Crick is hiring a Postdoctoral Fellow to join Dr. Vivian Li’s laboratory and the CRUK Cancer Grand Challenges REWIRE-CAN programme. You will investigate cell state plasticity and therapeutic resistance in colorectal cancer, leveraging CRISPR screens, organoid models, and genomic analysis to reveal new treatment vulnerabilities.
What You'll Do
- Assess therapeutic response in primary colorectal cancer organoids in vitro and implanted tumours in vivo.
- Perform loss-of-function whole-genome and sub-genome CRISPR screens in vitro and in vivo to reveal treatment vulnerabilities.
- Conduct single-cell and spatial transcriptomic analysis of treated organoids and tumours.
- Perform computational modelling of cell state rewiring networks.
- Functionally validate identified targets in various tumour models.
- Test drug efficacy in mice.
- Liaise with members of the REWIRE-CAN team to perform experiments and communicate data and results.
- Write and contribute to the preparation of scientific manuscripts, reports, presentations and records of experimental plans and results.
- Supervise and provide technical advice to more junior members of the team when appropriate.
What We're Looking For
- A PhD in Developmental Biology, Stem Cell or Cancer Biology, or being in the final stages of PhD submission.
- Experience in 3D cancer organoid culture and tumour implantation studies.
- Experience in functional CRISPR screen methodologies.
- An excellent track record of research as evidenced by publications in referred journals.
Nice to Have
- Experience in advanced genomic sequencing and data analysis.
- Experience in spatial transcriptomic data analysis.
- Animal work experience.
- Experience in drug safety and efficacy studies.
- Evidence of data presentation at scientific meetings.
Technical Stack
- CRISPR-Cas9 screening
- 3D organoid culture
- Single-cell transcriptomics
- Spatial transcriptomics
- Computational modelling
- Genomic sequencing
- Mouse tumour models
Team & Environment
You will report directly to Vivian Li, Senior Group Leader. The role involves close collaboration with the wider REWIRE-CAN programme team.
Benefits & Compensation
- Salary from £45,500 with benefits, subject to skills and experience.
- Eligibility for visa sponsorship.
- 28 days annual leave plus three additional days over Christmas and bank holidays.
- Defined contribution pension with employer contributions of up to 16%.
- 24/7 GP consultation services, occupational health services and mental health support programs.
- Eye care vouchers and discounted healthcare plans.
- Back-up care for dependents and a childcare support allowance.
- Annual leave purchase options.
- Crick Networks offering diverse groups’ support, community and inclusive social events.
- Discounted gym memberships, bike-to-work scheme, and shopping discounts.
- Subsidised on-site restaurant and social spaces for team interaction.
Work Mode
This is an onsite role based at our labs in London, UK.
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.
