Postdoctoral Project Research Scientist

Postdoctoral Project Research Scientist (Cell Biologist – targeted protein degradation)

Reports to: Kate Bishop, Principal Group Leader

Contract: This is a full-time, fixed term (up to 22 months) 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 motivated scientist to work in Dr Kate Bishop’s “Retroviral Replication Laboratory” Dr. Bishop’s group is focussed on the biology of retroviruses and host-retrovirus interactions aiming to understand how retroviruses replicate and interact with host factors and defence proteins in human disease.

Previously virological and structural studies in the Bishop and Taylor labs at the Crick characterized the mechanism by which HIV accessory proteins target cellular proteins for degradation (Schwefel et al, Nature 2014; Schwefel Cell Host & Microbe 2015).

The labs also have a wider interest in using Designed Ankyrin Repeat Proteins (DARPins) in basic research to study the early stages of HIV-1 infection and other cellular processes.

This collaborative project with AstraZeneca (AZ), is funded by the Crick Idea to Innovation initiative (i2i) and based primarily in the Bishop lab.

It combines aspects from both viral accessory protein and DARPin research to target specific cellular proteins for degradation.

The multidisciplinary project will require the application of state-of-the-art cell biology, virology, molecular biology, biochemistry and microscopy techniques employed within the Bishop lab and collaborate closely with structural biologists in Dr Ian Taylor’s Macromolecular structure laboratory.

Please see the full job description here.

See more information about the lab

What you will be doing

As a Postdoctoral Project Research Scientist at the Crick, you will be working on an independent research project.

Your specific objectives will include, but not limited to:

• Working on a multidisciplinary project aimed at targeting cellular proteins for degradation using viral accessory adaptor proteins combined with DARPin technology.
• Being responsible for developing retroviral vectors, together with cell-biological and biochemical techniques to examine DARPIin-accessory protein interactions with a variety of cellular targets.
• Working in close collaboration with Dr Ian Taylor’s laboratory at the Crick who are examining the structural biology of DARPins and viral accessory protein target recognition.
• Collaborating with AZ scientists on target selection and the application of phenotypic and cellular growth assays.

About you

You will have:

• PhD in the area of cell and molecular biology. Knowledge of retrovirology and restriction factors will be an asset.
• Relevant experience of virology research, including preparing and analysing lentiviral vectors.
• Relevant experience of molecular and cell biology.
• Experience of immunoblotting and microscopy.
• A proven record of research with the ability to organise and prioritise own work and maintain good laboratory records.
• A proven ability to communicate research orally and in writing.

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.