Senior Laboratory Research Scientist

Salary for this Role: £47,080 plus benefits, subject to skills and experience

Contract term:
This is a full-time, fixed term (4 years) position on Crick terms and conditions of employment.

Reporting to:
Venizelos Papayannopoulos, Principal Group Leader

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 Papayannopoulos Lab investigates how the innate immune system responds to infection while limiting harmful inflammation. Focusing on fungal and bacterial infections, we study how immune cells such as neutrophils and macrophages coordinate antimicrobial responses, prevent sepsis and regulate inflammatory diseases. Using cutting‑edge immunology, cell biology and in vivo disease models, our research aims to uncover new mechanisms that could lead to improved treatments for infections and inflammatory diseases.

We are seeking a highly motivated Senior Laboratory Research Scientist (SLRS) to contribute to cutting‑edge research investigating the molecular and cellular mechanisms that regulate innate immune responses in health and disease. Working within a collaborative and multidisciplinary research environment, you will design and deliver innovative experimental studies using in vitro and in vivo models, while supporting the wider research programme through technical expertise, mentoring and laboratory coordination.

This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced immunologist to combine hands‑on research with scientific leadership and operational responsibilities within a world‑leading biomedical research institute.

You will be responsible for:

• Designing and carrying out independent research using in vitro systems and mouse models of disease.
• Applying a range of molecular, cellular and biochemical techniques, including flow cytometry, CRISPR, microscopy and transcriptomic analysis.
• Analysing experimental data and contributing to high‑impact publications and scientific presentations.
• Mentoring PhD students and supporting the training of junior researchers.
• Collaborating with researchers across the Crick and external partners to advance immunology research.
• Supporting laboratory operations, including reagent and animal stock management, equipment coordination and ensuring compliance with health and safety standards.

You will have:

• Essential: (Minimum criteria*) PhD in immunology, infection biology, biochemistry, cell biology or a related discipline, or be in the final stages of PhD submission.
• Strong knowledge of immunology, biochemistry and cell biology.
• Experience working with molecular, cellular and mouse models of disease.
• Evidence of scientific publications or submitted manuscripts.
• Strong experimental design, organisational and collaborative working skills.
• Experience mentoring or supporting students and junior researchers.
• Enthusiasm for innovative science and a strong drive to contribute to high‑quality research.

• Experience in myeloid cell biology or cellular signalling pathways.
• Experience with advanced biochemical or cellular biology techniques.

Everyone who works at the Crick has a valuable role to play in advancing the…