MRC Postdoctoral Research Scientist/Lab Manager LMS 2666

Medical Research Council; London; Hybrid; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading scientific research laboratory in London seeks a Postdoctoral Research Scientist to advance understanding of genome architecture using innovative technologies. This hybrid role combines research and laboratory operations, providing a unique opportunity to develop independent research while mentoring junior members. A competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package are included.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Pension scheme

Access to world-class research facilities

Qualifications

• Ability to conduct high-quality independent research.
• Experience in mentoring junior researchers.
• Proficiency in developing experimental protocols.

Responsibilities

• Design and conduct independent research.
• Analyze and present experimental data.
• Mentor junior lab members and contribute to grant writing.

Skills

Research design and planning

Data analysis and interpretation

Experimental methods development

Collaboration

Mentoring

Education

PhD in a relevant field

Tools

Single-cell technologies

Multi-omics tools

Job description

Overall purpose:

To advance our understanding of genome architecture and epigenetic regulation using cutting-edge single-cell and multi-omics technologies.

About the Laboratory:

The Vaquerizas Laboratory at the MRC Laboratory of Medical Sciences is internationally recognised for pioneering research in 3D genome organisation, epigenomics and single-cell multiomics (, Hug et al., Cell 2017; Galan et al., Nature Genetics 2020; Ing-Simmons et al., Nature Genetics 2021). Our recent work focuses on understanding key processes in human and mouse development, male infertility, and epitranscriptomics, using cutting-edge genomic and transcriptomic technologies.

We take a multidisciplinary approach, integrating molecular biology, genomics, computational biology, and systems-level analyses to address fundamental biological questions. The lab fosters a collaborative and supportive research environment, encouraging independent scientific growth and offering access to state-of-the-art core facilities and training opportunities.

Thematic Research Interests:

• Single-cell multiomics and spatial transcriptomics
• 3D genome architecture and nuclear organisation
• Epigenomics and epitranscriptomics in development and disease
• Model systems including human, mouse, flies, worm and beyond
• Personal research interests and innovative ideas within these themes are strongly encouraged

About the Role:

This hybrid role combines active research with responsibilities that support laboratory operations, such as overseeing organisation, procurement, equipment maintenance, and safety compliance. The candidate will have the opportunity to pursue their own research within the lab’s focus areas while helping maintain a productive and well-functioning lab environment. The role may also involve mentoring junior lab members and contributing to grant writing and protocol development.

• Design, plan, and conduct high-quality, independent research aligned with the project aims
• Critically analyse, interpret, and present experimental data with scientific rigor and reproducibility
• Develop, refine, and implement experimental methods, protocols, and analytical techniques
• Stay current with relevant scientific literature and integrate new findings and methodologies into ongoing research
• Collaborate effectively with internal lab members and external partners, including participation in interdisciplinary projects
• Provide mentorship, training, and guidance to junior researchers and PhD students
• Contribute to the academic life of the institute by attending and participating in lab meetings, journal clubs, and seminar programmes
• Present research findings at national and international conferences and meetings
• Publish results in high-quality, peer-reviewed scientific journals
• Support the smooth running of the laboratory by contributing to shared responsibilities and day-to-day operations
• Support the preparation of research grant applications, including contributing to the development of proposals and gathering preliminary data

Additional information:

These are MRC Postdoctoral Research Scientist positions designed to support postdoctoral training and help establish successful research careers. During the fellowship, we are committed to providing mentorship for career development, including support for communication skills, grant writing, and scientific leadership.

We offer a highly attractive benefits package, including a competitive salary and pension scheme, as well as access to world-class research facilities and training programmes.