Crick Group
Salary for this Role: From £45,500 per annum with benefits, subject to skills and experience Job Title: Postdoctoral Fellow - Johnson Lab Reports to: Eachan Johnson Closing Date: 02/May/.59 GMT Job Description: Postdoctoral Fellow - Johnson Lab Contract term: This is a full-time, fixed term (4 years) position on Crick terms and conditions of employment. Reports to: Eachan Johnson, Group Leader Salary for this Role: From £45,500 with benefits, subject to skills and experience Application requirements: Please attach the following separate documents to your application in PDF format: a cover letter (maximum one page) your CV a description of how your specific experience and skills align with the essential criteria (maximum two pages) a short description of a project that you would like to pursue in our lab. Include references (maximum 300 words excluding references) Application Deadline: Saturday 2nd May 2026 at 11.55pmThe 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 Systems Chemical Biology of Infection and Resistance Lab The lab, which opened in January 2021 and is supported by Crick core funding, the UKRI Horizon Europe Guarantee, BBSRC and the Gates Foundation, explores how pathogenic bacteria survive and cause infection.Working at the interface of genetics, chemical biology and machine learning, the team develops small molecules to disrupt key bacterial processes and understand their impact on survival, infection and resistance. We have developed approaches to study multiple bacterial pathogens in parallel, with a primary focus on Klebsiella pneumoniae and Mycobacterium tuberculosis . The work aims to inform next-generation antimicrobial therapies. About the Project We are seeking a Postdoctoral Fellow to spearhead a project exploring how Mycobacterium tuberculosis survives drug treatment.Using CRISPRi-based genetic screens and single-cell approaches, you will investigate how gene expression variability drives drug-tolerant subpopulations. This role sits at the intersection of molecular genetics, chemical biology and data science, with strong scope for innovation and collaboration.Working closely with the team, you will drive experimental design, develop new methods, analyse large-scale datasets and contribute to publications. You will also support training and help foster a collaborative lab environment. What you'll be doing You will be responsible for: Designing experiments and research strategy in consultation with the PI Carrying out experiments and analysing data Keeping accurate and timely records of their work Engaging in professional development and growth Liaising with external collaborators Presenting work at Lab meetings, conferences and consortium meetings Drafting manuscripts for publication About you Essential: (Minimum criteria ) PhD (or near completion) in biological engineering, chemistry, chemical biology, molecular biology, microbiology or a related field. Strong experience in bacterial molecular genetics, including CRISPRi and familiarity with high-containment laboratory environments. Experience with flow cytometry, ideally within bacterial systems. Solid understanding of next-generation sequencing and core bacterial processes (replication, transcription and translation). Experience analysing large biological datasets using Python or R. Ability to work both independently and collaboratively, with strong organisation, attention to detail and communication skills. Clear motivation to apply interdisciplinary and quantitative approaches to scientific research. Desirable Experience working with Mycobacterium tuberculosis . Experience in high-throughput screening Experience facilitating scientific collaborations. Familiarity with public health challenges related to tuberculosis Familiarity with high-performance computing (HPC). 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: 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. Career support: A Post-doc to PI programme and other career development activities 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.
