Postdoctoral Fellow – Moris Lab

Postdoctoral Fellow – Moris Lab

This is a full-time, four-year 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.

The Stem Cell & Human Developmental Biology Laboratory

Much remains to be discovered about the molecular and genetic basis of human embryonic development, especially regarding the emergence of the body plan. Research in the Developmental Models laboratory aims to uncover the principles of human embryonic development using the cutting-edge in vitro model systems. Our findings aim to unravel principles of embryogenesis, including the co-development of tissues and organ primordia.

About the role

This position is for a four-year Postdoctoral Fellow (PF) within the Stem Cell and Human Developmental Biology Laboratory led by Dr Naomi Moris.

The postholder will use mouse gastruloids to characterise the development of Primordial Germ Cell-like cells (PGCLCs), including their specification and epigenetic maturation. In particular, we are interested in using a variety of epigenetic characterisation methods to examine the degree of maturity of PGCLCs in a systematic manner. In addition, we can make use of the flexibility of mouse gastruloids to explore how initial PGCLC specification occurs and is coordinated with the neighbouring somatic cells.

If you have a strong background in stem cell biology, developmental biology or related fields, this may be a great opportunity for you to join the lab.

What you will be doing

You will be expected to collaboratively design a research project in agreement with the Group Leader. The position will involve using mouse pluripotent stem cells, organised as 3D embryo models called ‘gastruloids’, in order to explore how primordial germ cells (PGCs) are specified and mature. Epigenetic analyses of temporally changing PGCs will be used to stage-match the in vitro cells to their in vivo counterparts, and build a more wholistic picture of the molecular changes that underpin maturation status, at the systems biology level.

Please see the full job description here.

See more about the lab here.

About you

You will have:

• PhD in biology, genetics or similar
• Experience in leading their own research project
• Good knowledge and experience of pluripotent stem cell culture
• Competency in bioinformatics and systems biology approaches
• Track record of writing papers as evidenced by publications or submitted manuscripts in referred journals
• Ability to work independently and interacting within a group

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: 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 - 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: [email protected]

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.

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.