Senior Laboratory Research Scientist

The Human Biology Facility (HBF) provides support and expertise to enable research utilising human materials and data, and to develop capability in core areas relating to stem cells, genetic modification and human model systems. We provide support to Crick researchers, including our growing number of clinical scientists, throughout the study lifecycle including sourcing human materials, navigating governance frameworks, evidencing compliance, and providing expert technical services. We facilitate access to tissues, data, and expertise that will underpin our research to benefit human health.

This SLRS Gene editing role will sit within the HBF remit, however, will work in collaboration with the existing Gene Modification Service (GeMS) and the Human Embryonic Stem cell Unit (HESCU). The primary focus is on supporting extensive editing work with human cells, particularly pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), using advanced CRISPR/Cas strategies. Services offered encompass creating custom-edited cell lines with various allele types, stem cell training, and project consultation. With the support of GeMS, you will play a pivotal role in the setup and development of this service for the HBF, including critical infrastructure development, equipment procurement, and laboratory layout design.

Key responsibilities

• Lead and coordinate diverse research projects within the HBF
• Play a pivotal role in collaboration with Genetic Modification Service to establish and shape Gene Editing for HBF, including critical infrastructure development, equipment procurement, and laboratory layout design.
• Work collaboratively with the Crick STPs relevant to the running of this service, specifically engaging actively with the Genetic Modification Service on research and design of engineering strategies.
• Work with Head of Lab Operations and the Head of GeMS to expand a new resource for Group leads
• Maintain and develop relevant expertise in CRISPR and gene editing used by the science through consultation, literature review and attending scientific meetings.
• Provide internal and external training in gene editing.
• Focus on extensive editing work with PSCs, including knockouts, single-base variants, and conditional loss-of-function alleles.
• Offer stem cell gene editing training and project consultation services to faculty and staff.
• Efficiently allocate and utilize resources within the facility.
• Collaborate with several teams across the Crick to advance research and scientific objectives.
• Innovate to address key scientific challenges necessary for project success, providing candidates with examples or context to understand the scope.
• Establish and Maintain Policies and Procedures: Implement and manage lab operations, biosafety protocols, and ethical research practices.
• Write reports, protocols, and Standard Operating Procedures.
• Deliver Reports and Presentations: Communicate findings effectively to various audiences, including scientific reports, progress updates, and presentations for funding proposals.

Key requirements

• An MSc/PhD and proven experience in a relevant field
• Possess considerable relevant experience with a track record of achievement and demonstrable skill in genome engineering, molecular biology and stem cell techniques
• Experience with iPSC or human ES cell culture and differentiation and an understanding of the specific challenges associated with these cell types.
• Extensive experience in cell engineering and genome editing, including CRISPR/Cas strategies.
• Experienced in the use genome browsers, DNA analysis software and CRISPR/Cas guide on/off target specificity software.
• Experience of contributing effectively to the work of a team with a flexible and collaborative approach.
• Able to work independently and drive a project forward through good project planning, time-keeping, organizational and record-keeping skills.
• An understanding of health and safety requirements in relation to genetic engineering of cell lines

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