Job Description Principal Laboratory Research Scientist - Human Biology Facility

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

Salary: From £49,955, subject to skills and experience, with benefits

Application Closing date: 3 rd Feb 2025

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 role

The Human Models Core (HMC) is an integral part of the Human Biology Facility. Operated by a team of scientific and technical experts, the HMC offers a portfolio of services and support to researchers. Working closely with the Human Biology Governance Team and research groups at the Crick, the HMC is aimed to facilitate a broad spectrum of human models research. The core operates in a number of specialized areas, including viral vectors, pluripotent stem cells, genome editing and cell engineering, primary cells and organoids.

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. The employment 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.

The HMC team is involved in developing key models for human disease by reprogramming somatic cells into pluripotent stem cell lines and assisting with downstream applications like gene editing and differentiation. Additionally, we provide and maintain a well-equipped communal laboratory space which facilitates interaction between the groups working with human models, pluripotent stem cells and gene editing. The lab aims at fostering collaborations, knowledge exchange and the sharing of protocols between the scientific groups who use the facility. Moreover, we provide bespoke support to individual users and promote best practice in the areas of growing pluripotent stem cells, differentiation, characterisation, banking and method development.

We are seeking a highly motivated, proactive stem cell expert with deep knowledge and understanding in reprogramming pluripotent stem cells (PSC), differentiation and gene editing. In addition, the candidate should have an understanding of primary human models and their application. The successful candidate will take the lead on reprogramming projects, support and advise of differentiation projects, gene editing projects and the generation of human 2D and 3D models.

As a Principal Laboratory Research Scientist, you will:

- Identifying, managing and delivering robust scientific support to Crick Researchers

- Project delivery of reprogramming portfolio

- Support gene editing projects in PSC

- Reprogramming somatic cells to pluripotent stem cells

- Register reprogrammed cell lines

- Establishing new methodologies in the lab

- Developing proof-of-concept for new research directions

- Horizon scanning and developing specific scientific projects and platforms within the facility in a collaborative setting

- Supporting research groups, Head of Lab ops in grant writing and publications

- Provision of tissue culture, quality control and technical support to research groups within the Francis Crick Institute

- Teaching and training scientists in the best practice skill sets necessary to grow, characterise, differentiate and bank human pluripotent stem cells

About you

You will bring;

- Degree in a biological subject with substantial post-graduate experience in pluripotent stem cell research

- PHD or equivalent experience

- Extensive wet lab experience in pluripotent cell culture

- Experience in reprogramming cells to pluripotency

- Experience in PSC model development

- Proven track record in scientific publication

- Demonstrable experience with best practice, quality control assessment and related assays

- Excellent communication and presentation skills

- Excellent organisational skills and record keeping with attention to detail

- Ability to prioritise workflows and deliver to deadlines - Highly self-motivated with a pro-active approach

To see the complete job description, click here for more info!

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 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. If you need assistance with applying (i.e., would like to apply by phone or post) please email

To find out more about life at the Crick click here .

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 - The Crick offers funding for those requiring a visa 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. Eye care vouchers and discounted healthcare plans.

Work-Life Balance:

Back-up care for dependents. Childcare support allowance. Annual leave purchase options.

Perks:

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 with performance-linked progression.