At a Glance
- Tasks: Design and implement experiments to explore cancer metabolism and cell behaviour.
- Company: Join the Francis Crick Institute, Europe's largest biomedical research hub.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, generous leave, and excellent work-life balance perks.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with strong focus on diversity, inclusion, and career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in cancer research with cutting-edge techniques and a collaborative team.
- Qualifications: PhD in molecular biology or related field and 3+ years postdoctoral experience required.
The predicted salary is between 47080 - 47080 £ per year.
Details of the role:
- Reporting to: Karen Vousden – Principal Group Leader
- Working pattern: This is a full-time, 2 year fixed term position on Crick terms and conditions of employment
- Salary: From £47,080 with benefits, subject to skills and experience
- Application closing date: 28th of August 2026 at 23.59pm
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. 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.
The Research Lab
We are looking for a Senior Laboratory Research Scientist position to join the Vousden Lab - Tumour and Host Metabolism Laboratory for two years. We focus on how changes in metabolism affect cancer development and progression. We also investigate how cancer affects the whole body, including the influence of primary tumours on distant organs and the interplay between cancers and systemic conditions such as obesity, cachexia and aging.
About the role
You will support several projects aimed at understanding the role of metabolism in controlling various aspects of cancer cell behaviour, such as the regulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), epithelial to mesenchymal transition and cancer/host cell interactions. This post will be an exciting opportunity to be part of a research group that is focused on investigating how metabolism affects tumour development using various in vitro and in vivo techniques. Projects in the laboratory are highly interdisciplinary and the successful candidate will be exposed to a broad range of cutting-edge in vitro and in vivo approaches in cancer research, becoming an integral member of the team.
What you will be doing:
- Design and implementation of experiments to assess nutrient and metabolic requirements of cancer cells
- Maintain cancer cells in culture and assess growth rates and survival
- Perform western blot analysis of protein expression
- Reagent preparation, sample accession and preparation
- Collaboration and interaction with other group members, as required
- General contribution to the smooth running of the lab, including contribution to general lab tasks
- Presentation and discussion of results at lab meetings
Qualifications:
- PhD (or equivalent experience) in the area of molecular biology, cancer models and metabolism
- Understanding of oxidative stress and ROS
- Technical metabolomic or proteomic analysis
- At least 3 years postdoctoral experience (or equivalent experience)
- Track record of writing papers as evidenced by publications or submitted manuscripts in refereed journals
- Evidence of data presentation at scientific meetings
- Experience of experimental design
- Ability to work independently and also capable of interacting within a group
- Metabolic pathway analysis (desirable)
About Working at the Crick
Our values: Everyone who works at the Crick has a valuable role to play in advancing the Crick’s mission and shaping our culture. We are bold. We make space for creative, dynamic and imaginative ideas and approaches. We’re not afraid to do things differently. We are open. We’re highly collaborative and interactive, and make sure our activities are visible to the outside world. We are collegial. We show respect for one another, work cooperatively and support the wider community.
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. We actively encourage applications from individuals of all genders, ethnicities, abilities, and experiences.
Work-Life Balance:
- 24/7 GP consultation services
- Occupational health services and mental health support programs
- Eye care vouchers and discounted healthcare plans
- 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
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%.
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.
Senior Laboratory Research Scientist – Tumour and Host Metabolism Laboratory employer: The Francis Crick Institute Limited
The Francis Crick Institute offers an exceptional environment for postdoctoral fellows, combining cutting-edge research with a strong commitment to mentorship and career development. Located in London, the DiFrisco Lab provides access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources, fostering a collaborative and intellectually stimulating atmosphere that encourages innovation and personal growth. With generous funding for research expenses and opportunities for training, this role is ideal for those looking to make significant contributions to the field of developmental biology while being part of a diverse and inclusive community.
Contact Details:
The Francis Crick Institute Limited Recruitment Team
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