Principal Research Scientist - In Silico Biologics Design
Principal Research Scientist - In Silico Biologics Design

Principal Research Scientist - In Silico Biologics Design

Oxford Full-Time 54000 - 84000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead the development of machine learning models for innovative drug design in a collaborative environment.
  • Company: Join Immunocore, a pioneering biotech firm transforming medicine for oncology and autoimmune diseases.
  • Benefits: Enjoy a diverse workplace with opportunities for continuous development and training.
  • Why this job: Be part of groundbreaking research that directly impacts patient lives and advances healthcare.
  • Qualifications: PhD in relevant fields with 8+ years in biologics design and strong ML expertise required.
  • Other info: Work on the world's first TCR-based medicine and contribute to a high-performing team.

The predicted salary is between 54000 - 84000 £ per year.

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. We strive to create a diverse and inclusive workplace, while seeking talented individuals to work with us across the many functions that will allow us to deliver new medicines to transform the lives of patients.

You will work with outstanding people who together pioneer the research, development and commercialization of bi-specific TCR therapies. We aim to create an environment where individual contributions and initiatives can be maximized, while fostering a culture of collaboration, based on respect and integrity. We want each individual employee to own their career, as part of high-performing teams, and in the context of on-the-job and formal continuous development and training, as well as constructive feedback. We always strive to identify ways to improve what we do and how we do it, by asking questions, voicing opinions, exploring various approaches and staying connected with healthcare professionals, patients, academia and other key partners.

The Principal Scientist In Silico Biologics Design will provide world class expertise in machine learning to drive the establishment of robust in silico methodologies that integrates computational predictions with empirical laboratory data to revolutionise the design of our class-leading T-cell receptor (TCR) drugs. Using our wealth of structural data, combined with further in-house and public domain data sets, the successful applicant will develop ML algorithms to impact the design of future drugs. This is an exciting technology-focussed role so innovation, execution and collaboration are key factors for success.

Working closely with the In Silico and automation teams within Protein Engineering, you will provide scientific and technical leadership relating to machine learning that will ultimately result in further progression of our growing pipeline of first-in-class drugs to benefit patients. With our successful launch in 2022, of the world's first TCR based medicine, KIMMTRAK, which is also the first launched treatment for any solid tumour, you will be joining us at the most exciting time in our history, and be part of a team that values innovation, trust and collaboration.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
  • To develop and assess advanced machine learning (ML) models for novel antibody and TCR drug candidate optimisation and, looking to impact de novo drug design in the future.
  • Utilise our extensive in-house structural and specificity data sets to extract further value.
  • Work with colleagues across Research to identify training data from the public domain and help shape the development of our in-house data sets to support the optimisation of ML algorithms.
  • Drive the establishment of virtual screening tools including:
  • Protein structure prediction
  • Affinity prediction
  • Peptide human leukocyte antigen (pHLA) specificity prediction
  • Developability prediction
  • Assist with TCR library design for multifactorial lead optimisation.
  • Work with interdisciplinary teams across structural biology, next-generation sequencing (NGS), and bioinformatics and data science to integrate machine learning into TCR discovery and optimisation.
  • Work with scientists to validate and integrate new methodologies into existing architecture.
  • Promote utilisation of ML algorithms among colleagues and mentor and train others in their deployment.
  • Present research outcomes at all levels, including Protein Engineering lab meetings, Research leadership team meetings, other governance meetings and at external conferences.
  • PERSON SPECIFICATIONExperience & knowledgeEssential
    • Demonstrated ability to build and evaluate machine learning models.
    • At least 8 years of experience in antibody, TCR or biologics design, evidenced by a strong publication record.
    • Proficiency with protein ML models such as AlphaFold, ESMFold, RFdiffusion, MPNN.
    • Advanced Python programming skills, focusing on data science and machine learning.
    • Managed sizeable research projects, understanding the wider implications of project outcomes and strategic objectives.
    • Demonstrates effective coaching skills and brings vision and strategy to life for others.
    • Exceptional communication skills.
    • Demonstrated ability to build and sustain networks and external collaboration with scientific leaders in the field.
    Desirable
    • Expertise in structural biology and modelling.
    • Experience in NGS analysis.
    • Experience with biologics data management software including Genedata and in handling and integrating large-scale biological datasets from different sources.
    • Familiarity with deploying and managing computational workflows on cloud platforms (e.g. AWS).
    Education & qualifications
    • PhD in Computational Biology, Computational Chemistry, Bioinformatics, or related discipline.

