At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative cancer research projects and collaborate with top scientists.
- Company: Join the Francis Crick Institute, Europe's largest biomedical research hub.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, health support, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Dynamic environment fostering collaboration and creativity in scientific discovery.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in cancer research and explore groundbreaking scientific questions.
- Qualifications: PhD in cancer biology or related fields with hands-on research experience.
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 are the roles of the neuroimmune interactions in cancer? Can we harness these interactions 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 cancer biology or related fields.
- 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 cancer biology and mechanist research.
- Experience with genetically engineered mouse models of cancer and/or orthotopic transplantations.
- Experience designing and delivering preclinical studies.
- Experience working in international and cross‑disciplinary collaborations.
- Experience with in vivo imaging, primary cell culture, organoid culture and related in vitro assays.
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.
- Work‑Life Balance: Back‑up care for dependents and childcare support allowance.
- Career support: A Post‑doc to PI programme and other career development activities.
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.
Postdoctoral Fellow - Cancer Biologist employer: The Francis Crick Institute
The Francis Crick Institute is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and collaborative environment for researchers to thrive in their pursuit of groundbreaking cancer research. With state-of-the-art facilities, generous benefits including 28 days of annual leave and a robust pension scheme, and a strong commitment to employee growth through career support programmes, the Crick fosters a culture of innovation and inclusivity that empowers its staff to make significant contributions to human health.
Contact Detail:
The Francis Crick Institute Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Postdoctoral Fellow - Cancer Biologist
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Attend conferences, seminars, and workshops related to cancer biology. Chat with researchers, share your interests, and don’t be shy about asking for advice or potential collaborations.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Prepare a solid presentation of your research work. Whether it’s at a lab meeting or a conference, being able to communicate your findings effectively can really set you apart from the crowd.
✨Tip Number 3
Get involved in collaborative projects! Reach out to other labs or departments within the Crick Institute. Working on interdisciplinary projects can enhance your experience and expand your professional network.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are genuinely interested in joining our innovative team.
We think you need these skills to ace Postdoctoral Fellow - Cancer Biologist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Postdoctoral Fellow position. Highlight your experience in cancer biology and any relevant projects you've worked on, especially those involving neuroimmune interactions.
Show Off Your Skills:Don’t hold back on showcasing your hands-on experience with in vivo models and your publication record. We want to see how you’ve made an impact in your field, so include specific examples that demonstrate your expertise.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. Use straightforward language to explain your research experience and how it aligns with our lab's focus. Remember, we appreciate clarity!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly and is considered promptly. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Francis Crick Institute
✨Know Your Research Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in your own research and the specific projects of the Li Lab. Be ready to discuss how your work aligns with their focus on neuroimmune interactions in cancer. This shows genuine interest and helps you connect your experience to their goals.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions about your hands-on experience with in vivo models and data analysis. Brush up on your experimental design skills and be prepared to explain your methodologies clearly. This will demonstrate your technical expertise and problem-solving abilities.
✨Showcase Collaboration Skills
Since the role involves working with multidisciplinary teams, be ready to share examples of past collaborations. Highlight how you’ve successfully worked with others, guided PhD students, or engaged with external partners. This will illustrate your ability to thrive in a collaborative environment.
✨Engage with Their Vision
Familiarise yourself with the Crick Institute’s mission and values. During the interview, express how your research interests align with their vision for innovation and exploration in cancer research. This shows that you’re not just looking for a job, but are genuinely interested in contributing to their mission.
