At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead exciting research on cell division and differentiation in a dynamic lab environment.
- Company: Join the innovative Francis Crick Institute, a leader in biomedical research collaboration.
- Benefits: Enjoy excellent mentorship, training, and access to cutting-edge technology.
- Why this job: Be part of a vibrant team focused on impactful scientific discoveries and personal growth.
- Qualifications: PhD in Life Sciences with extensive molecular biology and tissue culture experience required.
- Other info: Apply quickly as positions close once suitable candidates are 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 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 drive a research project and contribute to collaborative projects within the lab. The postholder will benefit from excellent mentorship and training and a vibrant and collegial scientific community within the Santos lab and at the Francis Crick Institute.
The research group was established in 2018 at the Francis Crick Institute. The lab’s primary focus is understanding cell decision-making. Current areas of research include understanding regulatory mechanisms regulating cell fate specification, cell cycle remodeling during cellular differentiation and the interplay between metabolism, cell cycle and cell fate. There is a strong focus on single cell analysis and advanced live cell imaging. The lab uses a variety of model systems: mouse and human embryonic stem cells (ESC), 3D organoid models of mouse and human development and mouse embryos. The team is multi-disciplinary, diverse and currently composed of three PhD students, two post-doctoral fellows and one principal laboratory research scientist. The Santos lab promotes independent and creative thinking and all members are committed to providing excellent training and mentorship.
Responsibilities
- Lead specific research project under the Group Leader’s supervision
- Attend and participate in group meetings and key Crick seminars
- Keep accurate records of all work carried out
- Train more junior colleagues when appropriate
- Contribute to the preparation of scientific manuscripts
- Contribute to the lab hESC feeding rota
- Contribute to the collegial, positive and motivating lab atmosphere
Key experience and competencies
The post holder should embody and demonstrate our core Crick values: bold, imaginative, open, dynamic and collegial, in addition to the following:
- PhD in any area relevant to the Life Sciences
- Extensive experience in Molecular Biology
- Extensive tissue culture experience
- Experience with imaging/microscopy
- Experience and/or motivation to understand cell division in the context of development and/or disease
- Excellent organisational skills including impeccable recording of lab work
- Very good interpersonal skills enabling the postholder to build effective collaborations with colleagues
- Track record of working independently (e.g. contributing to a publication)
Additional Qualifications
- Experience with stem cell culture and, in particular, with hESCs/iPSCs will be an asset
- Prior experience with image analysis will be an asset
- Analytical mindset
- Track record of writing papers
The position will close as soon as an appropriate candidate is found, therefore we encourage you to apply for this role as soon as you can.
About Us
At the Crick, we conduct research at the forefront of biomedical research. We combine rigour with an open and collaborative culture, and are outward-looking, reflecting our status as a partnership of six organisations aiming to pool knowledge, ideas and resources. We have a wide research portfolio with no divisions or departments, bringing biomedical researchers together with clinicians, physical scientists and applied scientists from our pharmaceutical partners. We aim to attract the most talented researchers and support them to tackle innovative research questions. Our science technology platforms provide our researchers with access to state-of-the-art technology and expertise. We provide an excellent learning environment with dedicated education programmes in public engagement with science, education and personal development, and a postdoc training programme that prepares scientists for leadership roles in science.
Senior Laboratory Research Scientist – Santos Lab 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 Senior Laboratory 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 any projects related to molecular biology or tissue culture. Be ready to explain how these experiences have equipped you for the role of Senior Laboratory Research Scientist.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your collaborative skills by thinking of examples where you've successfully worked in a team. The Santos lab values a collegial atmosphere, so demonstrating your ability to contribute positively to a team will be crucial.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Laboratory Research Scientist – Santos Lab
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in Molecular Biology, tissue culture, and any specific skills related to stem cell research. Emphasise your PhD and any publications to showcase your expertise.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that reflects your passion for the role and the research conducted in the Santos lab. Mention specific projects or areas of interest that align with their work, demonstrating your understanding of their research focus.
Highlight Collaborative Skills: Since the position requires effective collaboration, include examples of past teamwork experiences. Discuss how you contributed to group projects and how you can foster a positive lab atmosphere.
Showcase Your Research Impact: In your application, detail your previous research projects and their outcomes. Highlight any independent contributions to publications, as this will demonstrate your ability to drive research projects effectively.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Francis Crick Institute Limited
✨Showcase Your Research Experience
Be prepared to discuss your previous research projects in detail, especially those related to molecular biology and stem cell culture. Highlight any specific techniques you've mastered, such as imaging or microscopy, and how they relate to the work being done in the Santos lab.
✨Demonstrate Collaborative Spirit
Since the role involves contributing to a collegial atmosphere, be ready to share examples of how you've successfully collaborated with colleagues in the past. Emphasise your interpersonal skills and your ability to train and mentor junior team members.
✨Align with Core Values
Familiarise yourself with the Crick's core values: bold, imaginative, open, dynamic, and collegial. During the interview, illustrate how you embody these values through your work ethic and approach to research.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect technical questions related to cell division, differentiation, and tissue culture. Brush up on your knowledge in these areas and be ready to discuss how your analytical mindset has contributed to your research outcomes.