Research Fellow - Post-transplant lymphoma

Job Purpose

We are seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral researcher to investigate the immune and genetic drivers of post-transplant lymphoma (PTL). The position is based in the research group of Dr Heather Long, in the Institute for Immunology and Immunotherapy, initially for 20 months, with the potential for extension for a further 4 months.

PTL is a potentially fatal proliferative disease arising in immunosuppressed patients, often as a result of reactivation of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), an oncogenic virus that is normally under the lifelong control of the immune response. The post-holder will be responsible for the receipt and analysis of a coordinated collection of serial blood samples and tumour biopsy material from an ongoing Clinical Trial. These samples provide a unique opportunity to study the immune signature in the blood and tumour microenvironment at the time of PTL diagnosis, to investigate the viral and genetic drivers of the disease, and to determine the effect of therapy on the immune response.

This post is ideally suited for an individual with knowledge and experience of cancer immunology and associated laboratory techniques, and an understanding of working with clinical samples. The position offers an exciting opportunity to be involved in adjunctive studies to a clinical trial, and to work with experienced viral and cancer immunologists within the Cancer Immunology & Immunotherapy Centre and the Centre for Human Virology.

Person Specification

• First degree in biology, biomedical science or a related area
• PhD in immunology, viral immunity or cancer immunology
• Strong background knowledge of immunology and good working knowledge of viral and cancer immunology
• Proven track record in immunological techniques and ability to contribute to developing new ones
• Expertise in design, optimisation and implementation of multicolour flow cytometry panels
• Practical experience of molecular biology techniques
• Practical experience of immunohistochemistry
• Practical experience of isolation and culture of primary immune cells including T cells
• Knowledge of collection, storage, documentation and use of human tissue for clinical research
• Knowledge of techniques to assess the tumour microenvironment
• High level analytical capability and ability to use data analysis programs
• Self-motivated, pro-active and able to use initiative where appropriate
• Ability to effectively communicate and to present complex information clearly both orally and in writing
• Ability to assess resource requirements and use resources effectively
• Evidence of an ability to work individually and as part of a collaborative team
• Effective organisational skills and the ability to prioritise work to meet deadlines
• Understanding of and ability to contribute to broader management/administration processes
• Working knowledge of health and safety requirements within the laboratory