Laboratory Research Scientist

Job Description
Laboratory Research Scientist
Details of the role:
Working pattern: This is a full-time, fixed-term (12 months) position on Crick terms and conditions of employment.
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 fosters collaboration, innovation, and exploration across disciplines. It is a space where bright minds pursue big ideas and discover answers to crucial scientific questions. We support a dynamic environment with state-of-the-art infrastructure, cutting-edge facilities, and a creative culture. Our open approach removes traditional boundaries, encouraging high-risk, high-reward research that benefits human health and the economy.
About the role
What you will be doing
The Schmack Lab investigates biological mechanisms underlying psychosis, aiming to develop new treatments for disorders like schizophrenia and understand how the brain generates perceptions and thoughts. Our work intersects psychiatry, neuroscience, and immunology, driven by visionary and rigorous science.
You will work on patient samples to develop assays for detecting autoantibodies targeting the brain. This bench-based role involves close collaboration with a postdoctoral fellow or senior research scientist within a highly interdisciplinary team.
The role includes developing and applying in vitro immunological assays and transcriptomic profiling in serum and CSF from individuals with psychosis. Identified immune alterations will be further investigated using in vivo mouse models.
This is an exciting opportunity for a scientist experienced in cell culture, especially for early-career researchers seeking hands-on experience before pursuing a PhD.
As a Laboratory Research Scientist at the Crick, you will:
Conduct and support research on immunological assays for biosamples from patients with psychosis, including independent experiments and supervised work. Techniques include tissue processing, ELISA, plasmid production, cell transfection, flow cytometry, and fluorescence microscopy.
Support and maintain a positive, motivating lab environment.
About you
You will bring:
MSc or equivalent in Biology, Neuroscience, Immunology, or related fields
Enthusiasm for translational research on psychosis, immunology, and neuroscience
Experience with basic lab techniques (e.g., immunohistochemistry, tissue fixation, ELISA)
Excellent organizational and communication skills, with the ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team
See the full job description here .
Read more about the lab
About Working at the Crick
Our values
Everyone at the Crick plays a vital role in advancing our mission and culture!
Bold : We foster creative, dynamic, and imaginative ideas and approaches. We’re not afraid to do things differently.
Open : We are highly collaborative and transparent, sharing our activities with the outside world.
Collegial : We show respect, work cooperatively, and support our community.
We believe these values drive innovation and scientific discovery. We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to succeed, regardless of background or circumstances. We encourage applications from all genders, ethnicities, abilities, and experiences. We are a Confident: Committed employer and will make reasonable adjustments if needed—please let us know when you apply. For application assistance, email: .
Find out more about life at the Crick.
What will you receive?
We offer an extensive benefits package, including:
Generous Leave : 28 days annual leave plus three additional days over Christmas and bank holidays.
Pension Scheme : Defined contribution pension with up to 16% employer contributions.
Health & Well-being : 24/7 GP services, occupational health, mental health support, eye care vouchers, and discounted healthcare plans.
Work-Life Balance : Backup care for dependents, childcare support allowance, and annual leave purchase options.
Crick Networks for support, community, and social events.
Perks : Discounted gym memberships, bike-to-work scheme, shopping discounts, subsidized on-site restaurant, and social spaces for team interaction.

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