Scientist - Protein Science Pipeline | 12 months FTC

Immunocore Holdings PLC; Oxford; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A biotechnology company in Oxford seeks an experienced researcher to engineer ImmTAX molecules for pipeline advancement. The successful candidate will design experiments, analyze results, and collaborate within a diverse team. Candidates should have a BSc/MSc in a related field and several years of relevant experience, including protein engineering and purification techniques.

Qualifications

• Several years' experience in protein expression and purification methods.
• Experience in analyzing protein-protein interactions.
• Competent in the safe use of general laboratory equipment.

Responsibilities

• Design and conduct experimental investigations.
• Produce DNA constructs for expression and libraries for screening.
• Analyze and report experimental results.

Skills

Protein expression in bacterial and/or mammalian systems

Protein purification using column chromatography

Analysis of protein-protein interactions using SPR

Molecular cloning of DNA constructs

Construction of DNA libraries

Attention to detail

Time management

Communication skills

Education

BSc or MSc in protein engineering, biochemistry, molecular biology

Tools

SPR (BIAcore)

ӒKTA system

Job description

Overview

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. At Immunocore, we recognize that our employees are our greatest asset. We value the unique contributions each person brings to our team. By embracing Science, Trust, Respect, Integrity, Diversity, and Entrepreneurship (STRIDE), we create an environment where collaboration thrives, ideas flourish, and transformative changes happen. STRIDE represents more than just letters; it embodies our shared identity and drives our mission. We are dedicated to developing breakthrough therapies that transform patients' lives, advancing medicine, and supporting one another in these pursuits. Immunocore is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. As such, we are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Role Purpose

The main purpose for the incumbent in this role is to engineer ImmTAX molecules to support advancement of pipeline programs. This includes identification and characterization of wild type TCRs, affinity and specificity engineering and production of engineered molecules for further assessment. The individual works effectively within established procedures, potentially introducing new methodologies.

Responsibilities

• Design and independently conduct experimental investigations, with guidance from line manager or colleagues where appropriate
• Designing and producing DNA constructs for TCR, antibody and ImmTAX expression and DNA libraries for affinity maturation
• Identifying specific TCRs from TCR-phage libraries through series of selection rounds
• Perform TCR affinity maturation using phage display to identify high affinity and specific molecules
• TCR and ImmTAX expression in mammalian and bacterial cells and purification via affinity tags or using ion-exchange and size exclusion chromatography (ӒKTA system)
• Analysing TCR and ImmTAX binding affinity, kinetics and specificity using SPR (BIAcore)
• Independently analyse and report experimental results and present at company meetings
• Work collaboratively with scientists from other groups and functional areas
• Maintain accurate records of all work by following Company procedures

Education, Experience and Knowledge

Experience and Knowledge - Essential

• Several years' experience in a number of the following areas:
• o Protein expression in bacterial and/or mammalian systems
• o Protein purification using column chromatography methods and ӒKTA system (such as via affinity tags, ion exchange and size exclusion)
• o Analysis of protein-protein interactions using SPR (BIAcore)
• o Molecular cloning of DNA constructs (primer design, PCR and gel electrophoresis)
• o Construction of DNA libraries and screening using display technologies
• Ability to work independently and actively contribute in a diverse, collaborative team environment
• Competent in the safe use of general laboratory equipment
• Recorded results in a concise and timely way, and in compliance with agreed standards
• Worked and contributed actively to a diverse team environment
• High attention to detail, excellent time management and communication skills

Essential Qualifications

• BSc. Or MSc. in protein engineering, biochemistry, molecular biology or related discipline
• Typically requires a minimum of 3+ years of related experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• PhD in related discipline