Research Technician

Myeloid-Derived Suppressor Cells (MDSCs) are a heterogenous group of myeloid cells found in the blood and tumours of patients with cancer. They suppress anti-cancer immune responses and are associated with a worse prognosis in patients. Although they are recognised to play an important role, the ability to define this population remains controversial limiting diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.

In this project the technician will help the group isolate MDSCs from the blood and tumours of patients. In collaboration with research partners, we will test the ability of these cells to suppress T cell immunity, and characterise these cells through a range of techniques. We will also test the ability of new antibodies to target these cells and restore immune responses.

We are looking for a candidate with prior experience of working with MDSCs, to fulfil this exciting opportunity.

The group has a number of adult and paediatric solid tumour and haematological studies ongoing.

Group leads are:

Dr Francis Mussai – CRUK Clinician Scientist and Clinical Senior Lecturer/ Honorary Consultant in Paediatric Oncology

Dr Carmela De Santo – Cancer Research UK Career Development Fellow

• The group is supported by a number of high profile grant funders including: Cancer Research UK, Children with Cancer, Birmingham Children’s Hospital, and a number of national paediatric cancer charities. First degree in a Biological/ Immunological speciality
• Ability to competently use core laboratory techniques (not limited to) tissue culture, flow cytometry immunophenotyping, human blood and tissue cell separation and isolation (Lymphoprep and MACS sorting), ELISA, Western Blotting, and molecular biology.
•  Prior work on MDSC isolation and testing of novel drugs/ inhibitors
• Previous work in accordance with Good Clinical Practise Standards