    Principal Research Scientist - In Silico Biologics Design employer: Immunocore

    Immunocore is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and inclusive work environment that fosters innovation and collaboration among top-tier professionals in the biotechnology field. Located at the forefront of T cell receptor technology, employees benefit from unparalleled opportunities for professional growth, access to cutting-edge resources, and the chance to contribute to groundbreaking therapies that transform patient lives. With a strong emphasis on continuous development and a culture that values individual contributions, Immunocore is dedicated to empowering its team members to excel in their careers while making a meaningful impact in healthcare.
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    Contact Detail:

    Immunocore Recruiting Team

    StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

    We think this is how you could land Principal Research Scientist - In Silico Biologics Design

    ✨Tip Number 1

    Network with professionals in the biotech and machine learning fields. Attend conferences, webinars, or local meetups to connect with individuals who work at Immunocore or similar companies. This can provide you with insider knowledge about the company culture and potentially lead to referrals.

    ✨Tip Number 2

    Showcase your expertise in machine learning and biologics design through online platforms like GitHub or ResearchGate. Share your projects, publications, or any relevant code that demonstrates your skills. This will help you stand out as a candidate who is not only knowledgeable but also actively contributing to the field.

    ✨Tip Number 3

    Prepare to discuss specific ML models and techniques you've used in past projects during interviews. Be ready to explain how these experiences relate to the responsibilities of the Principal Research Scientist role, particularly in drug design and optimisation.

    ✨Tip Number 4

    Familiarise yourself with Immunocore's recent developments, especially their TCR-based therapies like KIMMTRAK. Understanding their products and pipeline will allow you to tailor your discussions and demonstrate your genuine interest in contributing to their mission.

    We think you need these skills to ace Principal Research Scientist - In Silico Biologics Design

    Machine Learning Model Development
    Advanced Python Programming
    Data Science Expertise
    Protein Structure Prediction
    Affinity Prediction
    Peptide Human Leukocyte Antigen (pHLA) Specificity Prediction
    Developability Prediction
    TCR Library Design
    Interdisciplinary Collaboration
    Research Project Management
    Coaching and Mentoring Skills
    Exceptional Communication Skills
    Networking and Collaboration with Scientific Leaders
    Experience with NGS Analysis
    Biologics Data Management Software Proficiency
    Cloud Platform Workflow Management (e.g. AWS)
    Strong Publication Record in Biologics Design

    Some tips for your application 🫡

    Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in machine learning, antibody design, and biologics. Emphasise your publication record and any specific projects that align with the role's requirements.

    Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for innovative drug design and how your skills can contribute to Immunocore's mission. Mention specific experiences that demonstrate your ability to lead research projects and collaborate effectively.

    Showcase Technical Skills: Clearly outline your proficiency in Python and any machine learning models you have worked with, such as AlphaFold or ESMFold. Provide examples of how you've applied these skills in previous roles.

    Highlight Collaborative Experience: Discuss your experience working in interdisciplinary teams and how you've successfully integrated machine learning into research. Mention any mentoring or coaching roles you've taken on to showcase your leadership abilities.

    How to prepare for a job interview at Immunocore

    ✨Showcase Your Machine Learning Expertise

    Be prepared to discuss your experience with machine learning models in detail. Highlight specific projects where you've built or evaluated ML algorithms, especially those relevant to antibody or TCR drug design.

    ✨Demonstrate Collaboration Skills

    Since the role involves working with interdisciplinary teams, share examples of how you've successfully collaborated with others in research settings. Emphasise your ability to communicate complex ideas clearly and effectively.

    ✨Prepare for Technical Questions

    Expect technical questions related to protein ML models like AlphaFold and ESMFold. Brush up on your knowledge of these tools and be ready to explain how you've used them in your previous work.

    ✨Express Your Vision for Innovation

    The company values innovation, so articulate your vision for how you can contribute to their goals. Discuss any novel approaches you've taken in past projects and how they could apply to the development of TCR therapies.

    Principal Research Scientist - In Silico Biologics Design
    Immunocore
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    • Principal Research Scientist - In Silico Biologics Design

      Oxford
      Full-Time
      54000 - 84000 £ / year (est.)

      Application deadline: 2027-05-07

    • I

      Immunocore

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