Senior Laboratory Research Scientist

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 £47,080 with benefits, subject to skills and experience

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.

The Stem Cells and Organoids Platform (SCOP) at the Francis Crick Institute is a Science Technology Platform (STP) dedicated to advancing innovative research in human stem cell biology and organoid technologies. It provides specialised expertise and services that support the development of human model systems. By integrating complementary expertise in stem cells, gene editing, and organoid development, the platform provides an end-to-end pipeline for stem cell research, accelerating cutting-edge discovery across the institute.

We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Senior Laboratory Research Scientist (SLRS) to lead and support advanced gene editing and stem cell research within SCOP. The successful candidate will play a key role in designing and implementing cutting-edge genome engineering strategies, and driving innovation across diverse research and service projects.

Working closely with the Genetic Modification Service (GeMS) and other Science Technology Platforms (STPs), the post holder will take scientific ownership of projects in genome engineering, and contribute to the establishment of new shared resources for the research community. The role also involves providing expert training, and project guidance to collaborators.

See the full job description here

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.
• Participating in a weekend rota for stem cell maintenance.

You will have:

(Minimum criteria*)

• Higher degree in a relevant field (PhD, MSc) with three years of research experience*
• Extensive proficiency in designing and implementing gene editing strategies in human pluripotent stem cells, including generation of knockout, knock-in, or conditional alleles.*
• Extensive proficiency in molecular biology techniques, including molecular cloning, DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, RT-qPCR, and sequencing.*
• Strong background in stem cell biology, with hands‑on experience in the culture and maintenance of human pluripotent stem…