Postdoctoral Project Research Scientist – Sahai Lab

Francis Crick Institute; City Of London; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent biomedical research institute in London seeks a Postdoctoral Project Research Scientist to drive research on tumor microenvironment and therapy responses. The ideal candidate will have a PhD and expertise in biological modeling. This full-time role includes opportunities for collaboration and professional development in a dynamic research environment.

Benefits

Generous annual leave

Pension scheme with employer contributions

Mental health support programs

Discounted gym memberships

Career support programs

Qualifications

• Strong track record of writing papers, evidenced by publications in referred journals.
• Proficiency in analytics and numerical problem-solving.

Responsibilities

• Developing new physics-informed in silico models of tumour-stroma interactions.
• Presenting data at internal meetings and external conferences.
• Collaborating with key internal and external stakeholders.

Skills

Modelling biological patterns

Coding and data analysis

Collaborating with experimental biologists

Education

PhD in related fields

Job description

Job title: Postdoctoral Project Research Scientist – E Sahai laboratory

Reports to: Erik Sahai, Principal Group Leader

Contract: This is a full‑time, fixed‑term 12‑month 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.

About the role

We are looking for a talented and passionate Postdoctoral Project Research Scientist to join the Sahai Lab.

The lab is dedicated to studying and understanding how the tumour microenvironment influences the spread of cancer and how it responds to therapies.

The group uses research techniques such as cell culture, alongside mathematical modelling to understand emergent behaviour in the tumour microenvironment.

The Project

As a Postdoctoral Project Research Scientist, you will drive an independent research project in order to develop insight into the spatial organisation of tumours and ways in which it might be changed to favour tumour elimination.

At the end of the project, we anticipate the PPRS will have gained a strong understanding of the physical mechanisms underpinning spatial patterns, whilst also developing new quantitative models.

What you will be doing

You will be responsible for:

• Developing new physics‑informed in silico models of tumour‑stroma interactions
• Implementing computational models and interpreting the results
• Presenting data at internal meetings and external conferences
• Collaborating with key internal and external stakeholders, and supervising junior researchers
• Upholding the continuous improvement culture within the lab

Click here to read more about the lab

See the full job description here

About you

You will have:

(Minimum criteria *)

• PhD awarded or in the final stages of PhD submission in related fields.
• Strong track record of writing papers, as evidenced by publications or manuscript submissions in referred journals.
• Strong expertise in modelling biological patterns, applying advanced physics to biological systems.
• Proficiency in analytics and numerical problem‑solving, with excellent coding and data analysis skills.
• Experience collaborating with experimental biologists, contributing effectively to interdisciplinary projects.

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 are a Disability Confident employer and want to ensure that everyone can apply and be part of our recruitment processes and 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: [e-mail].

Find out more about life at the Crick.

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:

• Visas: Applicants for this role will be eligible for sponsorship to work in the UK
• 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.
• Career support: A Post‑doc to PI programme and other career development activities.

Please note you must meet the essential criteria listed within the Role Profile, to have your application reviewed.

We reserve the right to withdraw this advert at any given time due to the number of applications received.