Senior Laboratory Research Scientist - Experimental Connectomics

Senior Laboratory Research Scientist – Experimental Connectomics

Details of the role

Reports to: Andreas Schaefer, Principal Group Leader and Assistant Director

Contact term: This is a full-time, permanent 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 Senior Laboratory Research Scientist (SLRS) to join Prof Andreas Schaefer’s laboratory at the Francis Crick Institute.

The Sensory Circuits and Neurotechnology Lab studies how information is represented and processed in the brain, focussing on sensory circuits in mice. The lab uses and develops anatomical, physiological, and behavioural techniques to dissect the structure and function of neural circuits, as well as advanced imaging methods for circuit visualization.

A key focus of the lab is to develop and use X-ray connectomics, delineating wiring diagrams with X-rays.

As an SLRS, you will lead efforts in novel sample preparation using classical histological as well as e.g. FIBSEM and fsLaser milling techniques and electron microscopy. You will also adapt and optimise approaches to the specifics of X-rays, lead the “wet” side of X-ray connectomics in the lab, liaise with collaborators world-wide at synchrotrons and elsewhere and the wider community.

The role of an SLRS is varied, and you will have the opportunity to work collaboratively with other members of the lab, as well as across the institute. You will provide experimental or technical support to other lab members and other labs, and will have the opportunity to pursue independent projects from design, acquisition of resource to dissemination in the field of connectomics.

What you will be doing

Some of your key responsibilities will include:

• Undertake laboratory research projects, pursuing independent projects from design, acquisition of resource to dissemination in the field of connectomics
• Develop new techniques, especially around sample preparation, establishing multimodal correlative imaging pipelines
• Support lab members with sample preparation
• Initiate and develop relationships with collaborators, in particular in the electron microscopy and X-ray imaging field
• Manage sample data bases

About you

You will have:

• PhD in relevant discipline (Life science, biotechnology, neuroscience, x-ray physics etc)
• Proven publication record *
• Experience with electron microscopy on tissue *
• Experience with tissue preparation for microscopy *
• Experience in animal work
• Experience in laboratory techniques such as microscopy and histology *

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:

• 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.

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
GB