Senior Research Scientist - Santos Lab

This is a full-time, 1-year fixed-term position on Crick terms and conditions of employment.

Summary

The Quantitative Stem Cell Biology lab, headed by Dr. Silvia Santos, is seeking a Senior Laboratory Research Scientist (SLRS). The successful candidate will investigate the spatio-temporal control of cell division and cell cycle remodelling during cellular differentiation using 2D and 3D stem cell-based models of human gastrulation. The postholder will lead a research project and contribute to collaborative projects within the lab. They will benefit from excellent mentorship and training within a vibrant, collegial scientific community at the Santos lab and the Francis Crick Institute.

The research group

The Quantitative Stem Cell Biology lab, established in 2018 at the Francis Crick Institute, focuses on understanding cell decision-making. Current research includes regulatory mechanisms of cell fate specification, cell cycle remodeling during differentiation, and the interplay between metabolism, cell cycle, and cell fate. The lab emphasizes single-cell analysis and advanced live-cell imaging, using models such as mouse and human embryonic stem cells (ESC), 3D organoids, and mouse embryos.

The team is multidisciplinary, diverse, and includes PhD students, postdoctoral fellows, and a principal research scientist. The lab promotes independent, creative thinking and provides excellent training and mentorship.

Key responsibilities

1. Lead specific research projects under the supervision of the Group Leader.
2. Attend and participate in group meetings and seminars.
3. Maintain accurate records of all work.
4. Train junior colleagues as appropriate.
5. Contribute to scientific manuscript preparation.
6. Participate in the lab hESC feeding rota.
7. Foster a positive and motivating lab environment.

Key experience and competencies

The candidate should embody the Crick values: bold, imaginative, open, dynamic, and collegial, alongside the following:

Essential qualifications, experience, and competencies:

• PhD in a relevant Life Sciences area.
• Extensive experience in Molecular Biology.
• Experience with cell culture techniques.
• Experience with imaging/microscopy.
• Motivation and/or experience in understanding cell division in development and/or disease.
• Excellent organizational skills, including meticulous record-keeping.
• Strong interpersonal skills for effective collaboration.
• Proven ability to work independently, contributing to publications.

Desirable qualifications, experience, and competencies:

• Experience with stem cell culture, particularly hESCs/iPSCs.
• Prior experience with image analysis.
• Analytical mindset.
• Track record of publishing scientific papers.

The position will close once an appropriate candidate is found. We encourage early application.