Senior Laboratory Research Scientist - Human Models

Senior Laboratory Research Scientist – Human Models Core

Reports to: Head of Lab Operations (HBF)

This is a full-time, permanent position on Crick terms and conditions of employment.

Overview

The Human Models Core (HMC) is an integral part of the Human Biology Facility. HMC comprises of scientific and technical staff from the Francis Crick Institute who provide a service and support to all researchers. With close links to the Human Biology Governance Team and external partners the HMC provide a comprehensive range of services and support for human model’s research. Within the HMC there are 4 distinct core units: viral vectors, human embryo and stem cell unit (HESCU), human cell engineering and primary models.

The area of pluripotent stem cell research is a dynamic field with a broad scope of applications due to the ability of the cells to differentiate down lineages representative of all three germ layers. Apart from the potential clinical application of human pluripotent stem cells (PSC) in the field of cell therapies, the use of these cells is well established in area of assay development, modelling of developmental pathways and disease modelling. The utilisation of these applications coupled with the use of gene editing tools such as CRISPR makes this type of biological system ideal to study the effects of gene knockout or gene modification.

Project summary

HESCU is involved in developing key models for human disease by reprogramming somatic cells into PSC lines and assist with downstream applications like gene editing or differentiation.

HESCU provides and maintains a well-equipped laboratory space and as a communal lab space, facilitates interaction between the groups working with human models, pluripotent stem cells and gene editing. The Lab aims at fostering collaborations, knowledge hub and the sharing of protocols between the scientific groups who use the facility. We currently work with users to provide support and promote best practice, in the areas of growing pluripotent stem cells, differentiation, characterisation, banking and method development.

We are looking for a motivated, collaborative, scientist to work with HESCU /HMC staff, other STP scientist and the users to standardise reprogramming, QC and bank of PSC lines.

Key responsibilities

These include but are not limited to:

• Reprogramming somatic cells to iPSCs.

• Generation of iPSC derived organoids and other models

• Working and collaborating with scientist to develop scientific projects

• Provision of pluripotent stem cell culture suite, PSC QC and technical support to scientific groups within the Francis Crick Institute.

• Teaching and training scientists in the best practice skillsets necessary to grow, characterise, differentiate and bank human PSC.

• Support PSC genome editing unit, where needed

• Provision of support for the day-to-day running of the facility including but not limited to housekeeping, equipment maintenance.

• Maintenance of databases and records for the unit

• Monitoring and communication status of projects

• Budget management

Key experience and competencies

The post holder should embody and demonstrate our core Crick values: bold, open, and collegial, in addition to the following:

Essential

Qualifications, experience and competencies:

• PhD (or equivalent) in cell biology, stem cells, genetics or a relevant scientific discipline

• Substantial experience in reprogramming cells to pluripotency

• Extensive experience with quality control of PSC and related experience in a range of molecular biology techniques flow cytometry

• Experience in human organoid culture techniques

• Strong communication skills to audiences of varied expertise

• Proven track record of laboratory managerial and leadership skills

• Excellent organizational and time management skills

• Experience in facilitating collaborations

• Ability to teach and demonstrate techniques to other scientific staff

• Excellent organisational skills and record keeping with attention to detail

• Highly self-motivated with a pro-active approach

• Proven ability to work both collaboratively and independently

• Proven ability to drive projects and proficient in project management

Desirable

Qualifications, experience and competencies:

• Excellent inter-personal skills and a willingness to learn new skills

• Works well in a team and independently

• A good working knowledge of Microsoft Office and internet skills

• Ability to work with diverse databases

• Awareness of the compliance of stem cells and other human material

• Proven track record of leading independent projects and/or technology development

• Ability to develop new scientific research methods and to contribute to research strategy

Please note, the advert may be taken down before the closing date if a suitable candidate is found, therefore we would suggest that you apply for this role as soon as possible.

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Equality, Diversity & Inclusion:

We welcome applications from all backgrounds. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities, regardless of ethnicity, nationality, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, pregnancy, age, disability, or civil partnership, marital or family status. We particularly welcome applications from people who are Minority Ethnic as they are currently underrepresented in the Crick at this level.

Diversity is essential to excellence in scientific endeavour. It increases breadth and perspective, leading to more innovation and creativity. We want the Crick to be a place where everyone feels valued and where diversity is celebrated and seen as part of the foundation for our Institute’s success.

The Crick is committed to creating equality of opportunity and promoting diversity and inclusivity. We all share in the responsibility to actively promote dignity, respect, inclusivity and equal treatment and it is our aim to ensure that these principles are reflected and implemented in all strategies, policies and practices.

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