(Senior) Laboratory Research Scientist

Job Title: (Senior) Laboratory Research Scientist S) LRS)

Details of the role: Full-time, fixed term (12 months - possibility of extension). Working pattern: Monday - Friday.

Salary: LRS from £31,675/SLRS from £39,950 subject to skills and experience

Application closing date: 07/02/:59GMT

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 role will collaborate with a Postdoctoral Fellow on how viruses can manipulate animal behaviour using as a model different species of baculoviruses and their caterpillar hosts. Previous work in the lab and by collaborators has shown that viral infection leads to changes in caterpillar behaviour, including increased locomotion, climbing and changes to olfactory guided behaviours. In our lab, we are studying how the virus leads to these behavioural manipulations at the mechanistic level. Specifically, we combine transcriptomics with behaviour, as well as single molecule fluorescence immunohistochemistry, viral and caterpillar genetic manipulation, and physiological methods such as live calcium imaging and electrophysiology.

What you will be doing

As a (Senior) LRS at the Crick, you will:

• Independently running behavioural experiments in consultation with their postdoc supervisor and Group leader
• Independently performing molecular biology and imaging experiments, such as cloning
• Independently analysing and interpreting the results of such experiments and presenting them in an appropriate format to their postdoc supervisor and group leader
• Helping in the maintenance of the caterpillar colony in the lab

About you

You will bring

• BSc, MSc or PhD in Neuroscience, Cell Biology or related disciplines (or equivalent experience)
• Experience analysing research data
• Good organisational skills
• Ability to work collaboratively

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

To see more about role/team/lab click here .

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: Those applying for a SLRS 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.

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.