Postdoctoral Fellow

We are recruiting a Postdoctoral Fellow specialising in immunology to study the role of immune cells in tissue regeneration. As a model of regeneration, we will use the endometrium, the mucosal layer of the uterus that undergoes cyclical shedding and regeneration in response to fluctuating hormone levels. This position is fixed-term until 31 August 2028.

About the research: Immune cells play an active role in regenerative processes, for example by providing growth factors and other signals that support tissue growth. One of the most striking examples of efficient regeneration is the endometrium, which is shed and regenerated every month without scarring. This process is most evident during menstruation, the phase of the menstrual cycle in which the endometrium is shed and rapidly rebuilt. Despite its importance, the causal contribution of immune cells to regeneration, both in general and within the endometrium, remains poorly understood. This gap in knowledge limits our understanding of common gynaecological conditions such as Heavy Menstrual Bleeding (HMB), a debilitating disorder characterised by excessive blood loss.

In this project, we will adopt an integrative, cutting-edge genomics approach to investigate the role of immune cells in endometrial regeneration in both health and disease. We will examine how immune cell function is altered in HMB using advanced genomic profiling applied to both endometrial tissue and menstrual fluid. Deep learning models will be used to predict cellular, molecular, and genetic associations with HMB, enabling the identification of causal pathways, patient stratification, and the development of novel diagnostic tools and therapeutic strategies. A key component of the project is the use of in vitro systems, including organoid–immune cell co-cultures established in the lab, to validate findings and mechanistically dissect the contribution of immune cells to endometrial regeneration.

What you’ll be doing: In this role, you will lead investigations into the role of immune cells in regeneration, with a primary focus on the endometrium. The position is part of a large, collaborative project funded by Wellcome LEAP, which aims to profile menstrual fluid, the microbiome, and endometrial tissue using a range of transcriptomic technologies to identify novel biomarkers and treatments for HMB. You will work with single-cell RNA sequencing and spatial transcriptomics to enable discovery-driven research, alongside organoid-based models for functional validation. The overarching goal is to define the molecular mechanisms by which immune cells regulate endometrial regeneration in both health and disease.

You will take scientific leadership in profiling menstrual fluid and endometrial samples from individuals experiencing HMB, as well as in establishing patient-derived in vitro models. Your work will integrate computational analyses of single-cell and spatial genomics data with mechanistic experimentation in vitro. Your responsibilities will include:

• Interpreting and biologically contextualising complex genomic datasets, with a focus on immune cell populations
• Designing and performing functional and mechanistic assays
• Presenting findings to academic and clinical collaborators
• Contributing to the strategic and scientific direction of the project

Essential Skills:

• PhD in immunology, cell biology, molecular biology, genetics, or a similar discipline or on track to complete within 6 months of starting the role
• Proven expertise in immunology
• Proven expertise in flow cytometry
• Strong experience in cell culture
• Proven ability to interpret transcriptomic data in a biologically relevant context
• Proven ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships with a wide range of persons of differing levels, abilities and knowledge
• Foster an inclusive culture where all can thrive and diversity is celebrated
• Team player with the ability to work with others in a collegiate and collaborative environment
• Ability to effectively communicate ideas and results and present orally to groups
• Commitment to personal development and updating of knowledge and skills
• Ability to prioritise, multi-task and work independently
• Detail-oriented, strong organisational and problem-solving skills

Other Information:

Salary per annum (dependent upon skills and experience): £38,000-£49,156

Application Process: Please apply with your CV and a cover letter outlining how you meet the criteria set out above.

Closing Date: 11th February 2026

Hybrid Working at Wellcome Sanger: We recognise that there are many benefits to Hybrid Working; including an improved work-life balance, with more focused time, as well as the ability to organise working time so that collaborative opportunities and team discussions are facilitated on campus. The hybrid working arrangement will vary for different roles and teams. The nature of your role and the type of work you do will determine if a hybrid working arrangement is possible.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion: We aim to attract, recruit, retain and develop talent from the widest possible talent pool, thereby gaining insight and access to different markets to generate a greater impact on the world. We have staff networks, LGBTQ+, Parents and Carers, Disability and Race Equity to bring people together to share experiences, offer specific support and development opportunities and raise awareness. The networks are also a place for allies to provide support to others. We want our people to be whoever they want to be because we believe people who bring their best selves to work, do their best work. That’s why we’re committed to creating a truly inclusive culture at Sanger Institute. We will consider all individuals without discrimination and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees, where everyone can thrive.

Our Benefits: We are proud to deliver an awarding campus-wide employee experience.