Laboratory Research Officer London

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.

Work in the Goehring lab aims to understand how cell polarity is established by polarity networks that transduce symmetry‑breaking cues into stable molecular asymmetries. Our work focuses on a conserved polarity network defined by the PAR (PAR‑titioning defective) proteins, which underlie polarity in diverse contexts, including defining epithelial architecture and function, driving asymmetric division of stem cells, and specifying cell fate of embryonic blastomeres.

Using the C. elegans embryo as a model, our interdisciplinary team combines genetics, quantitative imaging, in vivo biophysics, and mathematical modelling to link system‑level properties of the PAR network to molecular behaviours, thereby providing a multi‑scale model for how PAR proteins polarise cells in response to developmental cues and ultimately how polarized patterns are read out by the downstream pathways that define a cell's functional polarity.

In conjunction with a planned move to Oxford University, we are seeking a proactive individual to appoint as Laboratory Research Officer at the Francis Crick Institute. The role covers a wide range of different functions and allows for smooth continuity of lab operations, providing fundamental support to the research at the Crick. In this instance, you will support lab operations and ongoing research projects in the run‑up to the planned move in March 2027.

You will split your role between lab management and research activities. In lab management, you will support daily operations, including ordering, inventory, equipment, and coordination with teams, as well as assisting with the lab’s move to Oxford. You will also contribute to an independent research project involving genetics, CRISPR‑Cas9, or quantitative imaging, tailored to your interests and experience. The role requires a proactive attitude, strong collaboration, and willingness to take on responsibility. This is an excellent opportunity for recent graduates to gain hands‑on research experience with full training provided.

What you will be doing:

• Collaborating with other lab members on research projects.
• Providing experimental or technical support to other lab members.
• Participating in academic activities, including group meetings and journal clubs, seminars, and scientific meetings.
• Organisation and management of the laboratory, including maintaining laboratory databases, ordering of laboratory supplies, and routine maintenance of laboratory equipment.
• Liaising with Science Operations.
• Assisting coordination of stakeholders involved in the move to Oxford University.

About you:

• Significant experience working with C. elegans.
• Excellent communication and organisational skills.
• Strong attention to detail, record keeping.
• Previous research experience.
• Educated to BSc. or equivalent in Biology or a related field.
• Basic programming experience in Python (desirable).
• Experience in imaging techniques (desirable).

About Working at the Crick:

Our values: 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?

• 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.