Research Fellow in Cancer Immunotherapy A4)

Postdoctoral Scientist Opportunity in Next-Generation Blood Cancer Immunotherapy at the University of Southampton

Are you a driven and innovative postdoctoral scientist passionate about making a tangible impact on the lives of patients battling acute myeloid leukaemia (AML)? The University of Southampton presents an exceptional opportunity to join a dynamic research team and contribute to a cutting-edge, Blood Cancer UK-funded programme dedicated to developing novel, off-the-shelf immunotherapies.

This three-year project, led by the esteemed laboratories of Dr. Salah Mansour and Dr. Ali Roghanian, focuses on harnessing the power of cytotoxic invariant Natural Killer T (iNKT) cells for the precise targeting of AML. This aggressive leukaemia presents a significant challenge with limited survival outcomes, making advancements in treatment critically important. Building on robust preliminary data, this role offers a unique chance to bridge the gap between fundamental and translational immunology, utilizing bespoke in vivo models to identify and exploit therapeutically relevant iNKT cell subsets.

As a Postdoctoral Scientist, you will be at the forefront of scientific discovery, leading critical studies on cytotoxic T cell mechanisms, overseeing preclinical validation, and advancing CAR-iNKT platforms specifically optimized for AML immunotherapy. This multidisciplinary role invites creative thinkers with a strong interest in tumour immunology, T cell engineering, and immunotherapy. You will collaborate with a diverse team encompassing immunology and bioinformatics experts, with access to state-of-the-art facilities including advanced flow cytometry, 10X Genomics, and in vivo imaging platforms.

Key Advantages for Your Career Path:

• Lead Cutting-Edge Research: Take ownership of significant research components, driving innovation in a high-impact field with direct patient relevance.
• Develop Translational Expertise: Gain invaluable experience in translating basic scientific findings into potential therapeutic applications, a crucial skill for career progression in translational medicine.
• Access World-Class Facilities: Work with advanced technologies and platforms that are at the forefront of immunological research, enhancing your technical skillset and research capabilities.
• Collaborate in a Multidisciplinary Environment: Engage with a diverse team of experts, fostering cross-disciplinary learning and expanding your professional network.
• Publish and Present Internationally: Contribute to high-impact publications and present your findings at national and international conferences, building your scientific profile and reputation.
• Mentor and Guide: Develop leadership skills by supervising and supporting junior researchers and students, a key step in advancing to senior research roles.
• Strong Institutional Support: The University of Southampton offers a vibrant ecosystem for translational immunology, with the Centre for Cancer Immunology (CCI) at its core, providing unparalleled opportunities for growth and collaboration.

Key Responsibilities Include:

• Designing, conducting, and analyzing in vitro and in vivo immunology experiments.
• Leading the optimization and functional assessment of human T cells and CAR T cells.
• Coordinating effectively with project collaborators and core facility staff.
• Accurately recording experimental data and presenting findings at various scientific forums.
• Contributing to the dissemination of research through publications and grant applications.
• Supervising and mentoring junior team members.

Essential Qualifications and Experience:

• A PhD (or nearing completion) in human T cell immunology, cancer biology, or a closely related field.
• Proven practical expertise in core immunological assays such as FACS and ELISA.
• Demonstrated ability to design and execute experiments using mouse models of cancer.
• Strong project management skills, with the ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, suitable for scientific audiences.

Desirable Skills and Experience:

• Experience with single-cell or bulk sequencing technologies (e.g., 10X Genomics).
• Familiarity with bioinformatics pipelines and large dataset interpretation.
• Hands-on experience in engineering human T cells or viral transduction.
• Possession of a Home Office Personal Licence.

Considerations for Aspiring Candidates:

This role is ideal for a scientist who thrives in a collaborative and intellectually stimulating environment. If you are looking to build a career at the intersection of immunology, cancer biology, and immunotherapy, this position offers a significant platform for growth. The opportunity to work on a project with direct translational potential for a significant unmet medical need should be a key motivator for candidates seeking to make a real-world impact. The University of Southampton's commitment to translational research and its strong connections with clinical and industry partners provide a robust framework for career development and future opportunities.

The start date is flexible, with November 2025 or soon after being ideal. Applicants nearing PhD completion will be considered, with the title of Senior Research Assistant awarded prior to PhD conferral and transitioning to Research Fellow upon successful defence.