At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead exciting research projects in whole-animal phenotyping and develop innovative C. elegans assays.
- Company: Join the MRC Laboratory of Medical Sciences, a hub for groundbreaking biological research.
- Benefits: Permanent full-time role with opportunities for collaboration and professional growth.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with a commitment to ethical and reproducible research practices.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in biological discovery while mentoring the next generation of scientists.
- Qualifications: PhD or equivalent experience in biological sciences and significant postdoctoral research.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 £ per year.
This Investigator Scientist post sits in the Behavioural Phenomics group at the MRC Laboratory of Medical Sciences, a permanent full-time role. The postholder leads whole-animal phenotyping projects, building quantitative C. elegans assays and high-throughput imaging for biological discovery and screening. The post also covers co-supervising students, training postdoctoral researchers and sharing methods across other LMS teams. Applicants need a PhD or equivalent experience and a completed postdoctoral appointment, and the role requires security screening.
What the job involves:
- Define and deliver research projects in whole-animal phenotyping, from design and data collection to analysis, interpretation and publication.
- Develop, validate and document reproducible C. elegans assays, imaging workflows and quantitative analysis methods, with quality control and data management.
- Apply genetics, microscopy and screening approaches to investigate biological mechanisms and assess candidate compounds or other interventions.
- Co-supervise students and train postdoctoral and other researchers.
- Build internal and external collaborations, contribute to scientific discussions and keep methods current.
- Publish and present research, contribute to funding applications and public engagement, and identify potential intellectual property.
- Conduct research safely, ethically and reproducibly, in line with LMS, MRC and UKRI policies.
Qualifications:
- PhD, or equivalent experience, in biological sciences, bioengineering or a closely related discipline.
Experience:
- At least one completed postdoctoral appointment with significant experimental biology experience.
- Independent design and delivery of research projects.
- Experience with C. elegans research and quantitative behavioural or imaging assays, including worm genetics and high-throughput drug screens.
- Significant peer-reviewed publications, including first and/or last author papers, presentations and collaborative research.
- Experience training or supervising junior researchers.
Skills & knowledge:
- Ability to establish, troubleshoot and document reproducible experimental and analytical workflows.
- Independent, creative problem-solving and planning and prioritising with limited supervision.
- Clear written and verbal scientific communication.
- Constructive approach to collaboration and mentoring.
- Commitment to reproducible research, safe working practices, confidentiality and responsible use of resources.
Checks & eligibility:
- Security screening or vetting at the level required for the role.
Nice to have:
- Experience in molecular biology or microscopy method development.
Investigator Scientist in London employer: UK Research and Innovation
UK Research and Innovation is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in the heart of London where innovation thrives. With a strong focus on employee development, you will have access to numerous growth opportunities and a supportive culture that values collaboration across various functions. Enjoy competitive benefits and the chance to contribute meaningfully to research operations while managing essential services that support groundbreaking initiatives.
Contact Details:
UK Research and Innovation Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Investigator Scientist in London
✨Get Involved in Research Communities
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✨Show Off Your Research Projects
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✨Utilise Professional Networks
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We think you need these skills to ace Investigator Scientist in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Research Experience:When applying for a full-time role in scientific research, make sure to emphasise your research experience prominently in your CV. Share specific projects you’ve worked on, the methodologies you used, and any significant findings. If you’ve published papers or presented at conferences, definitely include that too – it shows you’re on it in the academic world!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Research Area:Your cover letter should reflect your passion for the specific area of research at UK Research and Innovation. Mention relevant experiences that align with the organisation’s goals or projects. This shows that you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in the position – plus, it helps us see how you’d fit into the team dynamics.
Showcase Your Data Analysis Skills:In scientific research, data analysis skills are a big deal! Make sure to detail any relevant analytical tools or software you’re familiar with, like R, Python, or statistical packages. Employers are keen to know you can handle the data-heavy elements of the role, so add specific examples where you’ve used these skills effectively.
Discuss Your Future Research Goals:In your motivation section, it’s a great idea to talk about your future research goals and how they align with the work being done at UK Research and Innovation. This shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but rather a chance to contribute meaningfully to the field. We love to see applicants who are forward-thinking and enthusiastic about their research journey!
How to prepare for a job interview at UK Research and Innovation
✨Showcase Your Research Skills
In scientific research, it’s crucial to demonstrate your ability to design and conduct experiments. Come armed with examples of past projects where you've developed hypotheses, collected data, and analysed results. Be ready to discuss any specific methodologies or tools you’ve used, like PCR techniques or statistical software.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect some technical questions specific to your field. Make sure you're up to speed with recent advancements in scientific research related to the role at UK Research and Innovation. Brush up on concepts relevant to their projects and be prepared to discuss how you would approach a specific research problem or challenge they might face.
✨Know Your Publications
If you've authored or co-authored any papers, be prepared to discuss them! Highlighting your contributions to published research can really set you apart. It shows not only your expertise but also your ability to communicate complex ideas clearly, which is key in scientific research roles.
✨Exhibit Your Team Spirit
In full-time roles, collaboration is often at the heart of scientific research. Prepare examples that show how you've successfully worked in teams, dealt with conflicts, or contributed to group projects. We want to know how you can work effectively with the team at UK Research and Innovation to drive research projects forward.
