Research Fellow - Development of Therapeutics

University of Southampton; Eastleigh; On-site; GBP 36,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading UK university is seeking a Research Fellow to advance therapeutic development in cancer immunology. The successful candidate will contribute to innovative research, producing engineered antibodies and employing cutting-edge techniques. A PhD in a relevant field and expertise in immunology techniques are essential. The role offers a competitive salary and is based in Southampton, with an initial two-year term.

Qualifications

• Outstanding background with high-quality publications in immunology or antibodies.
• Relevant academic qualifications and work experience required.
• Excited by challenges in biological processes and therapeutic development.

Responsibilities

• Develop novel antibody-based therapeutics.
• Evaluate therapeutics using advanced microscopy techniques.
• Understand biological processes for engineered antibody production.

Skills

Flow cytometry

Fluorescence microscopy

In-vitro cellular assays

Mouse disease models

Strong IT skills

Education

PhD in a relevant field

Job description

Section: Immunology

Location: Southampton General Hospital

Salary: £36,130 to £44,128

Full Time Fixed Term (24 Months)

Closing Date: Sunday 04 January 2026

Reference: 3165525CM-R

Research Fellow – Development of Therapeutics

The position will be held in the Centre for Cancer Immunology at Southampton General Hospital. This centre builds on a 40-year history of pioneering immunology and cancer research at Southampton and represents the first dedicated cancer immunology centre in the UK. Activities span from pioneering discovery science to applied research, pre‑clinical modelling, and ultimately first‑in‑human clinical trials. The centre houses world‑class research facilities, including state‑of‑the‑art laboratories and a clinical trials unit.

The role is associated with the laboratory of Professors Ward and Ober. Their interdisciplinary programme focuses on developing novel antibody‑based therapeutics, several of which are in late‑stage clinical trials or approved. The group also develops advanced microscopy techniques for evaluating therapeutics in cellular environments. Their work is supported by major grants from the Wellcome Trust, Cancer Research UK, and collaborating biopharma companies.

The appointee will be highly motivated and excited by the challenges of using mechanistic approaches to understand fundamental biological processes, with the goal of generating engineered antibodies for use as therapeutics in cancer and autoimmune disease. The ideal candidate will have an outstanding background, including high‑quality publications, in cellular techniques related to immunology and/or antibodies, such as flow cytometry, fluorescence microscopy, and other in‑vitro cellular assays. Experience with mouse disease models is also desirable.

Scientific knowledge equivalent to a PhD* level is required. The post‑holder should possess relevant academic qualifications and work experience, as well as strong IT skills. Non‑UK citizens are welcome to apply.

The position is for an initial two years, with anticipated funding beyond that period.

Informal enquiries should be directed to Professor E. Sally Ward ([e-mail]).