Senior Laboratory Research Scientist (SLRS)

Second Renaissance; London; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading biomedical research institution seeks a Senior Laboratory Research Scientist to develop in vitro platforms for studying cell and tissue behavior in 3D environments. The role involves managing projects and collaborating with other teams to advance biomedical research in vital scientific areas such as Cancer, Immunology, and Neuroscience.

Qualifications

• PhD or Master’s degree in biomedical engineering or related field.
• Hands-on experience in developing microfluidic platforms and biomaterials.
• Proficient in device design and simulation.

Responsibilities

• Manage projects, providing data and research analysis.
• Collaborate with STPs to develop 3D human models.
• Support microfluidics and biomaterials activities.

Skills

Microfluidic platforms

Tissue-engineered constructs

Biomedical applications

Project management

Education

PhD or Master’s in biomedical engineering or related field

Tools

COMSOL

Fabrication techniques

Job description

Senior Laboratory Research Scientist (SLRS)

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 collaborate 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 seeking a highly motivated and creative scientist or engineer with a strong background in bioengineering, tissue engineering, and/or microfabrication and microfluidics to develop in vitro platforms for quantitative studies of cell and tissue behaviour in controlled 3D environments.

The successful candidate will join the Microfluidics and Biomaterials team within the Making Lab, playing a key role in advancing microphysiological systems that integrate microfabrication, biomaterials, and cellular components. You will lead the full project development cycle: system design, flow simulation, fabrication and characterisation to automation, experimental validation, iterative optimisation, implementation with the collaborating group and support on experiments and related publications.

The Making Lab is a Science Technology Platform (STP) working at the interface of engineering and biology. Its core objective is to support the advancement of biomedical research projects with a strong technological focus. Our multidisciplinary team develops innovative technological solutions to address complex research questions in a broad range of scientific areas, including Cancer, Development, Immunology, Infectious Disease, Neuroscience, Structural Biology, and Bioengineering. Our aim is to empower scientists with cutting-edge tools and technologies, offering specialised support and training in two core domains: Microfluidics & Biomaterials and Systems Engineering. The lab is a hub for creativity and collaboration, working closely with research groups, other STPs, and external academic and industrial partners.

What you will be doing…

• Initiate, develop, and manage projects in collaboration with Crick’s group reporting regularly to the head of Making lab and the Group Leader, providing experimental data and research analysis to support the development of a range of products and applications.
• Collaborate closely with Cell Science STP and Human Biology STP to develop 3D human models that better replicate physiological and pathological processes in vitro.
• Provide high quality service and support for the Microfluidics and Biomaterial activity in close collaboration with the Making Lab team.
• Develop a strong methodology to build bespoke systems for real-time feedback experiments covering Device design, Rapid prototyping, Flow control integration, Flow modelling & optimisation, Testing & troubleshooting, Automation support, Documentation & standards.
• Collaborate with Crick research groups and STPs to co-develop models that recapitulate physiological and pathological conditions in vitro.

About you…

The essential criteria you will bring…

• PhD or Master’s degree in biomedical engineering, engineering sciences, materials science, nanotechnology, biotechnology or a related field, or other education considered equivalent to these qualifications.
• Strong hands-on experience in the development of microfluidic platforms, tissue-engineered constructs, and/or biomaterials for life sciences.
• Proficiency in device design, simulation (e.g., COMSOL), fabrication techniques, and flow system integration.
• Experience in model validation (simulation, characterisation), microfluidics systems for biomedical applications, functional biomaterials for life science applications.
• Demonstrated experience with biomedical research environments and demonstrated ability to translate research needs into technological solutions.
• Excellent project management and organisational skills; able to balance independent projects with collaborative support roles.