Salary for this Role: From £45,500 per annum with benefits, subject to skills and experience Job Title: Postdoctoral Fellow - Johnson Lab Reports to: Eachan Johnson Closing Date: 02/May/.59 GMT Job Description: Postdoctoral Fellow - Johnson Lab Contract term: This is a full-time, fixed term (4 years) position on Crick terms and conditions of employment. Reports to: Eachan Johnson, Group Leader Salary for this Role: From £45,500 with benefits, subject to skills and experience Application requirements: Please attach the following separate documents to your application in PDF format: a cover letter (maximum one page) your CV a description of how your specific experience and skills align with the essential criteria (maximum two pages) a short description of a project that you would like to pursue in our lab. Include references (maximum 300 words excluding references) Application Deadline: Saturday 2nd May 2026 at 11.55pmThe 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 Systems Chemical Biology of Infection and Resistance Lab The lab, which opened in January 2021 and is supported by Crick core funding, the UKRI Horizon Europe Guarantee, BBSRC and the Gates Foundation, explores how pathogenic bacteria survive and cause infection.Working at the interface of genetics, chemical biology and machine learning, the team develops small molecules to disrupt key bacterial processes and understand their impact on survival, infection and resistance. We have developed approaches to study multiple bacterial pathogens in parallel, with a primary focus on Klebsiella pneumoniae and Mycobacterium tuberculosis . The work aims to inform next-generation antimicrobial therapies. About the Project We are seeking a Postdoctoral Fellow to spearhead a project exploring how Mycobacterium tuberculosis survives drug treatment.Using CRISPRi-based genetic screens and single-cell approaches, you will investigate how gene expression variability drives drug-tolerant subpopulations. This role sits at the intersection of molecular genetics, chemical biology and data science, with strong scope for innovation and collaboration.Working closely with the team, you will drive experimental design, develop new methods, analyse large-scale datasets and contribute to publications. You will also support training and help foster a collaborative lab environment. What you'll be doing You will be responsible for: Designing experiments and research strategy in consultation with the PI Carrying out experiments and analysing data Keeping accurate and timely records of their work Engaging in professional development and growth Liaising with external collaborators Presenting work at Lab meetings, conferences and consortium meetings Drafting manuscripts for publication About you Essential: (Minimum criteria ) PhD (or near completion) in biological engineering, chemistry, chemical biology, molecular biology, microbiology or a related field. Strong experience in bacterial molecular genetics, including CRISPRi and familiarity with high-containment laboratory environments. Experience with flow cytometry, ideally within bacterial systems. Solid understanding of next-generation sequencing and core bacterial processes (replication, transcription and translation). Experience analysing large biological datasets using Python or R. Ability to work both independently and collaboratively, with strong organisation, attention to detail and communication skills. Clear motivation to apply interdisciplinary and quantitative approaches to scientific research. Desirable Experience working with Mycobacterium tuberculosis . Experience in high-throughput screening Experience facilitating scientific collaborations. Familiarity with public health challenges related to tuberculosis Familiarity with high-performance computing (HPC). 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: 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. Career support: A Post-doc to PI programme and other career development activities 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.
Ellison Institute, LLC
Oxford, Oxfordshire
At the Ellison Institute of Technology (EIT), we're on a mission to translate scientific discovery into real world impact. We bring together visionary scientists, technologists, engineers, researchers, educators and innovators to tackle humanity's greatest challenges in four transformative areas: Health, Medical Science & Generative Biology Food Security & Sustainable Agriculture Climate Change & Managing CO Artificial Intelligence & Robotics This is ambitious work - work that demands curiosity, courage, and a relentless drive to make a difference. At EIT, you'll join a community built on excellence, innovation, tenacity, trust, and collaboration, where bold ideas become real-world breakthroughs. Together, we push boundaries, embrace complexity, and create solutions to scale ideas from lab to society. Welcome to the Generative Biology Institute: Led by Founding Director Jason Chin, the Generative Biology Institute (GBI) at the Ellison Institute of Technology is tackling the key challenges in making biology engineerable, and thereby unlocking the unrivalled power of biology for the benefit of humanity. The vision of the GBI is to lay the foundations for engineering biology, and unlock its potential for good. To achieve this, we must overcome two key challenges. First, we need the ability to write in the natural language of biology, enabling the rapid and scalable synthesis of entire genomes with precision. Second, we must understand what to write - determining which DNA sequences will generate biological systems that perform the desired functions. Addressing these