At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative cell culture projects and support researchers with cutting-edge techniques.
- Company: Join the Francis Crick Institute, Europe's largest biomedical research hub.
- Benefits: Enjoy 28 days leave, health support, and a generous pension scheme.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with excellent career growth and a commitment to diversity.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in biomedical research while collaborating with top scientists.
- Qualifications: PhD in cell physiology or related field with hands-on tissue culture experience.
The predicted salary is between 47080 - 47080 £ per year.
Reporting to: Manuela Natoli, Head of Cell Science
Contract term: This is a full‑time permanent position on Crick terms and conditions of employment.
Salary for this Role: From £47,080 with benefits, subject to skills and experience.
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 Cell Science STP
There are 19 Science Technology Platforms (STPs) at the Crick, providing scientists with unparalleled support to help streamline research and accelerate discovery. The Cell Science STP is a unique facility delivering cell lines, large‑scale cell culture production and tissue culture services to researchers across the institute. By providing high‑quality, consistent and rigorously controlled cell culture support, the team enables scientists to focus on their research while ensuring robust and reproducible experimental standards. Working closely with research groups and other STPs, the team combines deep technical expertise with a collaborative service focused approach. The platform continually evolves its capabilities by introducing new technologies, adapting to scientific advances and proactively responding to the changing needs of Crick science.
About the role
We are seeking a Senior Laboratory Research Scientist (SLRS) to support the scientific, operational and technical delivery of the Cell Science STP. Working closely with the STP Lead, Deputy Head and Principal Laboratory Research Scientist (PLRS), you will play a key role in the management and development of large‑scale cell culture production, ensuring the platform continues to deliver an outstanding service to researchers across the institute. This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced scientist with strong expertise in tissue culture and large‑scale cell production who enjoys combining hands‑on scientific work with mentoring, troubleshooting, collaboration and continuous improvement.
What you will be doing
- Supporting the day‑to‑day operation of the Cell Science STP and large‑scale cell culture production workflows.
- Providing scientific and technical support to researchers and the wider laboratory team.
- Troubleshooting complex cell culture and technical challenges across the platform.
- Implementing and improving quality control processes and ensuring SOP compliance.
- Supporting staff training, mentoring and development.
- Building collaborations with research groups and supporting new services and technologies across the institute.
- Contributing to reporting, workflow optimisation and continuous improvement activities within the facility.
About you
- PhD or equivalent experience in cell physiology or a related discipline, with extensive experience working in tissue culture environments.
- Strong practical expertise in large‑scale cell culture systems including bioreactors, wave bags and spinners.
- Extensive experience optimising and troubleshooting small and large‑scale cell culture workflows.
- Strong scientific knowledge of techniques such as real‑time PCR, ELISA and Western Blot.
- Experience working in containment level 2 laboratory environments.
- Strong organisational skills with the ability to prioritise competing activities and meet deadlines.
- Experience supporting scientific service delivery and collaborating with research communities.
- Experience training, mentoring or supporting junior staff members.
- Excellent communication skills with a collaborative and proactive approach to team working.
- Excellent attention to detail and a strong customer‑focused mindset.
- Experience with specialised cell culture techniques such as organoids, spheroids, organ‑on‑chip systems or co‑cultures.
- Experience with cell culture automation or iPSC workflows.
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. 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 – just let us know when you apply.
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.
- Development & Recognition: Comprehensive training, mentoring, and a pay structure based on skills and experience.
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 - Cell Science STP employer: The Francis Crick Institute
The Francis Crick Institute is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and collaborative work environment that fosters innovation and scientific exploration. With state-of-the-art facilities and a commitment to employee development, staff enjoy generous benefits including 28 days of annual leave, comprehensive training opportunities, and a strong focus on work-life balance. Located in the heart of London, the Crick provides a unique opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research while being part of a diverse and inclusive community.
Contact Details:
The Francis Crick Institute Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Laboratory Research Scientist - Cell Science STP
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the field of cell science and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. Attend relevant events or webinars where you can meet potential colleagues and collaborators. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your expertise! Prepare a portfolio or presentation that highlights your experience with large-scale cell culture and any innovative projects you've worked on. This will not only impress potential employers but also give you confidence during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors to refine your answers, especially around troubleshooting and mentoring scenarios. The more comfortable you are discussing your experiences, the better you'll perform when it counts.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We encourage you to submit your application directly on the Crick's site. It shows initiative and gives you a chance to tailor your application to what we’re looking for. Plus, it’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Laboratory Research Scientist - Cell Science STP
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to highlight your experience in cell culture and large-scale production. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t be shy about showcasing your relevant expertise!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re excited about the position and how your background makes you a perfect fit for our team at the Cell Science STP.
Showcase Your Collaborative Spirit:Since we value collaboration, make sure to include examples of how you've worked with others in your previous roles. Highlight any mentoring or training experiences that demonstrate your ability to support and develop junior staff.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands and shows us you’re serious about joining our innovative team!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Francis Crick Institute
✨Know Your Cell Culture Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of large-scale cell culture systems, including bioreactors and wave bags. Be ready to discuss your hands-on experience and any troubleshooting you've done in the past. This will show that you're not just familiar with the theory but can also apply it practically.
✨Showcase Your Collaborative Spirit
The Crick values collaboration, so be prepared to share examples of how you've worked with research groups or mentored junior staff. Highlight any successful projects where teamwork was key, as this will demonstrate that you fit well within their dynamic environment.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect to face questions about specific techniques like real-time PCR, ELISA, and Western Blot. Brush up on these methods and think of scenarios where you've applied them. Being able to articulate your technical expertise will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Emphasise Continuous Improvement
The role involves optimising workflows and implementing quality control processes. Be ready to discuss any initiatives you've led or contributed to that improved efficiency or quality in your previous roles. This shows that you're proactive and committed to excellence.
