Investigator Scientist

This Investigator Scientist post sits in the Behavioural Phenomics group at the MRC Laboratory of Medical Sciences, a permanent full-time role. The postholder leads whole-animal phenotyping projects, building quantitative

C. elegans assays and high-throughput imaging for biological discovery and screening. The post also covers co-supervising students, training postdoctoral researchers and sharing methods across other LMS teams. Applicants need a PhD or equivalent experience and a completed postdoctoral appointment, and the role requires security screening.

• Define and deliver research projects in whole-animal phenotyping, from design and data collection to analysis, interpretation and publication
• Develop, validate and document reproducible
  
  C. elegans assays, imaging workflows and quantitative analysis methods, with quality control and data management
• Apply genetics, microscopy and screening approaches to investigate biological mechanisms and assess candidate compounds or other interventions
• Co-supervise students and train postdoctoral and other researchers
• Build internal and external collaborations, contribute to scientific discussions and keep methods current
• Publish and present research, contribute to funding applications and public engagement, and identify potential intellectual property
• Conduct research safely, ethically and reproducibly, in line with LMS, MRC and UKRI policies

• PhD, or equivalent experience, in biological sciences, bioengineering or a closely related discipline

• At least one completed postdoctoral appointment with significant experimental biology experience
• Independent design and delivery of research projects
• Experience with
  
  C. elegans research and quantitative behavioural or imaging assays, including worm genetics and high-throughput drug screens
• Significant peer-reviewed publications, including first and/or last author papers, presentations and collaborative research
• Experience training or supervising junior researchers

• Ability to establish, troubleshoot and document reproducible experimental and analytical workflows
• Independent, creative problem-solving and planning and prioritising with limited supervision
• Clear written and verbal scientific communication
• Constructive approach to collaboration and mentoring
• Commitment to reproducible research, safe working practices, confidentiality and responsible use of resources

• Security screening or vetting at the level required for the role

• Experience in molecular biology or microscopy method development