An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Postdoctoral Researcher to join the Parkes lab, a vibrant and collaborative team dedicated to investigating the tumour microenvironment of chromosomally unstable cancers. Under the supervision of Professor Eileen Parkes, the successful candidate will be responsible for modelling and analysing the tumour microenvironment, with a particular focus on melanoma and oesophageal adenocarcinoma.

 

This role centres on understanding the mechanisms of tumour–immune cell communication, particularly in the context of chromosomal instability. You will apply a range of cutting-edge techniques, including in vitro modelling, molecular biology (co-IP, qPCR, Western blotting), co-culture systems, CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing, flow cytometry, in vivo experiments, and ex vivo culture.

 

You will also investigate cGAS-STING signalling, regulation at the endoplasmic reticulum, and T cell phenotypes and trafficking. A key aspect of the role includes bioinformatic analysis of RNAseq data and in vivo modelling of cancer.

In addition to leading your own research, you will provide guidance and support to junior members of the lab, including PhD and project students, research assistants, and technicians. You will also contribute to the development of new research proposals and help shape future project directions.

 

This full-time post initially fixed-term for 1 year, based at the Old Road Campus Research Building, Oxford.

 

 

You will hold a relevant DPhil/PhD or be within three months of submission, along with proven experience in tumour microenvironment or immunology. You should have a Home Office Personal Licence and hands-on experience with tumour models.

You will bring expertise in chromosomal instability, the cGAS-STING pathway, and T cell biology, with a track record of publications and conference presentations at national and international levels.

Technical proficiency should include CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing, cell and co-culture systems, molecular biology techniques, multispectral flow cytometry, and bioinformatic analysis of transcriptomic (RNAseq) datasets. 

Experience with image analysis, particularly for immunofluorescence, is desirable.

 

You should be confident managing your own academic research, generating ideas for new research directions, and contributing to the preparation of funding applications. Strong communication skills, a collaborative mindset, and the ability to provide mentorship to junior colleagues are essential.

 

 

Applications for this position must be submitted online. Please upload a supporting statement that clearly outlines how you meet the selection criteria, along with your curriculum vitae and the names and contact details of two referees as part of your online application.

Only applications received before noon on 16th April 2025 (UK time) will be considered.

 

 

We genuinely care about our employees’ wellbeing and offer a range of benefits, including:

We are seeking to appoint a Postdoctoral Research Scientist to join Dr Carol Leung’s research group at the Oxford Centre for Immuno-Oncology. The research group focuses on developing novel immunotherapies against cancer, primarily on developing cancer vaccines that aim to stimulate the body's immune system to target and kill cancer cells. This project is part of the GO-PRECISE program, focuses on the development of preventative vaccines against cancer. We are seeking a passionate and motivated individual to join our team to contribute to cutting-edge cancer vaccine research. This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to innovative, translational research within a collaborative and dynamic setting. You will work closely with scientists and industry collaborators to drive forward this ambitious research programme.

 

You will support studies on cancer vaccine development using in vivo and in vitro techniques. Specifically, you should have experience with immunological methods such as co-culture assays, multicolor flow cytometry (FACS), ELISA, and in vivo tumour models. Additionally, familiarity with molecular biology techniques, including PCR, and Western blotting, is essential.

 

You will be responsible for managing your academic research and administrative activities, including small-scale project management to coordinate multiple tasks and meet deadlines. You will conduct original research, analyse complex qualitative and/or quantitative data, and refine working hypotheses. Collaboration with colleagues in research groups and industry partners will be key, as well as contributing ideas for new projects and research funding. You will assist in preparing scientific reports and journal articles, present findings, and represent the research group at external meetings. Additionally, you will provide training or guidance to less experienced team members, use specialist scientific equipment, and support laboratory upkeep. Other comparable duties may be assigned to ensure the efficient running of the laboratory.

 

It is essential that you hold a PhD (or be close to completion) in Biological Science, Biomedical Science, Immunology, or a related field. You should be proficient in in vitro techniques, including cell culture and FACS analysis, and have sufficient specialist knowledge and experience in tumour immunology to contribute effectively to the research programme. Strong organisational skills are required to manage multiple projects with competing priorities while delivering high-quality results. Excellent communication skills are essential, including the ability to write publishable text, present data at conferences, and represent the research group at meetings. You will have experience in following and adapting protocols, selecting appropriate experimental methodologies, and in vivo handling.

 

Applications for this vacancy are to be made online and you will be required to upload a supporting statement and CV as part of your online application. Your supporting statement must explain how you meet each of the selection criteria for the post using examples of your skills and experience.

 

This position is offered full time on a fixed term contract until 31 December 2027 and is funded by GSK.

 

Only applications received before 12 midday on 17 April 2025 will be considered. Please quote 178621 on all correspondence.