At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead groundbreaking research on the nervous system's role in cancer treatment.
- Company: Join Europe's largest biomedical research institute, fostering innovation and collaboration.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, health support, and pension scheme.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with excellent career growth and diverse, inclusive culture.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in cancer research while working with top scientists.
- Qualifications: PhD in Neuroscience and hands-on experience with animal models required.
The predicted salary is between 47500 - 47500 € per year.
This is a full-time, fixed term (4 years) position on Crick terms and conditions of employment.
Reports to: Leanne Li, Group Leader
Salary for this Role: From £47,500 with benefits, subject to skills and experience
Application Deadline: Thursday 11th June 2026 at 11.55pm
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 Project
We are seeking a Postdoctoral Fellow to spearhead a project tackling one of the major challenges in cancer research: What is the role of the nervous system in cancer? Can we harness this interaction 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
- Designing experiments and research strategy in consultation with the PI
- Carrying out experiments and analysing data
- Keeping accurate and timely records of their work
- Engaging in professional development and growth
- Liaise with external collaborators
- Presenting work at Lab meetings, conferences and consortium meetings
- Drafting manuscripts for publication
About you
Essential
- PhD (or near completion) in Neuroscience.
- 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.
Desirable
- Background in body‑brain axis or the peripheral nervous system.
- Experience in neural modulation, neuronal tracing, electrophysiology, behaviour studies, single cell analysis.
- Experience working with genetically engineered mouse models.
- Experience in international, cross‑disciplinary collaborations.
About Working at the Crick
Our values
- 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. We are a Disability Confident: Committed employer and want to ensure that everyone can apply and be part of our recruitment processes and so we'll make reasonable adjustments if you need them.
What will you receive?
- 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%.
- Health & Well‑being: 24/7 GP consultation services; Occupational health services and mental health support programs; Eye care vouchers and discounted healthcare plans.
- Work‑Life Balance: Back‑up care for dependents; Childcare support allowance; Annual leave purchase options.
- Perks: Discounted gym memberships, bike‑to‑work scheme, and shopping discounts; Subsidised on‑site restaurant and social spaces for team interaction.
Postdoctoral Fellow - Neuroscientist in London employer: The Francis Crick Institute
The Francis Crick Institute is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and collaborative environment where world-class scientists can thrive. With state-of-the-art facilities and a commitment to professional development, employees are encouraged to pursue innovative research that has a meaningful impact on human health. The institute's inclusive culture, generous benefits, and focus on work-life balance make it an attractive place for those looking to advance their careers in biomedical research.
Contact Detail:
The Francis Crick Institute Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Postdoctoral Fellow - Neuroscientist in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the neuroscience field, attend conferences, and engage with researchers at the Crick. You never know who might have a lead on an opportunity or be looking for collaborators.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Prepare a portfolio of your research projects and publications. When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, share your findings and how they relate to their work. It’s all about making that connection!
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! If you see a project at the Crick that excites you, don’t wait for a formal application. Reach out directly to the lab leader, like Leanne Li, and express your interest. A personal touch can make all the difference.
✨Tip Number 4
Keep learning and adapting! Stay updated on the latest research in cancer and neuroscience. Join online forums or workshops to enhance your skills. This shows your commitment and keeps you ahead of the game when it comes to interviews.
We think you need these skills to ace Postdoctoral Fellow - Neuroscientist in London
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 cancer research. 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!
Show Off Your Publications:If you've got a strong publication record, flaunt it! Include details about your most impactful papers and how they relate to the work we do at the Crick. This is your chance to demonstrate your scientific impact and expertise.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured documents that are easy to read. Make sure to proofread for any typos or errors – first impressions matter!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure it gets to the right people. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role and our amazing team there.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Francis Crick Institute
✨Know Your Research Inside Out
Make sure you can discuss your previous research and how it relates to the work being done in the Li Lab. Be prepared to explain your methodologies, findings, and how they could contribute to understanding the nervous system's role in cancer.
✨Showcase Collaboration Skills
Since the Crick values collaboration, be ready to share examples of how you've worked with multidisciplinary teams. Highlight any experiences where you successfully liaised with external collaborators or guided PhD students, as this will demonstrate your ability to thrive in their dynamic environment.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare insightful questions about the lab's current projects, future directions, and how they envision the role of the Postdoctoral Fellow. This shows your genuine interest and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
✨Practice Your Presentation Skills
Given the emphasis on communication, practice presenting your research clearly and confidently. You might be asked to present at lab meetings or conferences, so being articulate about your work and its implications is key to making a great impression.
