Research Scientist – Autoimmune Research

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, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Main Purpose of Job

To conduct and design experimental investigations enabling the advancement of the Company pipeline, process, or technology capabilities, proposing improvements for consideration by colleagues and managers.

Main Responsibilities

· Independently conduct and interpret cellular assays and studies to probe the effect of ImmTAAIs on immune cells in the context of autoimmunity

· Develop new vitro models and pre-clinical activities to explore efficacy of new ImmTAAI effector molecules

· Conduct cellular screening assays to support the identification and optimization of ImmTAAI candidates

· Contribute to the autoimmune biology platform through the isolation, characterization, activation, and expansion of immune cell populations, including T cells, B cells, and monocytes.

· Maintain and culture cancer cell lines, primary cells, and other relevant cellular models to support research activities

· Analyse, interpret and communicate experimental data effectively to colleagues and project teams through presentations, reports, and scientific discussions

· Gain understanding of relevant literature and develop knowledge of the pathophysiology of Autoimmune diseases

· Contribute to routine lab maintenance and organisation

· Maintain accurate, complete, and timely experimental records in accordance with company policies and scientific best practices


Education, Experience and Knowledge

Essential Qualifications:

· PhD in Immunology or Cellular Immunology with up to two years post graduate experience

Desirable knowledge:

· Background in inflammation, immune regulation, and autoimmune disease biology

Essential Skills and Experience

· Ability to run and design cell-based assays / functional assays to address key scientific questions

· Skilled in isolation, phenotypic characterisation and expansion of various immune cells from PBMC (CD8+, CD4+ T cells, Tregs, B cells and monocytes)

· Experience with a broad range of immunological techniques, including NFAT luciferase reporter assay, ELISA, ELISpot, MSD cytokine analysis, intracellular cytokine detection and T cell killing assays

· Expertise in multicolour flow cytometry panel design, instrument operation, and data analysis using platforms such as BD LSR Fortessa, iQue Intellicyt and Sony Sorter

· Experience in mammalian cell culture, including both cancer cell lines and primary cell cultures

· High attention to detail, good time management skills and communication skills

· Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively both independently and within multidisciplinary teams.

· Excellent organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities

· Excellent oral and written communication skills

Desirable Skills

· Experience with confocal microscopy and image analysis techniques

· Proficiency in leveraging AI-driven research tools and LLMs to enhance research workflows, including automated literature review, trend analysis, and the streamlining of scientific documentation

· Experience with bulk RNA sequencing and/or single-cell RNA sequencing technologies and associated data interpretation

· Track record of scientific achievement demonstrated through peer-reviewed publications and conference attendance