Senior Microscopist

The Francis Crick Institute; Epsom; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

The Francis Crick Institute seeks a Senior Microscopist to join the Advanced Light Microscopy team. This full-time role involves training scientists, maintaining advanced microscopes, and supporting cutting-edge research in a dynamic environment. Candidates should have a PhD in neuroscience and strong programming skills.

Benefits

Generous Leave

Pension Scheme

Health & Well-being support

Gym memberships

On-site restaurant

Qualifications

• Experience building or adapting two-photon microscopes for research.
• Experience developing and using laser-scanning microscopes for research.
• Ability to troubleshoot microscope problems.

Responsibilities

• Train scientists in advanced imaging methods, especially multi-photon microscopy.
• Maintain and develop a block-face serial-sectioning two-photon microscope.
• Support research projects involving microscopy hardware and software development.

Skills

Programming skills

Troubleshooting

Enthusiasm for science and imaging

Education

PhD in neuroscience

Degree in a physical or life science

Tools

MATLAB

Python

Linux Bash

Job description

Senior Microscopist

Details of the role:

This is a full-time, permanent position on Crick Terms and Conditions of Employment.

Working pattern: Monday - Friday.

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 fosters collaboration, innovation, and exploration across disciplines. It is a space where the brightest minds pursue big ideas and discover answers to crucial scientific questions. We support a dynamic environment with state-of-the-art infrastructure, cutting-edge facilities, and a creative culture. Our open approach removes traditional boundaries, supporting every researcher to take risks and conduct pioneering research, ultimately translating science into benefits for human health and the economy.

About the role

We are seeking a Senior Microscopist to join the Advanced Light Microscopy team at the Francis Crick Institute. Candidates should hold a PhD in neuroscience and have experience building or adapting two-photon microscopes for research purposes. This role offers an excellent opportunity to contribute to our cutting-edge research.

You will collaborate with the CALM team to support light microscopy within the STP, aligning with the Crick's research strategy. The supported methods include wide-field fluorescence, multi-mode long-term time-lapse, point and array laser scanning, super-resolution, and lightsheet microscopies.

You will advise and assist researchers in using multi-photon microscopy, including experimental design, imaging live and fixed specimens, developing protocols, and analyzing data.

The role involves supporting health and safety by writing and evaluating laser safety risk assessments. The Senior Microscopist will also ensure microscopes are well maintained and will train researchers on their proper use.

What you will be doing

As a Senior Microscopist at the Crick, you will:

• Train scientists in advanced imaging methods, especially multi-photon microscopy
• Maintain and develop a block-face serial-sectioning two-photon microscope
• Support research projects involving microscopy hardware and software development
• Assist with organizing equipment demonstrations and procurement
• Help interpret and present microscopy data
• Communicate findings to internal and external audiences

About you

You will bring:

• Enthusiasm for science and imaging
• A degree in a physical or life science
• Strong programming skills (e.g., MATLAB, Python, C, Fiji, Linux Bash, ScanImage)
• Experience developing and using laser-scanning microscopes for research
• Experience with alignment and maintenance of imaging equipment, including Class IV lasers
• Ability to troubleshoot microscope problems and liaise effectively with engineers

See more about this Science Technology Platform

See the full job description

About Working at the Crick

Our values

Everyone who works at the Crick has a valuable role in advancing our mission and shaping our culture!

• We are bold. We encourage creative, dynamic, and imaginative ideas and approaches. We are not afraid to do things differently.

• We are open. We promote collaboration and visibility of our activities to the outside world.

• We are collegial. We show respect, work cooperatively, and support our community.

We believe diversity and inclusion are essential for innovation and discovery. We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and respected. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds and abilities. We are a Disability Confident: Committed employer and will make reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process. For assistance, contact: weronika.kucala@

To learn more about life at the Crick, click here.

What will you receive?

At the Crick, we offer extensive benefits to support well-being and development:

• Visas: Sponsorship available for this role to work in the UK

• Generous Leave: 28 days annual leave plus additional days over Christmas and bank holidays

• Pension Scheme: Defined contribution with up to 16% employer contributions

• Health & Well-being:

• 24/7 GP services
• Occupational health and mental health support
• Eye care vouchers and healthcare discounts

• Work-Life Balance:

• Dependent care support
• Childcare allowance
• Annual leave purchase options

• Perks:

• Gym memberships, bike schemes, shopping discounts
• On-site restaurant and social spaces

• Development & Recognition:

• Training, mentoring, and performance-based progression