At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative research projects and guide PhD students in a collaborative lab environment.
- Company: Join the Francis Crick Institute, Europe's largest biomedical research hub, dedicated to groundbreaking health research.
- Benefits: Enjoy 28 days annual leave, health support, gym discounts, and a generous pension scheme.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team tackling major health challenges with cutting-edge science and a creative culture.
- Qualifications: PhD or nearing completion in biomedical sciences; experience in molecular biology and cell culture required.
- Other info: Open to diverse applicants; sponsorship available for work in the UK.
The predicted salary is between 45500 - 45500 £ per year.
Details of the role: 4 yr FTC, full-time. Working pattern: Monday – Friday.
Salary: From £45,500 pa with benefits, subject to skills and experience.
Application closing date: No closing date 23:59 GMT.
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 collaborate 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 role… The Genetic Mechanisms of Disease lab is a dynamic, supportive and highly collaborative research group which studies how common genetic variation influences the human immune system and how this can predispose to autoimmune and inflammatory disease. A strong background in human immune cell isolation and culture, CRISPR editing and in vitro assays of immune function are essential. The current project, which is funded via the MSD/Crick Research Alliance, aims to elucidate the biology responsible for a genetic association with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) which is located on chromosome 5. The associated locus lies within an uncharacterised long non-coding (lnc)RNA and exhibits strong activation-dependent enhancer activity in inflammatory macrophages. The aims of the project are to identify the gene(s) that may be regulated by this dynamic enhancer, investigate whether the lncRNA has RNA-dependent functions and characterise the molecular and cellular mechanisms by which this genetic variation contributes to IBD. Our goal is to not only resolve molecular and cellular mechanisms of disease, but to identify new opportunities for therapy.
What you will be doing… As a Postdoctoral Fellow at the Crick, you will:
- Lead your own research projects
- Contribute to other research projects both internally and with external collaborators
- Guide PhD students in their research
About you… The essential criteria you will bring…
- PhD, or in the final stages of PhD completion, in a relevant biomedical science (including but not limited to: immunology, molecular biology, cell biology, biochemistry)
- Experience in molecular biology, mammalian cell culture and flow cytometry
- Knowledge of human genetics, immunology and gene regulation.
- Experience of working independently, designing experiments and adopting new techniques
- Track record of scientific writing, evidenced by first author publications or submitted manuscripts in refereed journals
- Ability to work independently and as part of a small team
- Excellent organisational and communication skills
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 you will be asked as part of the process if you wish to apply under the scheme. We will make reasonable adjustments if you need them. If you need assistance with applying (i.e., would like to apply by phone or post) please email: people@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.
- Development & Recognition: Comprehensive training, mentoring, and a pay structure based on skills and experience.
Postdoctoral Fellow employer: New Scientist
Contact Detail:
New Scientist Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Postdoctoral Fellow
✨Tip Number 1
Network with current and former Postdoctoral Fellows at the Francis Crick Institute. Reach out on platforms like LinkedIn to learn about their experiences and gather insights on the application process and work culture.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest research published by the Genetic Mechanisms of Disease lab. Understanding their recent projects will help you tailor your discussions during interviews and demonstrate your genuine interest in their work.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your previous research in detail, especially any experience related to human immune cell isolation, CRISPR editing, or in vitro assays. Be ready to explain how your skills can contribute to the ongoing projects at the Crick.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your collaborative spirit by highlighting past experiences where you worked effectively in a team. The Crick values collegiality, so emphasising your ability to guide PhD students and collaborate with external partners will be beneficial.
We think you need these skills to ace Postdoctoral Fellow
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your relevant experience in biomedical sciences, particularly in immunology, molecular biology, and cell culture. Emphasise any specific projects or techniques you've worked on that align with the role.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the position and the research being conducted at the Francis Crick Institute. Mention how your background and skills make you a perfect fit for the Genetic Mechanisms of Disease lab.
Highlight Your Publications: Since a track record of scientific writing is essential, include details of your first author publications or submitted manuscripts. This will demonstrate your ability to contribute to the scientific community and your expertise in the field.
Showcase Collaboration Skills: The role requires collaboration with both internal and external teams. Provide examples in your application of how you've successfully worked in teams or guided PhD students in their research, showcasing your communication and organisational skills.
How to prepare for a job interview at New Scientist
✨Showcase Your Research Experience
Be prepared to discuss your previous research projects in detail, especially those related to immunology, molecular biology, and gene regulation. Highlight any specific techniques you've mastered, such as CRISPR editing or flow cytometry, as these are crucial for the role.
✨Demonstrate Collaboration Skills
Since the Crick values collaboration, share examples of how you've successfully worked with others in a research setting. Discuss any experiences guiding PhD students or collaborating with external partners to show that you can thrive in a team-oriented environment.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect to face technical questions related to your field. Brush up on the latest advancements in genetic mechanisms of disease and be ready to discuss how your expertise aligns with the current project on inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
✨Express Your Passion for Science
Convey your enthusiasm for biomedical research and the mission of the Francis Crick Institute. Share what drives you in your scientific pursuits and how you envision contributing to their innovative research culture.