Research Fellow (1066618CM)

How does inhibition of endoplasmic reticulum aminopeptidases impact on T cell biology

Applications are invited for an enthusiastic Research fellow to join Dr. Edd James’ research group to lead an exciting project in the Somers Cancer Research Building at the University Hospital Southampton. The project aims to investigate how inhibition of antigen presentation affect T cell responses.

About us
The University of Southampton (UoS) is a world leading Research University and Russell group member with 97% of its research work assessed as world leading and internationally excellent in the REF 2014 assessment. UoS is ranked in the top 1% of universities worldwide (QS world university rankings 2014-15) and in the top 15 of research led universities in the UK. We have an international reputation for research, teaching and enterprise activities, which impact on government policy making, health issues, and on business.

Project description

The ability to detect and respond to pathogens and cancer is a fundamental aspect of the immune system. A major aspect of this response involves the activation of cytotoxic T cells (CTL) through presentation of pathogen/tumour derived antigens at the cell surface in a process involving the antigen processing pathway. Within this pathway several proteins function in concert to generate peptide antigens which are presented at the cell surface complexed with MHC class I molecules.

The study aims to investigate the ability to inhibit antigen processing within cells to allow their recognition and destruction by CTL. This will involve characterising how modulation of aminopeptidase function within tumour cells alters peptide presentation, activation of CTL and tumour clearance in vivo. This project will utilise pre-clinical models of cancer as well as in vitro biochemical assays to investigate the effect of altered aminopeptidase activity on the presented peptide repertoire. The outcomes of this research will inform us of crucial mechanisms by which tumour peptide presentation may be modulated to induce protect anti-tumour T cell responses in humans. 

Entry Requirements:  Candidates must have a PhD (or equivalent professional qualification) in Immunology and experience of pre-clinical models of cancer. Knowledge of T cell immunology is desirable.

Applications for Research Fellow positions will be considered from candidates who are working towards or nearing completion of a relevant PhD qualification.  The title of Research Fellow will be applied upon successful completion of the PhD. Prior to the qualification being awarded the title of Senior Research Assistant will be given.

Enquiries:  Informal enquiries should be made to Dr Edd James (eddjames@soton.ac.uk).

Interviews: Interviews will take place shortly after the closing date. Please prepare a short 10 minute presentation for this purpose.

Application procedure:

You should submit your completed online application form at www.jobs.soton.ac.uk. The vacancy will close at midnight on the closing date as shown above.

References are requested along with your application. This reference system is automated so please ensure you provide the correct email address and allow time for these to be received, prior to the close date, to assist the department with shortlisting.

If you need any assistance, please call Ita Holmes (Recruitment Team) on +44 (0) 23 8059 9002. Please quote reference 1066618CM on all correspondence.

The Faculty of Medicine holds an Athena SWAN Silver Award demonstrating commitment to equal opportunities and gender balance in the workplace. The Faculty recognises that applicants may seek flexible working patterns which will be considered as part of the recruitment process. For further information including key benefits designed to help maintain and support employees' well-being and work-life balance, please see our working with us website pages.

Closing Date: 17 Oct 2018
Post Type: Education, Research & Enterprise