrophoresis, or cell culture. This will give us a clear picture of what you can bring to King’s College London as a temporary teammate.
Highlight Your Research Experience:If you’ve worked on any research projects — whether during your studies or in previous positions — make sure to detail these in your application. Include the objective, your role, and what you achieved. This will help us see your potential and fit for the temporary position at King’s College London.
Keep It Concise and Relevant:Especially for a temporary role, we want to see a clear and focused application. Tailor your CV and cover letter to emphasise the qualifications and experiences that are most relevant to the biotech field and the specific role at King’s College London. This shows us you’re genuinely interested and capable.
Be Clear About Your Availability:Since it’s a temporary role, let us know right away when you’re available to start and how long you can commit. Include this in your cover letter — this kind of transparency saves us all time and helps us find the right fit quickly at King’s College London.
How to prepare for a job interview at King’s College London
✨Brush Up on Your Biotech Basics
Understanding the fundamental concepts in biotechnology is crucial. Be ready to discuss core topics like genetics, molecular biology, or bioinformatics, especially if you're asked technical questions. We suggest revisiting your coursework or recent projects to refresh your memory.
✨Demonstrate Your Adaptability
Since this is a temporary role, they’re likely looking for someone who can jump in and get up to speed quickly. Share experiences where you’ve adapted to new environments, tools, or teams in a short space of time. It shows you're ready to tackle the challenge head-on!
✨Emphasise Your Lab Experience
If you’ve got hands-on experience in lab settings, now’s the time to showcase it. Talk about specific techniques you’ve mastered, like PCR or chromatography, and any relevant safety protocols you’ve followed. These details help paint you as an effective team member from day one.
✨Be Prepared to Explain Your Passion
Hiring managers want to see your motivation, especially for a temporary position in a fast-paced field like biotechnology. Be ready to discuss what excites you about the industry, your career goals, and how this role at King’s College London aligns with them. It’s all about showing that you’re not just looking for a job, but a stepping stone in your biotech journey.
