View Vacancy -- Research Support Officer - Cell Biology - Dr Madeline Lancaster - LMB 2788

The MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology (LMB) is one of the birthplaces of modern molecular biology and has played an important role in the development of many new techniques, most notably protein crystallography, cryo-electron microscopy, DNA sequencing and monoclonal antibodies. The LMB has a clear goal of understanding biological processes at the molecular level, with the ultimate aim of using this knowledge to tackle specific problems in human health and disease. We aim to tackle difficult, long-term problems, which often require investment over many years.

There are four scientific Divisions - Structural Studies, Protein and Nucleic Acid Chemistry, Cell Biology and Neurobiology. However, scientific collaboration between the different Divisions is extensive. Scientists are well supported by excellent scientific facilities and by the LMB Operations Group which maintains the core infrastructure and services of the institute.

The LMB provides an unsurpassed environment for both new and established researchers. Scientists are drawn to the LMB from all over the world, thus creating a lively and international community for the exchange of ideas and technical innovation.

Overall purpose: 

To work within the group of Dr Madeline Lancaster at the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology (LMB), within a programme aimed at understanding brain development in cerebral organoids. Specifically, to undertake research to investigate human-specific differences in neuronal differentiation and maturation.

The human brain is larger and more complex than that of other mammals, but how these differences arise is still unclear. We are using brain organoids, and in vitro model of developing brain tissue, to investigate this question and to identify fundamental differences that set the human brain apart. In particular, we have discovered key differences in how human neurons grow axons to build longer range connections than mice. We are now exploring the molecular mechanisms of these differences and aim to test these in various other contexts including neural stem cells.

Main duties/key responsibilities:

•    To undertake research aimed at uncovering human specific mechanisms underlying differences in differentiating axons.
•    To perform a range of support duties that may include some but not necessarily all of:
         o    Maintaining organoids and cell lines in culture
         o    Microscopic analyses of organoids and neurons
         o    Molecular methods generating tools and reagents to support the project
•    To present information on research progress and outcomes as appropriate.
•    To conduct literature and database searches.
•    To contribute to the production of research reports and publications.

To plan and manage your experimental work within the project along with your supervisor and other members of the project team.

To ensure the research is carried in accordance with good practice and in compliance with local polices and legal requirements.

To contribute to the smooth running of the research group, including the effective use of resources, training of others and taking responsibility for use of communal facilities. 

Working relationships: 

You will report to Dr Madeline Lancaster and will interact and collaborate with other Postdoctoral Scientists, Research Support staff and students, not only in your group, but also across the LMB and with external groups as necessary.

Additional information:

This is a full-time position, but part-time or flexible hours may be considered. The applicant must be available to start late March/early April 2026.

Academic qualifications: 

Essential: Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in science, informatics, engineering or mathematics.

Desirable: Relevant Masters or equivalent relevant bioinformatic experience.

Previous work experience required: 

Essential:
•    Basic understanding of molecular and cell biology.
•    Experience of basic tissue culture skills/techniques (e.g. splitting cells, sterile culture technique).

Desirable:
•    Previous experience in an area of neuroscience and/or developmental biology.
•    Experimental techniques relevant to the role, which could include (but not limited to):
         o    Stem cell culture techniques
         o    Tissue histological approaches such as cryosectioning and immunohistochemistry
         o    Confocal microscopy

Knowledge and experience: 

Creativity and initiative
Essential: 
•    Ability to plan and carry out experiments, collate and analyse data.
•    Understanding of lab health and safety.

Desirable: Practical experience of running and maintaining scientific equipment.

Independent working
Essential: Proven skills in working independently and as part of a team with minimal supervision; good judgment in assessing when to ask for support. 

Desirable: Can independently advance existing techniques and implement new methods.

You must at all times carry out your responsibilities with due regard to the UKRI: 
•    Code of Conduct
•    Equality, Diversity and Inclusion policy
•    Health and Safety policy
•    Data Protection policy

Job descriptions should be reviewed on a regular basis and at the annual appraisal. Any changes should be made and agreed between you and your manager.

The above lists are not exhaustive and you are required to undertake such duties as may reasonably be requested within the scope of the post. All employees are required to act professionally, co-operatively and flexibly in line with the requirements of the post, the MRC and UKRI.  

The role holder will be required to have the appropriate level of security screening/vetting required for the role. UKRI reserves the right to run or re-run security clearance as required during the course of employment.