A day in the life at the Crick, featuring Professor Francesca Ciccarelli

When did you begin working at the Crick?

January 2017!

What was the aim of you working there?

Secondment of the whole lab to the Crick.

What drew you to want to work there?

It was one of the reasons why I decided to move from Italy, where my group was based at the time. I knew the stellar contributions to cancer research of several scientists based at the London Research Institute (one of the Crick founding Institutes) and the idea of working in the same environment was a big motivation to leave my Country.

What is an average day like for you at the Crick?

Frankly not different than in any other research Institute where I have worked - constantly trying to meet deadlines and preserve time for the science!

What is one thing you will take away from your time there?

I very much like Crick's philosophy - a strong organisation regarding all practical aspects of research, but a pretty horizontal approach to science. Having no established hierarchies or boundaries between disciplines fosters new collaborations and ideas.

What is your favourite and least favourite aspect?

My favourite aspect is the vibrant scientific environment and access to top-class research facilities. My least favourite aspect is that it is not always easy to maintain strong connections with the School or Department of provenience.

What would you say to someone thinking of applying for a staff attachment at the Crick?

Go for it!