Postdoctoral Fellow - Cellular signalling and cytoskeletal function lab

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. 

To learn more about the Crick, click here.

About the role

We are seeking a highly motivated and independent post-doctoral scientist to work on a project examining the role of molecular motors (myosins and kinesins) and the cytoskeleton (actin, septin and microtubules) during vaccinia virus egress. This work will employ a combination of biochemical, structural and cellular approaches, including advanced live cell imaging and in vitro motility assays

Click here to read more about the Way lab

What you will be doing

The focus of the project will depend on the candidates own interests, while aiming to address the questions outlined above, using a combination of biochemical, structural and cellular approaches. These will include advanced live cell imaging and in vitro motility assays to understand the role of molecular motors (kinesins and myosins), as well as microtubules, actin and septins in the assembly and egress of vaccinia virus. 

You will:

• Perform live cell imaging to track cytoskeletal, motor and viral dynamics in real time.
• Perform biochemical and cell based assays to determine how virions interact with kinesins, myosins, septins and other host factors.
• Use in vitro motility assays to reconstitute and analyse motor‑driven transport of virions.
• Manipulate host cells (e.g., siRNA, CRISPR, inhibitors) to test how specific pathways, motors or cytoskeletal components affect viral movement and egress.
• Contribute to other projects on a collaborative basis
• Guide PhD students in their research
• Lead on projects

Please see full job description here along with relevant recent lab publications

About you  

You will bring 

You will have:

• A PhD in biochemistry, cell or molecular biology *
• Good knowledge and experience in signalling and cytoskeleton*
• Technical expertise in imaging, cell biology and/or biochemistry *
• Track record of writing papers as evidenced by publications or submitted manuscripts
• Evidence of data presentation at scientific meetings
• Ability to work independently and also capable of interacting within a group
• Experience in live cell imaging and image analysis (desirable)

*Minimum Criteria

About Working at the Crick 

Our values  

• 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 Crick, we believe that diversity and inclusion are essential to driving innovation and scientific discovery. If you need assistance with your application, please contact karen.au@crick.ac.uk.

To read more about our EDI approach, click here.  

What will you receive?  

We value our team members and are proud to offer an extensive range of benefits to support their well-being and development. You can find out more about what we offer here.

Advert information