Senior Laboratory Research Scientist - Genome Editing in Human Stem Cells

Senior Laboratory Research Scientist – Genome Editing in Human Stem Cells

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

Salary for this Role: From £45,700 with benefits, subject to skills and experience

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 Stem Cells and Organoid Platform (SCOP)

The Stem Cells and Organoid Platform (SCOP) at the Francis Crick Institute provides expert support to enable research involving human materials and data, while building institutional capability in key areas such as stem cell biology, genetic modification, and human model systems.

About the role

We are seeking a Senior Laboratory Research Scientist (SLRS) to lead gene editing and stem cell research with SCOP. You will drive innovative genome engineering strategies across research and service projects, working at the cutting edge of human model systems.

Partnering closely with GeMS and other STPS, you will take scientific ownership of key initiatives, build shared capabilities and provide expert training and guidance. This is a highly visible role for an experienced scientist who thrives on hands-on science, collaboration and impact.

What you’ll be doing

You will be responsible for:

• Leading and delivering SCOP research and service projects, owning scientific direction and outcomes.
• Designing and implementing advanced gene editing strategies tailored to project needs.
• Working closely with GeMS and STPs to develop robust, innovative genome engineering solutions.
• Establishing shared methods and technologies with group leaders, strengthening institute capability.
• Staying at the forefront of CRISPR technologies through active horizon scanning and engagement.
• Training and mentoring researchers in gene editing and stem cell culture best practice.
• Engineering and maintaining high-quality iPSC and ESC lines, ensuring reproducibility and QC.
• Supporting effective lab operations, including SOPs, biosafety, resources and equipment.
• Communicating clearly across teams, contributing to reports, collaboration and supportive research culture.

About you

You will have:

Essential:

• A higher degree (MSc or PhD) in a relevant field, with strong research experience in stem cell biology. *
• Hands-on expertise in human pluripotent stem cell culture (iPSC and/or ESC) and core molecular biology techniques. *
• Experience designing and delivering gene editing strategies using CRISPR/Cas9 and related technologies.*
• Strong experimental design, troubleshooting and data analysis skills, with excellent attention to quality and reproducibility.*
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects, work collaboratively and communicate effectively across multidisciplinary teams.

Desirable

• Experience generating modified pluripotent stem cell lines (e.g. knockouts, knock-ins, conditional alleles).
• Familiarity with advanced culture systems (e.g. organoids, assembloids) and/or automation tools.
• Knowledge of genome engineering workflows, reprogramming approaches, or bioinformatics tools for guide design and analysis.

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 are a Disability Confident: Committed employer and 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: [email protected].

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.

• Annual leave purchase options.
• Crick Networks offering diverse groups’ support, community and inclusive social events.

• Perks :

• Discounted gym memberships, bike-to-work scheme, and shopping discounts.

• Subsidised on-site restaurant and social spaces for team interaction.
• Career support: Since September 2017 Crick has been a signatory to the Technician Commitment, an initiative across the research sector to ensure visibility, recognition, career development and sustainability for technicians working in higher education and research, across all disciplines.

Please note you must meet the essential criteria listed within the Role Profile, to have your application reviewed.

We reserve the right to withdraw this advert at any given time due to the number of applications received.

Company

At the Crick, we’re committed to advancing, promoting, and sharing understanding of human health and disease. We do that by attracting talented and ambitious people from all disciplines and backgrounds and giving them the support and freedom they need to succeed. Inside the Crick, you’ll discover scientists working to stretch the very limits of what we know about how life works. Their research holds the key to answering fundamental questions about human health and disease. Our bold and innovative research projects bring together scientists and technicians from all disciplines in the pursuit of discovery without boundaries. With the support of our partners, we’re bridging the gap between discovery and application to help change lives for the better. And through our dynamic structure, we’re able to develop the science leaders of tomorrow. That’s our bold idea, tell us yours.

Company info

Location

London
NW1 1AT
United Kingdom