At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead hands-on hardware development and prototyping for innovative biological research.
- Company: Join the Francis Crick Institute, Europe's largest biomedical research hub.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, generous leave, health support, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team driving innovation in biomedical research.
- Why this job: Shape the future of cutting-edge technology in a dynamic, collaborative environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in engineering, instrumentation, or related fields with strong hands-on skills.
The predicted salary is between 47080 - 47080 £ per year.
About You
We are seeking a Senior Laboratory Research Scientist to lead hands-on hardware development, instrument prototyping and technical build activities across the VISIBLE platform. Working within a highly interdisciplinary team, you will develop, assemble, integrate and troubleshoot complex instrumentation spanning microscopy, robotics, motion control, sensors, electronics, environmental control, fluidics, biofabrication and automated laboratory systems. You will work closely with researchers, engineers and software developers to convert prototype designs into robust, practical and deployment-ready systems.
This role would suit a hands-on engineer, instrumentation specialist or technical scientist who enjoys building complex systems, solving practical hardware challenges and developing innovative tools for cutting-edge biological research.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Building, assembling, integrating and maintaining hardware components and instrument modules for the VISIBLE platform.
- Supporting development and troubleshooting of microscopy, robotics, motion-control, fluidics, environmental-control and imaging-interface components.
- Developing custom prototype components using methods such as CAD, 3D printing, machining, fabrication and rapid prototyping.
- Supporting electronics, wiring, sensor integration, circuit development, PCB prototyping and control-system testing where required.
- Working closely with software developers, AI specialists and researchers to resolve hardware/software integration challenges and support reliable automated workflows.
- Preparing SOPs, technical documentation, maintenance records, risk assessments, wiring diagrams, build notes and validation materials.
- Supporting demonstrations, training, deployment, maintenance and troubleshooting activities for internal and external users.
About You
Essential:
- Relevant qualification or equivalent experience in engineering, instrumentation, biomedical engineering, electrical/electronic engineering, physics, robotics or a related discipline.
- Strong hands-on experience in hardware development, instrument build, prototyping, laboratory automation or scientific instrumentation.
- Experience assembling, troubleshooting, calibrating and maintaining complex technical systems or research instruments.
- Practical experience working with multiple types of mechanical, electrical/electronic, optomechanical, robotic, sensor-based or motion-control components.
- Strong organisational, troubleshooting and collaborative working skills, with the ability to work safely and systematically in an interdisciplinary research environment.
- Ability to communicate technical issues clearly and to document hardware builds, tests and maintenance processes to a high standard.
Desirable:
- Experience with 3D printing, CAD, rapid prototyping, machining, custom fabrication or design-for-build workflows.
- Experience with electronics, wiring, sensors, circuit development, PCB fabrication, embedded control or control systems.
- Experience working with microscopy, optomechanics, robotics, live-imaging, fluidics, biofabrication or automated laboratory systems.
- Experience integrating hardware with software, firmware, motion-control systems or robotic automation platforms.
- Experience working in biological or live-cell laboratory environments, including equipment training, safe operation and user support.
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.
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.
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 programs.
- Work-Life Balance: Back-up care for dependents, childcare support allowance, annual leave purchase options.
- Career support: A Post-doc to PI programme and other career development activities.
Senior Laboratory Research Scientist - Instrument Development and Prototyping employer: SLAS (Society for Laboratory Automation and Screening)
The Francis Crick Institute is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and collaborative work environment that fosters innovation and scientific discovery. As a Postdoctoral Project Research Scientist, you will have the unique opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research at the intersection of machine learning and biology, while benefiting from generous leave, a robust pension scheme, and extensive career development support. Located in the heart of London, the institute provides state-of-the-art facilities and a culture that values diversity and inclusion, making it an ideal place for talented scientists to thrive and grow.
Contact Details:
SLAS (Society for Laboratory Automation and Screening) Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Laboratory Research Scientist - Instrument Development and Prototyping
✨Get Involved in Local Research Communities
Tap into local biotechnology meetups and research forums. These are great places to mingle with industry professionals, share your passion, and even discover unadvertised job openings. It's all about getting your face known in the field!
✨Leverage University Alumni Networks
If you're a recent grad, don’t underestimate the power of your university’s alumni network! Reach out to alumni working in biotechnology to gather tips about job openings at companies like SLAS (Society for Laboratory Automation and Screening). You'd be surprised how willing people are to help out a fellow grad!
✨Show Off Your Projects
Curate a portfolio showcasing any research projects or internships you've completed in biotechnology. This tangible evidence of your skills can really impress employers when you chat with them at networking events or interviews. It's about making that killer first impression!
✨Stay Up-to-Date with Industry Trends
Biotech is a fast-paced field, so keeping yourself updated with the latest advancements is crucial. Attend industry conferences, webinars, or workshops to broaden your knowledge and meet potential employers. Plus, it’ll give you fantastic talking points for your interviews at places like SLAS (Society for Laboratory Automation and Screening)!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Laboratory Research Scientist - Instrument Development and Prototyping
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Lab Skills:In the biotechnology field, it's super important to highlight your lab experience in your CV. Be sure to mention specific techniques or instruments you've mastered (think PCR, gel electrophoresis, etc.) and any relevant projects you've worked on. This will show SLAS (Society for Laboratory Automation and Screening) that you have the hands-on skills they need.
Tailor Your Technical Skills:Make sure to emphasise your technical skills, especially those relevant to the biotechnology sector. Include any software tools or programming languages you've used, like R or Python for data analysis, which could be key for this role at SLAS (Society for Laboratory Automation and Screening).
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Since this is a full-time role, your cover letter should reflect not only your passion for biotechnology but also your long-term career ambitions. Share why you're excited about the work that SLAS (Society for Laboratory Automation and Screening) does and how you envision contributing to their goals. This shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but you're genuinely invested in this opportunity.
Include Your Papers and Projects:If you've published any papers or contributed to significant projects, mention them! These documents can boost your application and provide tangible evidence of your expertise in the biotechnology field. Don’t forget to link to any relevant publications or project summaries—this can set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at SLAS (Society for Laboratory Automation and Screening)
✨Brush Up on Lab Techniques
Since you're eyeing a full-time gig in biotechnology, make sure you're well-versed in the lab techniques relevant to the role. Be ready to talk about PCR, CRISPR, or any specific methods mentioned in the job description at SLAS (Society for Laboratory Automation and Screening). You might even be asked to demonstrate your understanding of these processes.
✨Know Your Bioinformatics Tools
Get comfortable with bioinformatics tools that are commonly used in the industry, like BLAST or Bioconductor. These are key in biotechnology, and having hands-on experience or at least familiarity can set you apart. Prepare to discuss any relevant projects you've worked on, especially if they involved data analysis or genomic research.
✨Show Your Teamwork Skills
Biotech often involves collaboration across multiple disciplines. Be ready to share stories that highlight your teamwork and communication skills, especially in research projects. Think about working with different teams at university or any internships – this is where you can show how well you fit into SLAS (Society for Laboratory Automation and Screening)'s culture.
✨Research Recent Biotech Innovations
Stay updated on the latest trends and breakthroughs in biotechnology. Knowing what's happening in the field can help you engage in more meaningful discussions during your interview. Bring up recent articles or advancements that excite you, especially those related to the work being done at SLAS (Society for Laboratory Automation and Screening). This shows your passion for the industry!
