Job Title: Principal Laboratory Research Scientist –
Human Biology Facility Reports to: Head of Lab Operations - Daria
Paruzina 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 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 whichfacilitates
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 -
Supportgene editing projects in PSC - Reprogramming somatic cells
to pluripotent stem cells. - 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 - 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 Everyone who works at the
Crick has a valuable role to play in advancing the Crick’s mission
and shaping our culture! - We arebold. We make space for creative,
dynamic and imaginative ideas and approaches. We’re not afraid to
do things differently. - We areopen. We’re highly collaborative and
interactive, and make sure our activities are visible to the
outside world. - We arecollegial. 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%. -
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. - 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. #J-18808-Ljbffr
