Senior Laboratory Research Scientist (SLRS)

Job Title: Senior Laboratory Research Scientist (SLRS)

Details of the role: Permanent, full-time. Working pattern: Monday - Friday.

Salary: From £45,700 pa with benefits subject to skills and experience

Application closing date: 18/06/:59 GMT

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 collaborate 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 seeking a highly motivated and creative scientist or engineer with a strong background in bioengineering, tissue engineering, and/or microfabrication and microfluidics to develop in vitro platforms for quantitative studies of cell and tissue behaviour in controlled 3D environments.

The successful candidate will join the Microfluidics and Biomaterials team within the Making Lab, playing a key role in advancing microphysiological systems that integrate microfabrication, biomaterials, and cellular components. You will lead the full project development cycle: system design, flow simulation, fabrication and characterisation to automation, experimental validation, iterative optimisation, implementation with the collaborating group and support on experiments and related publications.

The Making Lab is a Science Technology Platform (STP) working at the interface of engineering and biology. Its core objective is to support the advancement of biomedical research projects with a strong technological focus. Our multidisciplinary team develops innovative technological solutions to address complex research questions in a broad range of scientific areas, including Cancer, Development, Immunology, Infectious Disease, Neuroscience, Structural Biology, and Bioengineering. Our aim is to empower scientists with cutting-edge tools and technologies, offering specialised support and training in two core domains: Microfluidics & Biomaterials and Systems Engineering. The lab is a hub for creativity and collaboration, working closely with research groups, other STPs, and external academic and industrial partners.

What you will be doing

As an SLRS at the Crick, you will:

• Initiate, develop, and manage projects in collaboration with Crick's group reporting regularly to the head of Making lab and the Group Leader, providing experimental data and research analysis to support the development of a range of products and applications.
• Collaborate closely with Cell Science STP and Human Biology STP to develop 3D human models that better replicate physiological and pathological processes in vitro.
• Provide high quality service and support for the Microfluidics and Biomaterial activity in close collaboration with the Making Lab team.
• Develop a strong methodology to build bespoke systems for real-time feedback experiments covering Device design, Rapid prototyping, Flow control integration, Flow modelling & optimisation, Testing & troubleshooting, Automation support, Documentation & standards.
• Collaborate with Crick research groups and STPs to co-develop models that recapitulate physiological and pathological conditions in vitro.

About you

The essential criteria you will bring

• PhD or Master's degree in biomedical engineering, engineering sciences, materials science, nanotechnology, biotechnology or a related field, or other education considered equivalent to these qualifications.
• Strong hands-on experience in the development of microfluidic platforms, tissue-engineered constructs, and/or biomaterials for life sciences.
• Proficiency in device design, simulation (e.g., COMSOL), fabrication techniques, and flow system integration
• Experience in model validation (simulation, characterisation), microfluidics systems for biomedical applications, functional biomaterials for life science applications.
• Demonstrated experience with biomedical research environments and demonstrated ability to translate research needs into technological solutions.
• Excellent project management and organisational skills; able to balance independent projects with collaborative support roles.

To see the complete job description, click here .

To learn more about the Making lab 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 are a Disability Confident: Committed employer and you will be asked as part of the process if you wish to apply under the scheme. We will make reasonable adjustments if you need them. 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: 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.

Development & Recognition: Comprehensive training, mentoring, and a pay structure based on skills and experience.