Postdoctoral Research Assistant - Peptide loading requirements and structural analysis of HLA-E

A Postdoctoral Research Scientist is required to join the Gillespie Group, at the Oxford Centre for Immuno-Oncology, Nuffield Department of Medicine. The aim of this project is to elucidate how peptides are loaded onto HLA-E and how this subsequently affects HLA-E structure and function.

You will be working collaboratively alongside an existing team to support new studies centred on HLA-E, and managing your own academic research and administrative activities involving small scale project management once initial training is completed. In this role, it is important to ensure research is performed safely, legally and to the highest possible standards. You will establish and maintain a good understanding of the research field by reading key reviews and research articles, and you will collaborate in the preparation of scientific reports and journal articles (by data provision or drafting sections of text) if required. Additionally, you will act as a source of information and advice to other members of the group on scientific protocols and experimental techniques, supervising and training new staff in laboratory techniques, if required.

It is essential that you hold a PhD/DPhil (or close to completion) in Biochemistry, Chemistry, Biophysics in molecular immunology. You will have prior experience working on major histocompatibility complex (MHC) proteins, and basic molecular biology techniques including PCR, cloning, mutagenesis and sequencing. It is essential you have experience in protein production using prokaryotic or eukaryotic expression platforms and purification using FPLC systems. Mass spectrometry experience (e.g. Hydrogen-Deuterium Exchange (HDX-MS) and/or MHC immunopeptideomics) is required for this role.

Applications for this vacancy are to be made online and you will be required to upload a supporting statement and CV as part of your online application. Your supporting statement must explain how you meet each of the selection criteria for the post using examples of your skills and experience.

This position is offered full time on a fixed term contract until 31 August 2028 and is funded by the Wellcome Trust.

Only applications received before 12 midday on 13 March 2024 will be considered. Please quote 170977 on all correspondence.