Scientist - Infectious Diseases - Oxford

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.

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.

Role Overview

The primary purpose of this role is to contribute to cross functional efforts focused on applying the ImmTAX® platform or other modalities to the development of novel treatments for chronic infections, including HIV and HBV and EBV‑associated diseases. The team is involved in multiple stages of the drug discovery and development process, from target discovery all the way to clinical trials.

Examples of key preclinical research are published in Yang H et al., Mol Ther. 2016; 24,11; Fergusson J et al., Hepatology 2020; 72,5; Wallace Z et al., Mol Ther 2024; 32, 678. The postholder will plan, design and execute experimental investigations to support the advancement of the Company pipeline, processes and technology capabilities, with guidance from their manager, ensuring that project goals are met within time and budget constraints. They will be expected to demonstrate technical proficiency, rigour in assessing their own data and that of others, scientific creativity and independent thought. This position requires participation and presentation of results at internal meetings, sharing information learned at external scientific meetings and establishing productive relationships with colleagues across Research and other departments.

Key Responsibilities

• With instruction and guidance from manager – plan, design, and execute assignments to meet project goals within defined timeframes.
• Execute experiments to address key scientific questions and enable project progression, utilizing a range of molecular and cellular techniques including but not limited to: NextGen sequencing, droplet digital PCR, qPCR, cell culture, flow cytometry, ELISpots, ELISAs. Some work will be conducted in a containment level 3 (CL3) facility and will require handling of human viruses.
• Analyse data, interpret results, and make recommendations.
• Proactively expand scientific/technical knowledge in relevant fields including HIV/HBV/EBV related disease biology and drug development through review of scientific literature, conference updates, peer-to-peer mentoring, and attendance at seminars/conferences in line with company strategy.
• Work effectively in a matrixed team structure and as part of cross functional teams.
• Participate and present results at internal meetings.
• Establish relationships and possible collaborations within and outside of the company.

Education, Experience and Knowledge

Essential Qualifications

• PhD in molecular biology, cell biology, genomics, virology, immunology, or related discipline and 0‑2 years related experience. Alternatively, a BSc or MSc with significant work experience in relevant scientific areas.
• Worked in a bench‑based laboratory environment and proficient in the following key techniques: Molecular techniques including: droplet digital PCR, NextGen sequencing, genomics/transcriptomics, PCR, mutagenesis, qPCR.
• Culturing primary cells and/or cell lines.

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge/expertise of Immunology, HIV, HBV, EBV.
• Flow cytometry, ELISAs, ELISpots.
• Viral integration site analysis.