Scientists discussing their recent results.
© Noel Murphy

Physically and conceptually, The Francis Crick Institute will be at the heart of biomedical research in the UK.

As well as generating important findings and driving forward the translation of research, the Institute will be a site to which many kinds of researchers will gravitate, for a variety of reasons and for varying periods.

Some may be drawn by a particular course or conference, others by the chance to learn a new experimental technique. Some may develop lasting collaborations with researchers at the Institute or take up the opportunity to become visiting fellows. For an aspiring researcher, it will be seen as the ideal location in which to develop a career.

In addition, the Institute's emphasis on personal development, and the need to maintain a flexible and diverse workforce, will lead to a constant stream of researchers with additional skills, experience and contacts able to move into other parts of the UK biomedical science infrastructure. There they can continue to develop their career and research, and thereby contribute to the long-term success of biomedical research.

In time The Francis Crick Institute will grow to house some 1500 staff, making it one of Europe's largest centres of biomedical research in one building. Groups spanning the biological, clinical and physical sciences will share insight and techniques to capture a more complete understanding of life's processes.

The Francis Crick Institute will blur the boundaries between 'academic', 'industry' and 'public sector' research, promoting interactions and collaborations to accelerate translation and innovation. Clinical liaison and technology transfer will be both encouraged and valued.