Principal Scientist I - Translational Medicine

Immunocore (NASDAQ: IMCR) is a pioneering, commercial-stage T cell receptor biotechnology company whose purpose is to develop and commercialize a new generation of transformative medicines which address unmet patient needs in oncology, infectious diseases and autoimmune disease. Our leaders in R&D are internationally recognised as some of the biotech industry's most successful drug developers. We are creating not just an environment where great minds can interact but an innovation powerhouse answering the big questions.
Focused on delivering first-in-class biological therapies to patients, we have developed a highly innovative soluble TCR platform. Our ImmTAX molecules underpin a new generation of precision engineered drugs that harness the immune system to treat a broad spectrum of diseases with high unmet medical need, including oncology, infectious diseases and autoimmune diseases.
We strive to create a diverse and inclusive workplace, while seeking talented individuals to work with us across the many functions that will allow us to deliver new medicines to transform the lives of patients. You will work with outstanding people who together pioneer the research, development and commercialization of bi-specific TCR therapies. We aim to create an environment where individual contributions and initiatives can be maximized, while fostering a culture of collaboration, based on respect and integrity. We want each individual employee to own their career, as part of high-performing teams, and in the context of on-the-job and formal continuous development and training, as well as constructive feedback. We always strive to identify ways to improve what we do and how we do it, by asking questions, voicing opinions, exploring various approaches and staying connected with healthcare professionals, patients, academia and other key partners.
The Translational Medicine Lab plays a pivotal role at Immunocore, generating biological data from both clinical trial and pre-clinical experimental samples in order to advance understanding of our platform and ultimately improve patients' health. We are now looking for an enthusiastic Principal scientist I to join our team. The successful candidate will lead multiple projects aimed at understanding the mechanism of action of our ImmTAX therapeutics.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead efforts to understand the impact of the tumour micro-environment on ImmTAX responses using clinical samples, 2D and 3D tumour co-culture in vitro systems
* Lead and provide support for MOA studies using in vivo mouse models with external collaborators and contract research organisations (CROs)
* Act as the go-to-person for microscopy-led activities and develop live cell imagining techniques for the visualisation of ImmTAX-mediated killing of target cells for the purpose of understanding MOA and providing evidence of platform strength
* Establish assays to quantify target expression levels and establish target expression thresholds for ImmTAX safety and potency
* Actively publish generated work externally at relevant conferences and high impact publications
* Establish and cultivate cross functional networks internally and with external collaborators
* Line-manage, mentor, and set objectives for junior members of the TM Lab team to deliver on the company's objectives
* Keep up to date with the latest research/advances in own area of expertise
Experience and Knowledge
Essential
* Advanced knowledge of Immunology or Immuno-oncology
* In depth experience in a range of cellular techniques and immunoassays including Elispots, ELISA, flow cytometry, multiplex assays, and killing assays.
* In depth knowledge of microscopy techniques
* Experience with mouse models, e.g. NSG.
* Excellent oral and written communication skills.
* Demonstrated ability to plan and work to agreed deadlines and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
Desirable
* Experience in complex cell culture models including myeloid based cell systems, 3D cultures, and organoids
* Ex vivo analysis of tumour biopsies and tumour infiltrating lymphocytes
* Experience in mentoring and supervision of junior staff
* Experience in application of GCP principles to the analysis of clinical trial samples
Education and qualifications
* PhD in Immunology, Immuno-Oncology, or related discipline
* Considerable industrial or post-doctoral academic experience
* Demonstrated record of scientific accomplishments including high impact publications and presentations at conferences