At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead groundbreaking research on mouse hypothalamus connectivity using advanced techniques.
- Company: Join the Francis Crick Institute, Europe's largest biomedical research hub.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, health support, and pension contributions.
- Other info: Dynamic, inclusive environment with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in neuroscience and collaborate with top scientists.
- Qualifications: PhD in Neuroscience or related field; experience in viral tracing and data analysis.
The predicted salary is between 47500 - 47500 £ per year.
Full‑time, fixed‑term (4 years) position on Crick terms and conditions of employment. Salary: from £47,500 with benefits, subject to skills and experience. Application closing date: 14th June 2026 23:59.
About the Francis Crick Institute
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.
About the role
We are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to lead an ambitious project aimed at reconstructing the cell‑type‑specific connectome of the mouse hypothalamus. You will combine viral tracing, spatial transcriptomics, and computational analysis to uncover how molecularly defined hypothalamic neuronal populations are interconnected to control instinctive behaviours and physiological states. To achieve this, the project will implement BRISC (Barcoded Rabies In Situ Connectomics), a recently developed method that combines barcoded rabies tracing with in situ sequencing to map long‑range synaptic connectivity at high throughput and cellular resolution. The resulting datasets will link neuronal identity, spatial organization, and connectivity across hypothalamic circuits. The project will involve close interaction with computational and experimental collaborators and offers the opportunity to work at the interface of systems neuroscience, spatial transcriptomics, and data science.
The Research Group
The Kohl lab uses a multidisciplinary strategy, ranging from in‑vivo calcium imaging and in‑vivo / ex‑vivo electrophysiology to behavioural profiling, viral circuit tracing and molecular approaches to investigate the neuronal and circuit‑level mechanisms by which physiological states alter information processing in the brain. Our team currently includes four postdocs, three PhD students, three research scientists, and one MSc student. We are committed to maintaining a supportive and collaborative research environment, and we particularly value collegiality and open scientific discussion. This project will involve close collaboration with the neighbouring Znamenskiy lab, which is developing in‑situ connectomics approaches for high‑throughput reconstruction of neural circuits.
What you will be doing
- Lead an independent and ambitious research project aligned with the aims outlined above.
- Develop and implement custom viral tracing and spatial transcriptomics workflows, including experimental pipelines, data acquisition and analysis.
- Generate, analyse and interpret high‑quality datasets.
- Establish and maintain close collaborations with computational and experimental researchers within and beyond the institute.
- Provide scientific and technical support to group members.
- Manage data and write manuscripts.
Qualifications
- In the final stages of PhD submission or a PhD in Neuroscience or a related field.
- Experience with viral tracing, circuit neuroscience, systems neuroscience, or related approaches.
- Strong analytical, quantitative and coding skills (particularly in Python).
- Experience handling and analysing large‑scale biological datasets.
- Track record of writing papers, evidenced by publications or submitted manuscripts in refereed journals.
- Evidence of data presentation at scientific meetings.
Working at the Crick
Our values: bold, open, collegial. 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 background, identity or personal circumstances. We actively encourage applications from individuals of all genders, ethnicities, abilities and experiences. The Crick is a Disability Confident employer and will make reasonable adjustments if needed.
Benefits include sponsorship to work in the UK, 28 days annual leave plus three additional days over Christmas and bank holidays, defined‑contribution pension with up to 16% employer contributions, 24/7 GP consultation, occupational health and mental health support, eye care vouchers, discounted healthcare plans, childcare support allowance, annual leave purchase options, Crick Networks support, discounted gym memberships, bike‑to‑work scheme, shopping discounts, on‑site restaurant and social spaces.
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.
For assistance with applying (e.g., by phone or post) please email: karen.au@crick.ac.uk
Postdoctoral Fellow - Kohl Lab employer: The Francis Crick Institute Limited
The Francis Crick Institute is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and collaborative environment for researchers to thrive. With state-of-the-art facilities and a commitment to diversity and inclusion, employees benefit from generous leave, comprehensive health support, and opportunities for professional growth in cutting-edge biomedical research. Join us at the forefront of scientific discovery, where your contributions can lead to meaningful advancements in health and medicine.
Contact Details:
The Francis Crick Institute Limited Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Postdoctoral Fellow - Kohl Lab
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former members of the Kohl Lab or other researchers in your field. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by diving deep into the lab's recent publications and projects. Show us that you're not just interested in the role, but that you genuinely understand and are excited about the work being done.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your skills in viral tracing and data analysis can contribute to the ambitious goals of the project. Confidence is key, so rehearse until it feels natural.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to follow the process.
We think you need these skills to ace Postdoctoral Fellow - Kohl Lab
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience in neuroscience and viral tracing. We want to see how your skills align with the ambitious project at the Kohl Lab!
Show Off Your Research Skills:Don’t hold back on showcasing your analytical and coding skills, especially in Python. We’re looking for someone who can handle large datasets and has a track record of writing papers, so let us know what you’ve achieved!
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that make it easy for us to see your qualifications and enthusiasm for the role.
Apply Through Our Website:Remember 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 exciting opportunity at the Crick.
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 the latest developments in neuroscience, especially related to viral tracing and spatial transcriptomics. Familiarise yourself with the Kohl lab's recent publications and projects, as this will show your genuine interest and help you engage in meaningful discussions during the interview.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect to be asked about your experience with data analysis and coding, particularly in Python. Brush up on your analytical skills and be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've handled large-scale biological datasets or developed experimental workflows in your previous work.
✨Showcase Your Collaborative Spirit
The Crick Institute values collegiality and collaboration. Be prepared to share examples of how you’ve successfully worked in teams, especially in interdisciplinary settings. Highlight any experiences where you’ve supported colleagues or contributed to group projects, as this aligns with their supportive research environment.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions that demonstrate your curiosity about the lab’s work and future directions. Inquire about potential collaborations with the Znamenskiy lab or ask how the team approaches challenges in their research. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you assess if the lab is the right fit for you.
