At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage ancient DNA clean room and support research on historical human and pathogen DNA.
- Company: Join Europe's largest biomedical research institute, the Francis Crick Institute.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, and extensive benefits for well-being and development.
- Other info: Dynamic lab environment with opportunities for collaboration and career growth.
- Why this job: Be part of groundbreaking research that uncovers human history through genomics.
- Qualifications: BSc or MSc in Biology, experience with molecular techniques, and strong organisational skills.
The predicted salary is between 37735 - 47080 € per year.
This is a full-time, fixed term (12 months maternity cover) position on Crick terms and conditions of employment.
Reports to: Pontus Skoglund, Senior Group Leader
Salary for this Role:
- LRS: From £37,735 with benefits, subject to skills and experience
- SLRS: From £47,080 with benefits, subject to skills and experience
Application Deadline: Monday 25th May 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.
About the Skoglund Ancient Genomics Lab
The Skoglund Ancient Genomics Lab is a dynamic, interdisciplinary research group bringing together expertise in computational biology, molecular biology and archaeology. The team generates and analyses ancient DNA from thousands of samples each year, supported by state‑of‑the‑art laboratory facilities and advanced bioinformatic infrastructure.
About the role
We are seeking a skilled and organised biologist to join the team as a Laboratory Research Scientist (LRS), or Senior Laboratory Research Scientist (SLRS) depending on experience. You will play a key role in managing the lab’s specialised ancient DNA clean room facility, supporting post‑PCR workflows and skeletal sample processing while maintaining the highest standards of laboratory practice.
What you’ll be doing
- Carrying out ancient DNA retrieval and supporting end‑to‑end sample processing workflows.
- Executing automated ancient DNA workflows using Agilent Bravo Workstations.
- Performing manual molecular techniques, including initial digestion and DNA extraction from bone and tooth samples.
- Preparing genomic libraries and supporting targeted capture of ancient DNA.
- Handling, cataloguing and coordinating the shipment of skeletal samples in line with ethical guidelines.
- Supporting sequencing workflows, including pooling, fragment processing and liaison with the Crick’s Genomics Core Facility.
- Delivering targeted hybridisation enrichment for human, canine and pathogen DNA.
- Maintaining accurate records and ensuring high standards of laboratory practice and data integrity.
- Contributing to the scientific life of the lab, including participation in meetings and supporting publications and presentations.
About you
- BSc or MSc in Biology, Biochemistry or a related field.
- Experience with molecular biology laboratory techniques and working in a research lab environment.
- Strong organisational skills, with experience accurately recording experiments and handling samples.
- Ability to work effectively as part of a collaborative, multidisciplinary team.
- Experience with automated liquid handling platforms (e.g. Agilent and/or Hamilton systems).
- High level of attention to detail, with a focus on reproducibility and data integrity.
- Good communication skills, with the ability to engage and collaborate with colleagues across the lab.
- Demonstrable interest in careful, accurate and ethical work with human skeletal material.
- Experience with next‑generation sequencing and genomics workflows.
- Experience in ancient DNA genomic workflows.
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: Generous Leave: 28 days of annual leave, plus three additional days over Christmas.
Senior/Laboratory Research Scientist - 12 Months Maternity Cover in London employer: The Francis Crick Institute
The Francis Crick Institute is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and collaborative work environment that fosters innovation and exploration in biomedical research. With state-of-the-art facilities and a commitment to employee growth, team members benefit from generous leave, competitive salaries, and the opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research that impacts human health. Located in the heart of London, the institute provides a unique chance to work alongside world-class scientists in a culture that encourages creativity and interdisciplinary collaboration.
Contact Detail:
The Francis Crick Institute Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior/Laboratory Research Scientist - 12 Months Maternity Cover in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the field, attend relevant events, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can help you land that dream job.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the lab and its projects. Familiarise yourself with their recent publications and ongoing research. This shows genuine interest and helps us stand out as candidates who are truly invested in the work they do.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your responses to common interview questions, especially those related to your experience with molecular techniques and ancient DNA workflows. We want to convey our skills confidently and clearly, so a bit of rehearsal goes a long way!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A simple thank-you email expressing appreciation for the opportunity can leave a lasting impression. Plus, it keeps us on their radar as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior/Laboratory Research Scientist - 12 Months Maternity Cover in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of Laboratory Research Scientist. Highlight relevant experience, especially in molecular biology and ancient DNA techniques, to show us you’re the perfect fit for our team.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter should tell us why you're passionate about this role and how your skills align with our mission at the Skoglund Lab. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm shine through!
Showcase Your Team Spirit:We love collaboration! In your application, mention any experiences where you've worked effectively in a team. This will help us see how you can contribute to our dynamic environment.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at the Crick.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Francis Crick Institute
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your molecular biology and ancient DNA techniques. Familiarise yourself with the specific workflows mentioned in the job description, like automated liquid handling and genomic library preparation. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you're not just a good fit, but also genuinely interested in the role.
✨Showcase Your Organisational Skills
Since this role requires strong organisational skills, prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully managed samples or maintained accurate records. Think about how you can demonstrate your attention to detail and ability to work within ethical guidelines, especially when handling human skeletal material.
✨Be Ready for Collaboration Questions
The Crick values collaboration, so expect questions about teamwork. Prepare to share instances where you've worked effectively in a multidisciplinary team. Highlight your communication skills and how you've engaged with colleagues to achieve common goals, especially in a research setting.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few thoughtful questions ready about the Skoglund Lab's current projects or future directions in ancient genomics. This shows your enthusiasm for the role and helps you gauge if the lab's culture aligns with your own values and interests.
