At a Glance
- Tasks: Support lab operations and contribute to groundbreaking cancer research.
- Company: Join Europe's largest biomedical research institute, the Francis Crick Institute.
- Benefits: Generous leave, pension scheme, mental health support, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with excellent career growth and a supportive community.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in cancer research while working with top scientists.
- Qualifications: Hands-on lab experience, strong organisational skills, and teamwork abilities.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 € per year.
Contract term: This is a full-time, fixed term (3 years) position on Crick terms and conditions of employment.
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. We’ve removed traditional boundaries of departments, divisions and disciplines and instead have an open approach that supports every researcher. This gives us the freedom to take risks and carry out high‑quality, pioneering research. Creating a space for discovery without boundaries helps us to turn our science into benefits for human health and the economy.
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 neuroimmune crosstalk shapes cancer development and progression, with a focus on how the nervous system influences immune responses in tumours.
About the role
We are seeking a proactive and organised Laboratory Research Scientist to support the smooth running of laboratory operations while contributing to ongoing research projects. This is a varied role combining laboratory management with hands‑on experimental support across a range of in‑vivo and in‑vitro studies. You will play a key role in maintaining efficient lab processes, supporting researchers with technical expertise and ensuring high standards of safety and compliance. Alongside this, you will contribute to the scientific life of the team, engaging in academic activities and supporting the preparation of research outputs.
What you’ll be doing
- Maintaining and updating lab databases, protocols and standard operating procedures.
- Supporting compliance with safety standards, including risk assessments and documentation.
- Assisting researchers with in‑vivo experiments, including animal monitoring, tissue collection and downstream processing.
- Contributing to the smooth day‑to‑day running of the laboratory and supporting multiple ongoing projects.
About you
- Hands‑on wet lab experience, with confidence working in a research laboratory environment.
- Experience handling rodents and comfortable with daily animal work.
- Excellent organisational and time management skills, able to prioritise and deliver across multiple activities.
- High level of reliability and attention to detail, with a focus on accuracy and reproducibility.
- Proven ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary team.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate across different groups.
- A proactive, curious and solutions‑focused approach to problem solving.
- Experience supporting laboratory management and day‑to‑day operations.
- UK Home Office Personal Licence.
What will you receive?
At the Francis Crick Institute, we value our team members and are proud to offer an extensive range of benefits to support their well‑being and development:
- 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.
Please note you must meet the essential criteria listed within the Role Profile, to have your application reviewed.
Laboratory Research Scientist (Li Lab) employer: The Francis Crick Institute
The Francis Crick Institute is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and collaborative environment where innovative research thrives. With state-of-the-art facilities and a culture that encourages exploration across disciplines, employees benefit from generous leave, comprehensive health support, and robust career development opportunities. Located in the heart of London, the institute fosters a community-oriented atmosphere, making it an ideal place for those passionate about advancing biomedical science.
Contact Detail:
The Francis Crick Institute Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Laboratory Research Scientist (Li Lab)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at the Crick Institute on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give us insider info about the lab culture and maybe even a referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by diving deep into the Li Lab's research. Familiarise yourself with their recent publications and be ready to discuss how your skills can contribute to their projects. Show us you’re genuinely interested!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your responses to common interview questions, especially those related to teamwork and problem-solving. We want to see how you handle challenges and collaborate with others in a lab setting.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can leave a lasting impression and show us that you’re enthusiastic about the opportunity. Plus, it keeps you on our radar!
We think you need these skills to ace Laboratory Research Scientist (Li Lab)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the role of Laboratory Research Scientist. Highlight your hands-on lab experience, especially with rodents, and any relevant organisational skills.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about the research at the Li Lab and how your proactive approach can contribute to their ongoing projects.
Showcase Your Team Spirit:We love collaboration! In your application, mention examples of how you've worked effectively within a multidisciplinary team. This will show us you’re a great fit for our dynamic environment.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive all your details correctly and can review your application thoroughly.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Francis Crick Institute
✨Know Your Science
Make sure you brush up on the latest research in cancer and neuroimmune interactions. Familiarise yourself with the Li lab's work and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their projects. This shows genuine interest and helps you stand out.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Prepare to talk about your hands-on lab experience, especially with rodents and in-vivo experiments. Be specific about your contributions to past projects and how you maintained high standards of safety and compliance. Use examples that highlight your organisational skills and attention to detail.
✨Demonstrate Team Spirit
The Crick values collaboration, so be ready to share examples of how you've worked effectively within a multidisciplinary team. Highlight your communication skills and any experiences where you supported others in achieving common goals.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the lab's current projects or future directions. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also gives you a chance to assess if the lab environment is the right fit for you. Think about how you can contribute to their ongoing research.