Laboratory Research Scientist Nuclear Imaging

The Francis Crick Institute; Greater London; On-site; GBP 34,000 - 42,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Generous Leave

Pension Scheme

Health & Well-being programs

Work-Life Balance benefits

On-site restaurant discounts

Job summary

The Francis Crick Institute in the United Kingdom is seeking a Laboratory Research Scientist (Nuclear Imaging) to maintain and operate the nuclear imaging suite, including PET and SPECT systems. You will perform in vivo imaging studies, manage daily operations, calibrations, safety, procurement and data reporting, collaborating with Crick scientists and BRF staff.

Ideal candidates have a BSc in biomedical sciences or equivalent and proven experience with small animal imaging, regulatory

Qualifications

• Extensive experience with small animal models in a research setting is required.
• Proven track record in pre-clinical nuclear imaging.
• Experience using and maintaining pre-clinical nuclear imaging scanners (Mediso PET/SPECT).
• Experience handling radioactive sources and regulatory compliance for pre-clinical research.

Responsibilities

• Perform in vivo and ex vivo imaging studies using PET and SPECT.
• Conduct biodistribution studies with radio-labelled compounds.
• Maintain and calibrate PET‑MRI and SPECT‑CT scanners and related equipment.
• Manage replacement parts, consumables and procurement for the imaging suite.
• Develop and update SOPs, risk assessments, and safety practices.
• Train and supervise colleagues in imaging techniques and equipment usage.
• Ensure safe operation of imaging facilities and compliance with radiation safety.

Skills

Small animal models

Nuclear imaging experience

Independent planning

Team collaboration

Lab safety and compliance

Education

BSc in Biomedical Sciences

Tools

Mediso PET/SPECT

PET-MRI calibration

SARRP irradiator

Job description

Laboratory Research Scientist Nuclear Imaging

Salary for this Role: From £37,735 with benefits, subject to skills and experience.

Job title: Laboratory Research Scientist Nuclear Imaging

Reporting to: Thomas Snoeks, In Vivo Imaging Head of Operations

Contract term: This is a full-time permanent position on Crick terms and conditions of employment.

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.

Biological Research Facility

The Biological Research Facility (BRF) at the Francis Crick Institute supports all animal research through a comprehensive animal care and use programme, providing high‑quality laboratory animal resources, technical expertise, and in‑vivo/ex‑vivo research support. The BRF is committed to advancing animal welfare, improving scientific quality, supporting staff wellbeing, and maintaining transparency with stakeholders. Our multidisciplinary teams manage the husbandry of multiple species within state‑of‑the‑art facilities, integrating innovative technologies and specialist skills. Within the BRF, the In Vivo Imaging (IVI) Facility offers a suite of cutting‑edge multimodal imaging systems, including PET‑MR, SPECT‑CT, micro‑CT, high‑resolution ultrasound, optical imaging platforms, and a 9.4T MRI. These advanced technologies enable longitudinal, non‑invasive imaging of biological processes in living tissues, supporting a diverse range of research areas from developmental biology to oncology, immunology, neuroscience, and regenerative medicine.

About the role

We are looking for a Laboratory Research Scientist (LRS) to join the In Vivo Imaging team and play a vital role in supporting cutting‑edge scientific research by ensuring the effective operation, maintenance of the nuclear imaging suite. Working closely with Crick scientists, external collaborators and BRF staff, you will perform PET and SPECT imaging and biodistribution studies, provide specialist technical and experimental support, and contribute to the refinement and troubleshooting of imaging equipment and methodologies. The role encompasses the day‑to‑day management of the facility, including equipment calibration and maintenance, laboratory organisation, database management and procurement of supplies, alongside supporting data analysis and reporting. You will also develop and maintain risk assessments and standard operating procedures (SOPs), promote safe working practices, and train and supervise colleagues in key techniques, protocols and equipment use. Working collaboratively with BRF operations staff and the wider scientific community, you will contribute to a supportive, innovative research environment through participation in group meetings, journal clubs, seminars and scientific discussions.

What you will be doing

• To perform in vivo and ex vivo imaging studies for Crick scientists and external collaborators using nuclear imaging technologies PET and SPECT
• Perform biodistribution studies with radio‑labelled compounds
• Perform in‑vivo irradiations using a SARRP irradiator
• Maintain and calibrate the PET‑MRI and SPECT‑CT scanners, HIDEX gamma counter, and SARRP irradiator including organising servicing
• Maintain and calibrate radioactive monitoring and counting equipment
• To assist in the management and running of the nuclear imaging suite by: Ordering consumables and maintaining stocks of chemicals/reagents
• Assist with the development of standard operating procedures, health and safety compliance and maintaining and enforcing good laboratory practice
• Ensuring the imaging suite is safe and maintained in good working order working closely together with the radiation safety officer
• Administrative duties such as radioisotope logging and waste management
• Aid in general lab duties

About you

The post holder should have a BSc or equivalent experience in biomedical sciences, medical biology, veterinary medicine or related field. Additionally, they should embody and demonstrate our core Crick values: Bold; Open; Collegial.

Essential

• Extensive experience in working with small animal models in a research setting *
• Proven track record in pre‑clinical nuclear imaging *
• Experience in the use and maintenance of experimental pre‑clinical nuclear imaging scanners (Mediso PET and SPECT)*
• Experience in handling radioactive open sources
• Experience working in multidisciplinary research environments
• Ability to design imaging protocols tailored to specific research objectives
• Ability to collaborate effectively with internal and external partners
• Ability to plan own work activities independently
• Ability to set priorities and ensure effective service delivery
• Excellent organisational skills and record keeping
• Home Office personal licence (PIL A, B, C)
• Knowledge of regulatory frameworks for pre‑clinical research, including the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986 and the 3Rs principles *
• Excellent organisational skills
• Commitment to maintaining the highest ethical and scientific standards

* Minimum criteria

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 are a Disability Confident: Committed employer and 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.

What will you receive?

• 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.