Senior Laboratory Research Scientist - Lightfield Specialist

Job Title: Senior Laboratory Research Scientist - Light field Specialist

Reporting to: Head of Crick Advanced Light Microscopy and Head of Tumour cell Biology Lab

Working pattern
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This is a 2 year full-time, fixed term position on Crick terms and conditions of employment.

Salary: From £47,080 with benefits, subject to skills and experience

Final date to receive applications: 24th of August 2026 m

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.

We are seeking a technically skilled Light field Microscopy Specialist to work at the Francis Crick Institute within the CALM STP and the Sahai lab.

Working within the CALM STP and Sahai group, you will help researchers use cutting-edge 3D imaging technologies, including confocal, multi-photon, and light-sheet microscopes, making a direct contribution to world class scientific research. You will be supporting Crick scientists wanting to image thicker samples including mouse tumours, organoids, and developmental models including drosophila larvae.

The Light field Specialist will work within the CALM team and Sahai group to evaluate the use of light field microscopy and its implementation in the RUSH3D HD system. They will support and train users in all stages of light field microscopy use, including experimental design, image acquisition, and especially data reconstruction. Approximately 50% of this role will be focussed on the generation of dynamic imaging datasets relating to the tumour microenvironment and how it is modulated by therapy.

The other half will involve building the light field user base by developing approaches to image a wide range of samples, from 3D cell culture models through to model organisms including zebrafish and fruit flies, as well as mouse tissue including intravital microscopy. Finally, the Light field Specialist will also work with equipment manufacturers to ensure equipment performs optimally.

• Provide training and advice on the use of light field microscopy
• Advise on the use of reconstruction methods
• Generate and analyse high quality dynamic imaging data pertaining to the tumour microenvironment
• Work with Crick Researchers on the design of experiments involving light field microscopy
• Develop and optimise standard operating protocols for the use of light field microscopy
• Work with Crick Researchers on the analysis, interpretation, and presentation of light field microscopy data
• Work with CALM on the specification and acquisition of hardware and software for light field microscopy
• Communication to internal and external audiences

• A PhD in an engineering, physical, or life science*
• Evidence of collaboration skills
• Training and/or teaching experience
• Experience imaging thick samples, such as spheroids, organoids, embryos, etc.*
• Laboratory based experience using light field microscopy to answer biological questions*
• Desire to develop new skills, including in the design and implementation of biological experiments
• Experience with the RUSH3D HD approach to light field microscopy (desirable)

Everyone who works at the Crick has a valuable role to play in advancing the Crick’s mission and shaping our culture.

We…