At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a supportive community to reignite your scientific career and work on impactful research projects.
- Company: MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, a leading institute for biological research.
- Benefits: Generous salary, 40.5 days holiday, training budget, and mentoring support.
- Other info: Flexible working hours and commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Return to science with world-class scientists and contribute to groundbreaking research.
- Qualifications: PhD in a relevant subject and a break from science for at least 12 months.
The predicted salary is between 42694 - 42694 € per year.
The MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology (LMB) is a leading institute for biological research and the four research divisions – Cell Biology, Neurobiology, Protein and Nucleic Acid Chemistry (PNAC), and Structural Studies – work together as a close-knit community.
This is a training position to provide a pathway back to science for those who have, for whatever reason, stepped away from science, perhaps due to caring responsibilities for children or family members, long‑term sickness, etc. The LMB is committed to broadening the diversity of scientists within its community and this Fellowship will provide opportunities for talented scientists to return to the lab and continue on their scientific career trajectory. This position is open to those who have been away from science for a minimum of 12 months.
Working with our world‑class scientists, you will be based in an institute renowned for its excellent scientific facilities and high‑quality research. This is a three‑year training and development position suitable for you if you have recently completed your doctoral studies, or you are looking to move into a new research discipline and/or need to further develop your research skills.
The successful candidate will be assigned to a specific group, and applicants are encouraged to speak to LMB Group Leaders with whom they are interested to work with in advance of applying to help ensure a strong scientific alignment with the LMB’s scientific programme. In discussion with the Group Leader, you will make significant input into determining the direction of the project within a three‑year lifespan.
There will be opportunities to present scientific work at seminars within the laboratory and at external meetings, and to contribute to the overall preparation of research for publication, including drafting scientific papers. There is some flexibility in working hours to accommodate personal circumstances. Let us know if you have any requirements.
You will be eligible to join our defined benefit pension scheme, a holiday entitlement of 40.5 days (including bank holidays and privilege days) and a generous employee discount scheme. We are also committed to providing support for Fellows to move their career forward, including a generous training budget, and mentoring from other LMB scientists.
We are a world‑class research institute within UK Research and Innovation (UKRI). It is anticipated that interviews will take place in July 2026, with successful Fellows joining the LMB between early October and end of December 2026 if possible, but there is flexibility with this.
Closing date: Sunday 17 May 2026. Final appointments will be subject to a pre‑employment screening. We actively support equality, diversity and inclusion in all our activities, processes and culture. We encourage applications from all sections of society. The LMB particularly welcomes women, minority ethnic and disabled candidates to apply for this vacancy as they are currently under‑represented. We are a disability inclusive employer and encourage disabled people to apply for this role. You are very welcome to contact us for information about the application process and any adjustments you may require.
Career Returners Fellowship employer: MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology (LMB)
The MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology (LMB) is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive environment for those looking to return to scientific research. With a commitment to diversity, the LMB provides generous benefits including a defined benefit pension scheme, 40.5 days of holiday, and a dedicated training budget, all within a world-class research facility in Cambridge. Employees are encouraged to grow their careers through mentorship and collaboration with leading scientists, making it an ideal place for talented individuals to reintegrate into the scientific community.
Contact Detail:
MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology (LMB) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Career Returners Fellowship
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the field, especially those at the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology. A friendly chat with a Group Leader can give you insights and help you align your research interests with theirs.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your scientific knowledge and recent advancements in your area. We want to see your passion for science, so be ready to discuss how your experiences can contribute to the LMB's projects.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t shy away from showcasing your unique journey! Whether it’s caring responsibilities or a career break, share how these experiences have shaped your perspective and skills. It’s all about showing resilience and adaptability.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, keep an eye on the closing date and prepare your materials well in advance to avoid last-minute stress.
We think you need these skills to ace Career Returners Fellowship
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the Fellowship's goals. We want to see how your unique background can contribute to our community at the LMB.
Connect with Group Leaders:Before applying, reach out to LMB Group Leaders you’re interested in working with. This will not only help you understand their research better but also show us that you’re proactive and genuinely interested in the role.
Showcase Your Journey:Don’t shy away from sharing your story about stepping away from science. We value diverse experiences, so let us know how your time away has shaped your perspective and what you’re excited to bring back to the lab.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this fantastic opportunity at the LMB!
How to prepare for a job interview at MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology (LMB)
✨Know Your Science
Make sure you brush up on the latest research in your field, especially any work related to the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology. Familiarise yourself with their current projects and think about how your background aligns with their work. This will show your genuine interest and help you engage in meaningful discussions during the interview.
✨Connect with Group Leaders
Before the interview, reach out to the LMB Group Leaders whose work interests you. Having a chat with them can provide insights into their research and expectations. Plus, it demonstrates initiative and helps you tailor your responses to align with their scientific goals.
✨Highlight Your Journey
Since this fellowship is aimed at those returning to science, be prepared to discuss your journey. Share what you've learned during your time away and how it has shaped your perspective. This can turn what might seem like a gap into a unique strength that adds value to your application.
✨Prepare for Practical Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and how you approach scientific challenges. Think of examples from your past experiences where you overcame obstacles or contributed to a project. Practising these scenarios can help you articulate your thought process clearly during the interview.
