Post Doctoral Research Associate

Job description

Applications are invited for an enthusiastic and motivated Post Doctoral Research Associate to join the laboratory of Dr Jacqui Shields based at the KCL Comprehensive Cancer Centre, and part of the School of Cancer and Pharmaceutical Sciences. The Shields Lab focuses on detangling immune suppressive networks within the tumour microenvironment, revealing the mechanisms by which effective immune responses are lost to instead promote disease. We have the ultimate aim of using the knowledge gained to develop new therapeutic approaches that reinstate effective tumour immunity.

The successful candidate will drive an exciting project to determine the potential of localized magnetic thermal therapy for reprogramming the tumour immune microenvironment to treat breast cancer, and define the underpinning mechanisms. As part of your work, you will take advantage of state-of-the art multiplexed imaging and flow cytometry based applications to quantify composition, phenotype and spatial landscape of the tumour microenvironment upon treatment.

Candidates should have (or be close to finishing) a PhD in cancer immunology or related field.

This post will be offered on an a fixed-term contract for 1 years in the first instance

This is a full-time post - 100% full time equivalent

Key responsibilities

• Design and conduct experiments as part of a high quality research work programme
• Work closely with the project lead and other stakeholders to refine project goals
• Maintain accurate and up to date research records
• Prepare and present findings to diverse audiences including group meetings, internal seminars, collaborators and external meetings.
• Keep abreast with relevant literature, and contribute to drafting of papers and reports relating to the project
• Assist with training and informal supervision of students as required
• Comply with health and safety regulations and promote a safe working environment
• assist in the preparation of project-related manuscripts, proposals and applications to external bodies, e.g. for funding

The above list of responsibilities may not be exhaustive, and the post holder will be required to undertake such tasks and responsibilities as may reasonably be expected within the scope and grading of the post.

Skills, knowledge, and experience

Essential criteria

1. PhD (or be close to finishing) in cancer immunology or related subject
2. Strong track record in cancer, immunology or stromal biology
3. Hold a Home Office personal license (or have passed personal licensee modules 1-4)
4. Demonstrated experience of in vivo work
5. Demonstrated experience of laboratory techniques including tissue culture, immune function assays, Multi-parameter flow cytometry
6. Good time management, organization skills and ability to prioritize work
7. Excellent communication skills, including analysis and presentation of data to different stakeholders
8. Ability to interact well with colleagues and work as part of a team
9. Willing to take a role in the supervision of Research Students

Desirable criteria

1. Experience with hyperthermia modalities
2. Experience of 2D and 3D in vitro co-culture models consisting of e.g. cancer cells, CAFs and immune cells
3. Experience of mass cytometry (sample preparation and downstream analysis) and large data set analysis tools
4. Experience of multiplexed imaging techniques and associated image analysis

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