challenges will allow us to harness the full power of biology to create transformative solutions across health, agriculture, clean energy and more. The Generative Biology Institute commenced operations in 2025, occupying newly renovated bespoke space in the Oxford Science Park. The team will later move to a purpose made facility in the Oxford Science Park, currently under construction. Once complete, this state of the art facility will include more than 40,000 m of research laboratory and office space. It will house over 30 groups and up to 600 employees at scale, focused on solving the two critical challenges in making biology engineerable and applying the solutions to addressing the global challenges encapsulated in EIT's Humane Endeavours. The Zuercher Lab We are seeking ambitious, creative, and highly skilled Postdoctoral Researchers to join the Zuercher Lab at GBI. The Zuercher Lab, led by Principal Investigator Jerome Zuercher, focuses on two interconnected areas, with many projects involving aspects of both topics (Genome synthesis and Genetic Isolation). Genetic Isolation A direct consequence of the universality of the genetic code is the possibility for genetic information to be transferred between evolutionarily distant species. Such horizontal transfer of genetic information (as opposed to vertical genetic transfer, where information is passed on from an organism to its progeny) is common in nature and has shaped evolution over billions of years. In the context of genetic engineering, however, this type of genetic spillover is highly concerning. Prevention of interference of artificial genetic information with natural biology is critical to allow biotechnological progress to be both safe and ambitious. Furthermore, biotechnology will play a central role in addressing pressing challenges in food security, pharmaceutical development, sustainable fuel sources, and efficient carbon fixation. Thus, essential parts of the economy will increasingly rely on bioproduction facilities harbouring tailor made microbes. It is therefore critical that such facilities are extremely reliable. However, due to the universality of the genetic code, engineered organisms are just as susceptible to viral invasion as natural organisms. In fact, a single viral particle that finds its way into a bioproduction facility can force its operational shutdown. Altering the genetic code of a cell provides an opportunity to render natural and synthetic genetic information incompatible. This breakthrough offers a means to protect the environment from genetically engineered organisms and, vice versa, engineered organisms critical for bioproduction from viral invasion. Through concerted efforts in genome recoding and translational engineering, it was possible to create the first organism with a synthetic genetic code. Since this organism "speaks a different language" than organisms found in nature, it is genetically isolated; it can neither give nor receive genetic information from the environment. The lab continues the development of altered genetic codes to increase the safety of biotechnology and aims to rewrite even the most complex biological systems in alternative synthetic genetic codes. Genome synthesis Our ability to write DNA has recently expanded to the genomic scale. The possibility of defining every single base in the genome of a cell enables manipulation of the most fundamental cellular properties, such as the genetic code. However, current genome synthesis methods are slow, narrow in scope, and limited in scale. To date, the genomes of only two bacteria have been successfully synthesized. This project aims to develop methodologies to make the synthesis of model organism genomes (i.e. E. coli) more rapid and enable the synthesis of the genomes of non model bacteria to broaden the scope of genome synthesis. The ability to routinely synthesize the genomes of a diverse set of organisms will not only allow reprogramming of the genetic code but also facilitate testing of generative genome designs. Ultimately, the combination of microbial genome synthesis and artificial intelligence will enable biological design at the organism scale with implications in bioproduction, human health, agriculture, and beyond. Learn more at jzlab.bio How to Apply Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. In your cover letter, please clearly explain your fit, interest, and relevant experience for joining the group. All applications must be submitted exclusively through the EIT job portal. If you would like to discuss this role in more detail, prior to submitting an application, please contact Jerome Zuercher at . Due to the volume of applications, the review and decision process may take 3-6 months. Key Responsibilities: Design, execute, and troubleshoot experiments, including the development of novel methodologies and adaptation of existing techniques to new applications. Analyse complex datasets using computational and statistical tools, interpreting results in the context of broader research goals. Contribute intellectually to the research direction by identifying opportunities for innovation and refining research questions. Prepare and publish high quality scientific papers, reports, presentations, and protocols. Present research at national and international conferences, seminars, and internal meetings. Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams within GBI, EIT, and external partners to advance complementary workstreams. Build and maintain research infrastructure, laboratory capabilities, and cutting edge technologies. Mentor and support junior researchers, including PhD students and research assistants. Translate research findings into commercial or translational opportunities in alignment with EIT's mission. Identify and pursue opportunities for intellectual property generation and protection. Ensure research activities comply with EIT's policies, legal requirements, and best scientific practice. This list is not exhaustive and the role holder may be required to undertake additional tasks and duties commensurate with the role. Essential and Desirable Knowledge, Skills and Experience: Completed a PhD in a relevant field (e.g., synthetic biology, computational biology and AI, microbial, plant and human cell biology, genomics, robotics and automation, and nucleic acids chemistry). Track record of delivering ambitious research projects to a high standard. Strong track record in research, ideally in molecular biology, synthetic biology, or related fields. Skilled in data analysis and interpretation; experience with genomic analysis, automation, or computational tools desirable. Proven ability to work independently, think creatively, and solve complex experimental problems. Experience publishing in high impact journals and presenting at international conferences. Excellent organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple concurrent projects. Strong written and verbal communication skills, with experience collaborating in multidisciplinary teams. Capacity to build and sustain productive collaborations internally and externally. Resilience, adaptability, and enthusiasm for working in a fast paced, high growth research environment. Our Benefits: Salary: Competitive + travel allowance + bonus Enhanced holiday pay Pension Life AssuranceIncome Protection Private Medical Insurance Hospital Cash Plan Therapy Services Perk Box Electric Car Scheme Working Together - What It Involves: You must be eligible to work in the UK with a willingness to travel as necessary. We are open to sponsoring employment visas for this role; however sponsorship is not available for all visa types or in all circumstances . click apply for full job details
At the Ellison Institute of Technology (EIT), we're on a mission to translate scientific discovery into real world impact. We bring together visionary scientists, technologists, engineers, researchers, educators and innovators to tackle humanity's greatest challenges in four transformative areas: Health, Medical Science & Generative Biology Food Security & Sustainable Agriculture Climate Change & Managing CO Artificial Intelligence & Robotics This is ambitious work - work that demands curiosity, courage, and a relentless drive to make a difference. At EIT, you'll join a community built on excellence, innovation, tenacity, trust, and collaboration, where bold ideas become real-world breakthroughs. Together, we push boundaries, embrace complexity, and create solutions to scale ideas from lab to society. Welcome to the Generative Biology Institute: Led by Founding Director Jason Chin, the Generative Biology Institute (GBI) at the Ellison Institute of Technology is tackling the key challenges in making biology engineerable, and thereby unlocking the unrivalled power of biology for the benefit of humanity. The vision of the GBI is to lay the foundations for engineering biology, and unlock its potential for good. To achieve this, we must overcome two key challenges. First, we need the ability to write in the natural language of biology, enabling the rapid and scalable synthesis of entire genomes with precision. Second, we must understand what to write - determining which DNA sequences will generate biological systems that perform the desired functions. Addressing these challenges will allow us to harness the full power of biology to create transformative solutions across health, agriculture, clean energy and more. The Generative Biology Institute commenced operations in 2025, occupying newly renovated bespoke space in the Oxford Science Park. The team will later move to a purpose made facility in the Oxford Science Park, currently under construction. Once complete, this state of the art facility will include more than 40,000 m of research laboratory and office space. It will house over 30 groups and up to 600 employees at scale, focused on solving the two critical challenges in making biology engineerable and applying the solutions to addressing the global challenges encapsulated in EIT's Humane Endeavours. The Zuercher Lab We are seeking ambitious, creative, and highly skilled Postdoctoral Researchers to join the Zuercher Lab at GBI. The Zuercher Lab, led by Principal Investigator Jerome Zuercher, focuses on two interconnected areas, with many projects involving aspects of both topics (Genome synthesis and Genetic Isolation). Genetic Isolation A direct consequence of the universality of the genetic code is the possibility for genetic information to be transferred between evolutionarily distant species. Such horizontal transfer of genetic information (as opposed to vertical genetic transfer, where information is passed on from an organism to its progeny) is common in nature and has shaped evolution over billions of years. In the context of genetic engineering, however, this type of genetic spillover is highly concerning. Prevention of interference of artificial genetic information with natural biology is critical to allow biotechnological progress to be both safe and ambitious. Furthermore, biotechnology will play a central role in addressing pressing challenges in food security, pharmaceutical development, sustainable fuel sources, and efficient carbon fixation. Thus, essential parts of the economy will increasingly rely on bioproduction facilities harbouring tailor made microbes. It is