Essex Research Group

Computational Simulation of Biomolecular Systems

Research Fellow in Structural Cancer Immunology

  • Full Time Fixed Term for two years
  • Location: Southampton General Hospital
  • Salary: £30,942 to £36,914 per annum
  • Closing Date: Tuesday 20 April 2021
  • Interview Date: To be confirmed
  • Reference: 1354221CM

The Antibody and Vaccine Group based in the newly opened Centre for Cancer Immunology in Southampton alongside colleagues at the Institute for Life Sciences in Macromolecular Crystallography and Computer simulation of Biomolecular Systems Group, are seeking to employ a Postdoctoral Research Fellow to help develop next generation antibody therapeutics.

The participating groups have a strong track-record in basic and translational immunology, using molecular biology, protein chemistry, structural biology and molecular simulation methods to understand the basis of agonistic immunostimulatory antibodies. Their principal aim is to develop new and more effective antibody reagents for treating cancer.

An exciting opportunity now presents itself for a research fellow to join the team and work on a new CRUK funded programme. The postdoctoral fellow will leverage a range of structural techniques, such as x-ray crystallography, electron microscopy, small angle x ray scattering and molecular dynamics simulation to understand and inform the development of next generation immunostimulatory anti-cancer antibodies, interfacing strongly between disciplines and work carried out in Cancer Immunology.

We seek a highly motivated individual, educated to PhD level or (equivalent qualifications and experience*) in structural biology or computational chemistry. The candidate should have practical laboratory experience and be able to carry out data collection and data interpretation in one or more of the above detailed approaches and be knowledgeable in the field of immunology.

The position is full-time and for 24 months in the first instance with the possibility for extension based upon progress, for a maximum of 5 years in total.

*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.

Informal queries should be directed to Associate Professor Ivo Tews (Ivo.Tews@soton.ac.uk), Professor Jon Essex (J.W.Essex@soton.ac.uk) or Professor Mark Cragg (msc@soton.ac.uk)

Application Procedure
You should submit your completed online application form at www.jobs.soton.ac.uk. The application deadline will be midnight on the closing date stated above. If you need any assistance, please call Hannah Farrance (Recruitment Team) on +44 (0) 23 8059 2750. Please quote reference 1354221CM on all correspondence.

Details about the School of Cancer Sciences and Centre for Cancer Immunology, Macromolecular Crystallography and Computer simulation of Biomolecular Systems Group can be found at:


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.


Further details:
Job Description and Person Specification