Postdoctoral Fellow - Neuroscientist

Postdoctoral Fellow – Neuroscientist (Li Lab)

Contract term: full‑time fixed‑term (4 years) on Crick terms and conditions of employment.

Reports to:

Leanne Li, Group Leader.

Salary for this role: £47,500 with benefits, subject to skills and experience.

Closing date: 6 August 2026 23:59 GMT. Final date to receive applications:
Thursday 6th August 2026 m.

The Li lab explores how the nervous and immune systems interact in cancer and how these insights could unlock approaches to treatment. Using advanced mouse models and tissue culture systems, the team investigates how neuroimmune crosstalk shapes cancer development and progression, with a focus on how the nervous system influences immune responses in tumours.

We are seeking a Postdoctoral Fellow to spearhead a project tackling one of the major challenges in cancer research:
What is the role of the nervous system in cancer? Can we harness this interaction to treat cancer? The Postdoctoral Fellow will drive their own projects, while collaborating on other projects (both internally and externally) and guiding PhD students in their research.

• Design experiments and research strategy in consultation with the PI.
• Carry out experiments and analyse data.
• Keep accurate and timely records of work.
• Engage in professional development and growth.
• Liaise with external collaborators.
• Present work at lab meetings, conferences and consortium meetings.
• Draft manuscripts for publication.

• PhD (or near completion) in Neuroscience.
• Hands‑on experience with in vivo / animal models.
• A strong publication record demonstrating scientific impact.
• Proven ability to design experiments and interpret data rigorously.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within multidisciplinary teams.
• A proactive, curious and resilient approach to research.

• Background in brain circuits or body‑brain axis.
• Experience in neural modulation, neuronal tracing, electrophysiology, behaviour studies, single‑cell analysis.
• Experience working with genetically engineered mouse models.
• Experience in international, cross‑disciplinary collaborations.

• Visas: 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 up to 16%.
• Health & well‑being: 24/7 GP consultation services, occupational health services, mental health support programmes, eye care vouchers and discounted healthcare plans.
• Work‑life balance: backup 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, shopping discounts, subsidised on‑site restaurant and social spaces for team interaction.
• Career support:
  Post‑doc to PI programme and other career development activities.

The Francis Crick Institute is a charitable organisation founded by the Medical Research Council, Cancer Research UK, Wellcome, UCL, Imperial College London and King’s College London.