Research Associate at University of Bristol

The role

We are seeking a post-doctoral research associate to work on a recently awarded Cancer Research UK (CRUK) Discovery Programme Grant entitled ‘Identification of antigens targeted by T-cells mediating Graft-versus-Leukaemia (GvL) and Graft-versus-Host Disease (GvHD) following Stem Cell Transplantation (SCT)’. Stem cell transplants given to patients contain ‘alloreactive’ T-cells which come from the donor. The ability of ‘alloreactive’ T- cells from the donor to recognize and remove residual leukemic cells plays a major role in the curative action of SCT and is known as the Graft-versus-Leukaemia (GvL) effect. However, in a proportion of SCT recipients, an effective GvL response does not occur resulting in relapse and in many cases subsequent death due to the original leukaemia. In addition, alloreactive T-cells from the graft can recognize and damage healthy patient tissue resulting in Graft-versus-Host Disease (GvHD). The symptoms of GvHD can be severe and can result in up to 50% mortality.

The purpose of this research is to gain a better understanding of the antigens targeted by alloreactive T-cells mediating GvL and/or GvHD in patients following stem cell transplantation for the treatment of Acute Myeloid Leukaemia. The aim of this research is to generate data that will enable the future design of strategies to improve clinical outcomes following stem cell transplantation. The project will involve the isolation, culture and characterisation of alloreactive T-cells from patient samples, polychromatic flow cytometry, T-cell effector function assays, peptide library-based antigen discovery, lenti-viral transduction, manufacture of pMHCI tetramers and molecular biology.

What will you be doing?

The successful candidate will join the Clinical T-cell Immunology research group which is led by Professor Linda Wooldridge. The research group is located within the Biomedical Sciences Building. The post holder will be responsible for the day-to-day organisation and undertaking of the research, liaising with the clinical team to ensure efficient sample collection, isolation and culture of T-cells from patient samples, performing polychromatic flow cytometry, conducting T-cell effector function assays, performing peptide library-based screening, lenti-viral transduction, production of soluble proteins (such as pMHCI monomers) and molecular biology. The successful candidate will also be responsible for analysis of data and dissemination of research such as writing of scientific papers and presenting at scientific meetings.

For more information, please read the further particulars.

You should apply if

• You have a PhD (awarded or imminent) in Immunology or a related discipline.
• You have experience in culturing T-cells and mammalian cell lines.
• You have experience of polychromatic flow cytometry.
• You have experience in conducting T-cell effector function assays.
• You have skills in molecular biology e.g. PCR, cloning etc.
• You have a proven ability for technical writing (e.g. writing reports, publications etc.) and in the dissemination of research outcomes.
• You possess good time management skills and the ability to prioritise and work independently and as part of a team.

Additional information

Contract type: Open-ended with funding until 29/06/2029

School/Unit: Bristol Veterinary School, Langford, BS40 5DU