Research Associate in Cancer Immunology

Role Description

Role 

We are looking for an enthusiastic postdoctoral researcher with experience in immunology to lead an exciting cancer immunology project funded by York Against Cancer in the group of Professor Dimitris Lagos (https://www.hyms.ac.uk/about/people/dimitris-lagos). The project will explore how novel transcriptome features of human T lymphocytes affect their ability to survive within the tumour microenvironment and effectively kill cancer cells. The post-holder should have experience in human immunology and/or cancer immunology. The post will be a springboard for development of further skills in RNA biology and medicine and its application in cancer immunology. There will also be the opportunity to gain experience in analysis of transcriptomics data and interpretation. 

The project aims to discover novel molecular mechanisms driving T cell function that can be used to develop novel cancer immunotherapies. The work will be supported by available expertise in the group and a vibrant research environment in cancer research including colleagues in the Jack Birch Unit for Molecular Carcinogenesis and the Centre for Blood Research. Excellent core facilities within the York Biosciences Technology Facility offer access to cutting-edge equipment. The work will benefit by a wide network of collaborations with clinical partners, including our participation in the national immunotherapy research platform (https://www.manifest-io.org.uk), providing further opportunities for networking and career development.  

Applicants should be familiar with current concepts in human T cell biology and cancer immunology, including having practical experience, and an interest in gene regulation and RNA medicine. We place huge value and have a strong track record in professional development of our lab members. Support will be provided through strong mentoring, integration within the greater research community, and access to appropriate¿training opportunities. 

The role is available on a fixed term basis for up to 36 months. 

Skills, Experience & Qualification needed 

• A PhD in a relevant area (e.g. Human T cell biology, Cancer Immunology, Cancer Biology, Cancer RNA Biology or Medicine) 
• Experience with in vitro models of immune function (e.g. lymphocyte differentiation, tissue organoids, etc), ideally human.  
• Experience with molecular and cellular immunology laboratory techniques (e.g. flow cytometry, immunofluorescent staining and confocal microscopy, etc) 
• Experience with cell culture and molecular cell biology techniques (e.g. RNA extraction, qRTPCR, gene knockdown, western blotting) 
• Experience with interpretation and functional analysis of transcriptomics data  
• Good communication skills, attention to detail and commitment to high quality 
• Positive attitude to colleagues and students and a willingness to work proactively 
• Commitment to personal development and values of equality, diversity, and inclusion 

Interview date: To be confirmed

For informal enquiries: please contact Dimitris Lagos on dimitris.lagos@york.ac.uk

The University strives to be diverse and inclusive – a place where we can ALL be ourselves.

We particularly encourage applications from people who identify as Black, Asian or from a Minority Ethnic background, who are underrepresented at the University. 

We offer family friendly, flexible working arrangements, with forums and inclusive facilities to support our staff. #EqualityatYork

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