Post-Doctoral Research Associate at Imperial College London

Location: Hammersmith Hospital Campus (East Acton)

Job summary

How do cancers evade immune destruction and what is the basis for immunotherapy sensitivity? We are studying these questions using a unique human cancer model (gestational trophoblastic neoplasia – GTN), along with tissues from common human cancers and mice models.

We seek a creative immunologist for a CRUK funded postdoctoral position until 31-March-2028. The project is based with Dr. Ehsan Ghorani at Imperial College London. Collaborators include Prof. Lucy Walker at the UCL Institute of Immunity and Transplantation, Prof. Sergio Quezada at the UCL Cancer Institute and Prof. Rafi Ahmed at the Emory Vaccine Center.

GTN is a rare cancer arising from placental trophoblasts and is:

• An allograft that spreads widely yet avoids immune rejection
• The most sensitive of all cancers to anti-PD1 immunotherapy yet negative for MHC class I

Studying these paradoxes will shed light on mechanisms of immune regulation in other cancers.

We have unique access to GTN samples through the world’s largest clinic at Imperial and will validate key concepts using samples from common cancers (lung and renal) we are collecting from two large UK immunotherapy clinical trials (REFINE-Lung and REFINE)

Duties and responsibilities

You will lead work characterising the immune response to GTN with a focus on CD4 T cells using a systems immunology approach including use of single cell methods, TCR sequencing, multiplex immunofluorescence, explant culture and functional experiments. You will have bioinformatics support, access to state of the art facilities in a vibrant and supportive environment and ample opportunities for career development.

Essential Requirements

Suitable candidates should hold or about to hold a PhD in immunology of cancer, transplantation, autoimmunity, reproduction or a related area, a strong track record and a passion for researching and understanding the immune system in cancer.

Further Information

This is a full time and fixed term post until March 2028. You will be based at the Hammersmith Campus (East Acton).

Please contact Dr Ehsan Ghorani for further information: e.ghorani@imperial.ac.uk 

*Candidates who have not yet been officially awarded their PhD will be appointed as a Research Assistant within the salary range £38,194 to £41,388 per annum*

Imperial College is committed to equality of opportunity, to eliminating discrimination and to creating an inclusive working environment. We are an Athena SWAN Silver award winner, a Stonewall Diversity Champion, a Disability Confident Employer and work in partnership with GIRES to promote respect for trans people.

Closing date: 22 September 2023

To apply, visit www.imperial.ac.uk/jobs and search by the job reference MED03863.