Senior/ Principal Laboratory Research Scientist

Senior/ Principal Laboratory Research Scientist

Reporting to: Charlie McTernan

Contact term: This is a full-time, fixed term [24 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 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…

We are looking for a skilled organic chemist or chemical biologist to join the team and help manage our lab as well as leading projects within the lab, either as an SLRS or, with appropriate experience, as a PLRS.

This is an exciting opportunity to join a vibrant and diverse team of 14 chemists and chemical biologists, working at a leading biological research institute.

If you have a PhD in any of the following fields: Synthetic Organic Chemistry, Supramolecular Chemistry, Chemical Biology, or Solid-Phase Peptide Synthesis, and have experience in organic synthesis and/or cell culture, this would be a great opportunity for you.

The projects you will be working on will focus either on synthetic chemistry or work at the boundary of chemical synthesis and chemical biology. You will also be key in helping the PI allocate resources and space, organise equipment maintenance, manage relationships with Contract Research Organisations and Science and Technology Platforms, lead on health and safety within the group, and coordinate grant writing.

Collaboration is key at the Crick and in this role there is an opportunity to work across groups and with different technology platforms. You will be supported to develop new skills at the interface of chemistry with biology, with support from world-leading Science and Technology Platform scientists.

What you will be doing

As a SLRS/PLRS at the Crick, you will:

• Investigate research questions and develop specific research project(s) under guidance from the Group Leader.
• Provide specialist advice and guidance, sharing knowledge and expertise for the benefit of others.
• Contribute significantly to the production of research papers for publication, presenting findings to group members and other internal and external audiences.
• Develop ideas for generating research income, and present detailed research proposals.
• Act as a source of information and advice to other members of the group on scientific protocols and experimental techniques.
• Have a proactive approach to the management of health and safety protocols and play a leading role within the group in ensuring compliance with safety policy.

About you…

You will bring….

• PhD in Synthetic Organic Chemistry, Supramolecular Chemistry, Chemical Biology, Cell Biology, Solid-Phase Peptide Synthesis, or related field.
• Expertise in organic synthesis and/or cell culture and assay design.
• Track record of writing papers as evidenced by publications or submitted manuscripts in refereed journals.
• Evidence of data presentation at scientific meetings.
• Ability to work supportively in a laboratory environment.
• Demonstrated ability to assist in laboratory management and grant writing.
• Evidence of ability to supervise and educate junior co-workers and participate in joint projects.

Please ensure you read the complete Job Description click here for more info.

About Working at the Crick…

Our values

• 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: weronika.kucala@crick.ac.uk

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: Applicants for this 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, and 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.