Postdoctoral Project Research Scientist

Details of the role: This is a full-time, fixed-term (two years) 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. 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, curious culture. We have an open approach that removes traditional boundaries between departments, divisions, and disciplines, fostering high-quality, pioneering research. Our goal is to translate scientific discoveries into benefits for human health and the economy.

About the role

We are seeking an experienced Postdoctoral Project Research Scientist to join our team. You will lead your own independent projects and contribute to developing innovative tools and technologies that advance our research. You will work in a collaborative and diverse group dedicated to understanding how a functional, beating heart forms during development. Your work will involve applying expertise in cutting-edge imaging technologies, image analysis, and biophysical approaches. The specific projects will be tailored to your background and interests in close consultation with your supervisor.

The heart is the first organ to form and function during embryonic development. A key process is chamber maturation, where the myocardial wall transforms from a single-layered epithelium into a complex 3D architecture. Our lab aims to uncover the mechanical, molecular, and geometric interactions that drive this transformation, using zebrafish models, quantitative imaging, transcriptomics, biophysics, genetics, and theoretical modeling.

What you will be doing:

As a PPRS you will:

• Develop and establish new tools and techniques, including advanced 4D live imaging of zebrafish hearts, image analysis pipelines, biophysical force measurement methods, and gene-editing tools.
• Conceptualize and lead research projects.
• Provide expert guidance and technical support to lab members, fostering knowledge exchange and skill development.
• Contribute to other projects collaboratively within the lab and with external partners.
• Actively contribute to scientific publications.
• Help cultivate a collaborative, inclusive, and stimulating lab environment.

About you

You will bring:

• PhD (or near completion) in cell biology, developmental biology, or biophysics.
• Proven expertise in advanced confocal and light-sheet microscopy, demonstrated by publications.
• Excellent molecular biology skills.
• Experience in embryological techniques (zebrafish, fly, mouse) and gene editing methods.
• Ability to write scientific papers, as evidenced by publications and/or preprints in relevant fields.