Senior Research Scientist – Santos Lab
Senior Research Scientist – Santos Lab

Senior Research Scientist – Santos Lab

London Full-Time 36000 - 60000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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Second Renaissance

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead research projects on cell division and differentiation in a dynamic lab environment.
  • Company: Join the innovative Quantitative Stem Cell Biology lab at the prestigious Francis Crick Institute.
  • Benefits: Enjoy excellent mentorship, training, and a collaborative scientific community.
  • Why this job: Be part of groundbreaking research with a focus on cell fate and development.
  • Qualifications: PhD in Life Sciences, experience in Molecular Biology and cell culture techniques required.
  • Other info: Apply early; position closes once the right candidate is found.

The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.

This is a full-time, 1-year fixed-term position on Crick terms and conditions of employment.

The Quantitative Stem Cell Biology lab, headed by Dr. Silvia Santos, is seeking a Senior Laboratory Research Scientist (SLRS). The successful candidate will investigate the spatio-temporal control of cell division and cell cycle remodelling during cellular differentiation using 2D and 3D stem cell-based models of human gastrulation. The postholder will lead a research project and contribute to collaborative projects within the lab. They will benefit from excellent mentorship and training within a vibrant, collegial scientific community at the Santos lab and the Francis Crick Institute.

The research group focuses on understanding cell decision-making. Current research includes regulatory mechanisms of cell fate specification, cell cycle remodeling during differentiation, and the interplay between metabolism, cell cycle, and cell fate. The lab emphasizes single-cell analysis and advanced live-cell imaging, using models such as mouse and human embryonic stem cells (ESC), 3D organoids, and mouse embryos. The team is multidisciplinary, diverse, and includes PhD students, postdoctoral fellows, and a principal research scientist. The lab promotes independent, creative thinking and provides excellent training and mentorship.

Key responsibilities:

  • Lead specific research projects under the supervision of the Group Leader.
  • Attend and participate in group meetings and seminars.
  • Maintain accurate records of all work.
  • Train junior colleagues as appropriate.
  • Contribute to scientific manuscript preparation.
  • Participate in the lab hESC feeding rota.
  • Foster a positive and motivating lab environment.

Key experience and competencies:

The candidate should embody the Crick values: bold, imaginative, open, dynamic, and collegial, alongside the following:

Essential qualifications, experience, and competencies:

  • PhD in a relevant Life Sciences area.
  • Extensive experience in Molecular Biology.
  • Experience with cell culture techniques.
  • Experience with imaging/microscopy.
  • Motivation and/or experience in understanding cell division in development and/or disease.
  • Excellent organizational skills, including meticulous record-keeping.
  • Strong interpersonal skills for effective collaboration.
  • Proven ability to work independently, contributing to publications.

Desirable qualifications, experience, and competencies:

  • Experience with stem cell culture, particularly hESCs/iPSCs.
  • Prior experience with image analysis.
  • Analytical mindset.
  • Track record of publishing scientific papers.

The position will close once an appropriate candidate is found. We encourage early application.

Senior Research Scientist – Santos Lab employer: Second Renaissance

The Francis Crick Institute offers an exceptional work environment for the Senior Research Scientist role, fostering a vibrant and collaborative scientific community. Employees benefit from outstanding mentorship, opportunities for professional growth, and access to cutting-edge research facilities, all while contributing to groundbreaking studies in stem cell biology. Located in the heart of London, the institute promotes a culture of creativity and innovation, making it an ideal place for those seeking meaningful and impactful careers in life sciences.
Second Renaissance

Contact Detail:

Second Renaissance Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Senior Research Scientist – Santos Lab

Tip Number 1

Familiarise yourself with the latest research in stem cell biology, particularly focusing on cell division and differentiation. This will not only help you understand the lab's work better but also allow you to engage in meaningful discussions during interviews.

Tip Number 2

Network with current or former members of the Santos Lab or similar research groups. They can provide insights into the lab culture and expectations, which can be invaluable when preparing for your interview.

Tip Number 3

Prepare to discuss your previous research experiences in detail, especially those related to molecular biology and imaging techniques. Be ready to explain how these experiences have equipped you to lead projects in a collaborative environment.

Tip Number 4

Demonstrate your alignment with the Crick values during your interactions. Show that you are bold, imaginative, open, dynamic, and collegial, as these traits are essential for thriving in their vibrant scientific community.

We think you need these skills to ace Senior Research Scientist – Santos Lab

PhD in Life Sciences
Molecular Biology Expertise
Cell Culture Techniques
Imaging and Microscopy Skills
Understanding of Cell Division Mechanisms
Organisational Skills
Meticulous Record-Keeping
Interpersonal Skills
Independent Research Capability
Scientific Manuscript Preparation
Experience with hESCs/iPSCs
Image Analysis Proficiency
Analytical Mindset
Publication Track Record
Collaborative Teamwork

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in Molecular Biology, cell culture techniques, and any previous work with imaging or microscopy. Emphasise your PhD and any publications to showcase your qualifications.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your motivation for the role and how your background aligns with the lab's focus on cell division and differentiation. Mention specific projects or experiences that demonstrate your fit for the position.

Highlight Collaborative Skills: Since the role involves working within a multidisciplinary team, be sure to mention your interpersonal skills and any previous collaborative projects. This will show your ability to contribute positively to the lab environment.

Showcase Your Research Experience: Detail your research experience, particularly any work related to stem cells or developmental biology. Include specific methodologies you have used and any significant findings or contributions to publications.

How to prepare for a job interview at Second Renaissance

Showcase Your Research Experience

Be prepared to discuss your previous research projects in detail, especially those related to cell division and differentiation. Highlight any specific techniques you've used, such as imaging or microscopy, and how they relate to the work at the Santos Lab.

Demonstrate Collaborative Spirit

Since the lab values a collegial environment, be ready to share examples of how you've successfully collaborated with others in past roles. Discuss how you fostered a positive atmosphere and contributed to team projects.

Emphasise Organisational Skills

Given the importance of meticulous record-keeping in this role, prepare to explain your methods for maintaining accurate records. You might want to mention any specific tools or systems you use to stay organised.

Align with Crick Values

Familiarise yourself with the Crick values: bold, imaginative, open, dynamic, and collegial. Think of ways to demonstrate these qualities through your experiences and how they can contribute to the lab's culture.

Senior Research Scientist – Santos Lab
Second Renaissance
Location: London
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