Senior Scientist I - Protein Science Pipeline

Job Details: Senior Scientist I - Protein Science Pipeline

Full details of the job.

Key Responsibilities

The main purpose for the incumbent in this role is to engineer ImmTAX molecules to support advancement of pipeline programs. This will involve understanding the impact on larger projects, demonstrating knowledge of drug development, and introducing new techniques to improve workflows.

The individual will work in ambiguous situations, interpret data, and make recommendations. They will contribute to "go/no go" decisions with technical proficiency and creativity, solving moderately difficult problems with sound judgment. An understanding of strategy and the potential impact of decisions is required. The individual will participate in meetings, influence scientific thinking, and demonstrate leadership through team participation and mentoring.

The role involves independently planning, designing, and executing projects, managing multiple projects with moderate guidance. The individual will build alignment around complex technical situations, receiving general instructions on new assignments and none on routine work.

• Design and independently conduct experimental investigations, with guidance from line manager or colleagues where appropriate
• Designing and producing DNA constructs for TCR, antibody and ImmTAX expression and DNA libraries for affinity maturation
• Identifying specific TCRs and antibodies from phage libraries through series of selection rounds
• Perform TCR and antibody affinity maturation using phage display to identify high affinity and specific molecules
• Analyse specificity of identified TCR/antibody-phage clones using ELISA and MAGPIX methods
• Execute TCR and antibody discovery, affinity maturation and screening processes to be suitable for unstable target proteins
• TCR, antibody and ImmTAX expression in mammalian and bacterial cells and purification via affinity tags or using ion exchange and size exclusion chromatography (ӒKTA system)
• Analysing TCR, antibody and ImmTAX binding affinity, kinetics and specificity using SPR (BIAcore)
• Assessment of novel methods for process optimisation, in collaboration with Protein Engineering
• Support junior scientists to help them overcome technical difficulties
• Independently analyse and report experimental results and present at company meetings
• Work collaboratively with scientists from other groups and functional areas
• Maintain accurate records of all work by following Company procedures

Education, Experience and Knowledge - Essential

• Expert in the areas of protein biochemistry and/or molecular biology with several years' experience in a number of the following areas:
  • Protein expression in bacterial and/or mammalian systems
  • Protein purification using column chromatography methods and ӒKTA system (such as via affinity tags, ion exchange and size exclusion)
  • Analysis of protein protein interactions using SPR (BIAcore)
  • Molecular cloning of DNA constructs (primer design, sequence analysis, PCR and gel electrophoresis)
  • Construction of DNA libraries and screening using display technologies
• Ability to work independently and actively contribute in a diverse, collaborative team environment
• Competent in the safe use of general laboratory equipment
• Recorded results in a concise and timely way, and in compliance with agreed standards
• High attention to detail, excellent time management and communication skills

Essential Qualifications

• BSc. Or MSc. in protein engineering, biochemistry, molecular biology or related discipline
• Typically requires a minimum of 5+ years of related experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• PhD in related discipline

About the Company

Immunocore (NASDAQ: IMCR) is a pioneering, commercial stage T cell receptor biotechnology company whose purpose is to develop and commercialize a new generation of transformative medicines which address unmet patient needs in oncology, infectious diseases and autoimmune disease. Our leaders in R&D are internationally recognised as some of the biotech industry's most successful drug developers. We are creating not just an environment where great minds can interact but an innovation powerhouse answering the big questions.

Focused on delivering first in class biological therapies to patients, we have developed a highly innovative soluble TCR platform. Our ImmTAX molecules underpin a new generation of precision engineered drugs that harness the immune system to treat a broad spectrum of diseases with high unmet medical need, including oncology, infectious diseases and autoimmune diseases.

At Immunocore, we recognize that our employees are our greatest asset. We value the unique contributions each person brings to our team. By embracing Science, Trust, Respect, Integrity, Diversity, and Entrepreneurship (STRIDE), we create an environment where collaboration thrives, ideas flourish, and transformative changes happen. STRIDE represents more than just letters; it embodies our shared identity and drives our mission. We are dedicated to developing breakthrough therapies that transform patients' lives, advancing medicine, and supporting one another in these pursuits.

Immunocore is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. As such, we are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression age, national origin, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by law.