therefore critical that such facilities are extremely reliable. However, due to the universality of the genetic code, engineered organisms are just as susceptible to viral invasion as natural organisms. In fact, a single viral particle that finds its way into a bioproduction facility can force its operational shutdown. Altering the genetic code of a cell provides an opportunity to render natural and synthetic genetic information incompatible. This breakthrough offers a means to protect the environment from genetically engineered organisms and, vice versa, engineered organisms critical for bioproduction from viral invasion. Through concerted efforts in genome recoding and translational engineering, it was possible to create the first organism with a synthetic genetic code. Since this organism "speaks a different language" than organisms found in nature, it is genetically isolated; it can neither give nor receive genetic information from the environment. The lab continues the development of altered genetic codes to increase the safety of biotechnology and aims to rewrite even the most complex biological systems in alternative synthetic genetic codes. Genome synthesis Our ability to write DNA has recently expanded to the genomic scale. The possibility of defining every single base in the genome of a cell enables manipulation of the most fundamental cellular properties, such as the genetic code. However, current genome synthesis methods are slow, narrow in scope, and limited in scale. To date, the genomes of only two bacteria have been successfully synthesized. This project aims to develop methodologies to make the synthesis of model organism genomes (i.e. E. coli) more rapid and enable the synthesis of the genomes of non model bacteria to broaden the scope of genome synthesis. The ability to routinely synthesize the genomes of a diverse set of organisms will not only allow reprogramming of the genetic code but also facilitate testing of generative genome designs. Ultimately, the combination of microbial genome synthesis and artificial intelligence will enable biological design at the organism scale with implications in bioproduction, human health, agriculture, and beyond. Learn more at jzlab.bio How to Apply Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. In your cover letter, please clearly explain your fit, interest, and relevant experience for joining the group. All applications must be submitted exclusively through the EIT job portal. If you would like to discuss this role in more detail, prior to submitting an application, please contact Jerome Zuercher at . Due to the volume of applications, the review and decision process may take 3-6 months. Key Responsibilities: Design, execute, and troubleshoot experiments, including the development of novel methodologies and adaptation of existing techniques to new applications. Analyse complex datasets using computational and statistical tools, interpreting results in the context of broader research goals. Contribute intellectually to the research direction by identifying opportunities for innovation and refining research questions. Prepare and publish high quality scientific papers, reports, presentations, and protocols. Present research at national and international conferences, seminars, and internal meetings. Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams within GBI, EIT, and external partners to advance complementary workstreams. Build and maintain research infrastructure, laboratory capabilities, and cutting edge technologies. Mentor and support junior researchers, including PhD students and research assistants. Translate research findings into commercial or translational opportunities in alignment with EIT's mission. Identify and pursue opportunities for intellectual property generation and protection. Ensure research activities comply with EIT's policies, legal requirements, and best scientific practice. This list is not exhaustive and the role holder may be required to undertake additional tasks and duties commensurate with the role. Essential and Desirable Knowledge, Skills and Experience: Completed a PhD in a relevant field (e.g., synthetic biology, computational biology and AI, microbial, plant and human cell biology, genomics, robotics and automation, and nucleic acids chemistry). Track record of delivering ambitious research projects to a high standard. Strong track record in research, ideally in molecular biology, synthetic biology, or related fields. Skilled in data analysis and interpretation; experience with genomic analysis, automation, or computational tools desirable. Proven ability to work independently, think creatively, and solve complex experimental problems. Experience publishing in high impact journals and presenting at international conferences. Excellent organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple concurrent projects. Strong written and verbal communication skills, with experience collaborating in multidisciplinary teams. Capacity to build and sustain productive collaborations internally and externally. Resilience, adaptability, and enthusiasm for working in a fast paced, high growth research environment. Our Benefits: Salary: Competitive + travel allowance + bonus Enhanced holiday pay Pension Life AssuranceIncome Protection Private Medical Insurance Hospital Cash Plan Therapy Services Perk Box Electric Car Scheme Working Together - What It Involves: You must be eligible to work in the UK with a willingness to travel as necessary. We are open to sponsoring employment visas for this role; however sponsorship is not available for all visa types or in all circumstances . click apply for full job details