BRF GeMS Research Scientist

Salary for this Role:

From £37,300 with benefits, subject to skills and experience

Job Title:

Reports to:

Closing Date:

Job Description:

BRF GEMS Research Scientist

Reports to: GeMs Senior Manager Molecular & Cell.

This is a full-time, permanent position on Crick terms and conditions

Working pattern: Monday – Friday.

About us…  

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. 

About the role… 

The Genetic Modification Services (GeMS) provide a breadth of specialist skills and resources for the design, creation, production, storage and use of genetically altered animals, germplasms and cell lines together with ancillary techniques.

The post-holder will join the genetic modification team and assist in the design and generation of molecular reagents used in both in vivo and in vitro genetic engineering experiments for the generation of animal and disease models and the subsequent genetic validation of the resulting mutant strains.

If you have a degree in a biological subject and have experience in a molecular biology, mammalian cell culture and CRISPR-Cas9, this could be a perfect opportunity for you to join the team.

You will participate in the creation of new animal models, taking a lead role towards the development of a subset of projects. As such, you will be expected to develop a detailed understanding of genetic modification and mouse genetics and will be expected to follow breeding progress ensuring that the 3R’s principles for in vivo research (replacement, reduction and refinement) underpins all work that is undertaken.

What you will be doing

As a BRF GeMS Research Scientist at the Crick, you will:

• Assist in the design, generation of reagents and validation of new genetically modified alleles.
• Perform core molecular biology techniques including LR-PCR, PCR, digital droplet or qPCR, molecular cloning, NGS sequencing technologies, genotyping and sequence analysis.
• Maintenance of mESC cultures and perform in vitro CRISPR facilitated and classical gene targeting experiment using electroporation, nucleofection and lipofection. Engage in out of hours cell culture work rota.
• Participate in the creation of new animal models, taking a lead role towards the development of a subset of projects; working towards agreed deadlines, identifying and troubleshooting at each step, seeking support when required.
• Maintain records, ensuring your own scientific work is always carried out accurately and efficiently, adhering to legal frameworks.
• Awareness and promotion of all relevant health and safety guidance and legislation.

About you…  

You will bring….

• A degree or equivalent in a biological subject.
• Experience in a relevant position, particularly in molecular biology and mammalian cell culture.
• Understanding CRISPR-CAS9 design and associated techniques.
• Experience of using genome browsers, DNA analysis software and CRISPR CAS9 guide on/off target specificity software.
• Commitment to continued professional development (CPD).
• Experience of contributing effectively to the work of a team with a flexible and collaborative approach.

To see the complete Job Description click here for more info

About Working at the Crick… 

Our values  

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

• We are bold. We make space for creative, dynamic and imaginative ideas and approaches. We’re not afraid to do things differently. 

• We are open. We’re highly collaborative and interactive, and make sure our activities are visible to the outside world. 

• We are collegial. We show respect for one another, work cooperatively and support the wider community. 

At the Francis Crick Institute, we believe that diversity and inclusion are essential to driving innovation and scientific discovery. We are committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to succeed, regardless of their background, identity, or personal circumstances. We actively encourage applications from individuals of all genders, ethnicities, abilities, and experiences. We want to ensure that everyone can apply and be part of our recruitment processes and so we'll make reasonable adjustments if you need them - just let us know when you apply. If you need assistance with applying (i.e., would like to apply by phone or post) please email: [email protected]

To find out more about life at the Crick click here.

What will you receive?  

At the Francis Crick Institute, we value our team members and are proud to offer an extensive range of benefits to support their well-being and development: 

• Generous Leave: 28 days of annual leave, plus three additional days over Christmas and bank holidays. 
• Pension Scheme: Defined contribution pension with employer contributions of up to 16%. 

• Health & Well-being: 

• 24/7 GP consultation services. 

• Occupational health services and mental health support programs. 

• Eye care vouchers and discounted healthcare plans. 

• Work-Life Balance: 

• Back-up 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, and shopping discounts. 

• Subsidised on-site restaurant and social spaces for team interaction. 

• Development & Recognition: Comprehensive training, mentoring, and a pay structure with performance-linked progression.