At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead groundbreaking cancer research and design innovative experiments in a collaborative lab environment.
- Company: Join the Li Lab at the prestigious Crick Institute, focused on cancer-neuroscience interactions.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, generous leave, pension scheme, and comprehensive health support.
- Other info: Access to professional development, diverse community support, and excellent work-life balance.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in cancer treatment while advancing your career in a dynamic research setting.
- Qualifications: PhD in cancer biology or related fields with hands-on experience in animal models.
The predicted salary is between 47500 - 47500 ÂŁ per year.
This is a full-time, fixed term (4 years) position on Crick terms and conditions of employment.
Salary for this Role: From ÂŁ47,500 with benefits, subject to skills and experience.
Application Deadline: Thursday 11th June 2026 at 11.55pm.
About the Cancer‑Neuroscience Lab
The Li lab explores how the nervous and immune systems interact in cancer and how these insights could unlock approaches to treatment. Using advanced mouse models and tissue culture systems, the team investigates how neuro‑immune crosstalk shapes cancer development and progression, with a focus on how the nervous system influences immune responses in tumours.
About the Project
We are seeking a Postdoctoral Fellow to spearhead a project tackling one of the major challenges in cancer research: What are the roles of the neuro‑immune interactions in cancer? Can we harness these interactions to treat cancer? The Postdoctoral Fellow will drive their own projects, while collaborating on other projects (both internally and externally) and guiding PhD students in their research.
What you’ll be doing:
- Design experiments and research strategy in consultation with the PI
- Carry out experiments and analyse data
- Keep accurate and timely records of work
- Engage in professional development and growth
- Liaise with external collaborators
- Present work at Lab meetings, conferences and consortium meetings
Qualifications:
- PhD (or near completion) in cancer biology or related fields
- Hands‑on experience with in‑vivo/animal models
- A strong publication record demonstrating scientific impact
- Proven ability to design experiments and interpret data rigorously
- Excellent communication and presentation skills
- Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within multidisciplinary teams
- A proactive, curious and resilient approach to research
- Background in cancer biology and mechanistic research
- Experience with genetically engineered mouse models of cancer and/or orthotopic transplantations
- Experience designing and delivering preclinical studies
- Experience working in international and cross‑disciplinary collaborations
- Experience with in‑vivo imaging, primary cell culture, organoid culture and related in‑vitro assays
Benefits:
- 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%
- 24/7 GP consultation services
- Occupational health services and mental health support programs
- Eye care vouchers and discounted healthcare plans
- Work‑Life Balance: Childcare support allowance
- Annual leave purchase options
- Crick Networks offering diverse groups’ support, community and inclusive social events
- Discounted gym memberships, bike‑to‑work scheme, and shopping discounts
- Subsidised on‑site restaurant and social spaces for team interaction
- Career support: A Post‑doc to PI programme and other career development activities
Important notes: Please note you must meet the essential criteria listed within the Role Profile, to have your application reviewed. We reserve the right to withdraw this advert at any given time due to the number of applications received.
Postdoctoral Fellow - Cancer Biologist employer: The Francis Crick Institute Limited
Contact Detail:
The Francis Crick Institute Limited Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Postdoctoral Fellow - Cancer Biologist
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with folks in the cancer research community! Attend conferences, seminars, or even local meet-ups. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can help you land that dream postdoc position.
✨Show Off Your Skills
When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, make sure to highlight your hands-on experience with in-vivo models and your strong publication record. We want to see how your unique skills can contribute to their projects, so don’t be shy about showcasing your achievements!
✨Tailor Your Approach
Before reaching out to labs or potential collaborators, do your homework! Understand their research focus and think about how your work aligns with theirs. This way, when you approach them, you can speak directly to how you can contribute to their goals.
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to apply through our website for the best chance at landing that postdoc role! We’ve got all the resources you need to make your application stand out, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.
We think you need these skills to ace Postdoctoral Fellow - Cancer Biologist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to highlight your experience in cancer biology and any relevant research projects. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your hands-on experience with in-vivo models!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about cancer research and how your background fits with our lab's focus on neuro-immune interactions. Keep it engaging and personal – we love to see your enthusiasm!
Highlight Collaboration Skills: Since this role involves working with multidisciplinary teams, make sure to emphasise your collaborative experiences. Share examples of how you've successfully worked with others in past projects – we value teamwork just as much as individual brilliance!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about our lab and what we do!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Francis Crick Institute Limited
✨Know Your Research Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in your own research and the specific projects of the Li Lab. Be ready to discuss how your work aligns with their focus on neuro-immune interactions in cancer. This shows genuine interest and helps you stand out.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions about your hands-on experience with in-vivo models and data analysis. Brush up on your experimental design skills and be prepared to explain your methodologies clearly. This will demonstrate your expertise and confidence.
✨Showcase Collaboration Skills
Since the role involves working with multidisciplinary teams, be ready to share examples of past collaborations. Highlight how you’ve successfully worked with others, guided PhD students, or liaised with external partners. This will show you’re a team player.
✨Practice Your Presentation Skills
You’ll need to present your work at lab meetings and conferences, so practice summarising your research succinctly. Use clear visuals if possible, and be prepared to answer questions. This will help you convey your ideas effectively during the interview.