Postdoctoral Research Fellow

Postdoctoral Fellow in Targeting the Tumour Microenvironment in Paediatric Rhabdomyosarcomas

We are seeking to recruit a highly motivated and capable postdoctoral researcher to join the Innovation for Translation Research Group (ITRG) led by Dr Zoe Walters and Prof Timothy Underwood at the University of Southampton (UoS). The successful candidate will join a multidisciplinary team in the Faculty of Medicine, composed of both basic scientists and clinicians, providing a rich environment for exciting professional and personal development.

The successful applicant will be pivotal in delivering a CRIS Cancer Foundation funded award to map and model the tumour microenvironment of a paediatric soft tissue sarcoma called rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS), with a view to validating novel therapeutic strategies for these cancers. Working in close collaboration with Professor Janet Shipley at the Institute of Cancer Research (ICR) and Dr Jonathan West (UoS) this translational project will utilise patient-derived material from RMS patients to generate near-patient co-culture models to test tumour microenvironment targeting and immune augmenting strategies with a view to improving outcomes for these patients. The post will be funded until 31/10/2027 in the first instance.  

The post-holder will be expected to demonstrate independence commensurate with a post-doctoral scientist, including design and delivery of project components, manuscript preparation and involvement in grant bids for continuing funding. 

Candidates should have a PhD in a relevant area and a BSc/MSc in a related life science subject (e.g. cell biology/ immunology). A background in patient-derived cancer co-culture models would be beneficial. They should be able to work both without supervision and as part of a team and will be expected to supervise undergraduate and postgraduate students. The successful applicant will be encouraged to develop an application for potential further funding to support their career progression. 

The candidate will have robust skills in molecular biology techniques as well as experience in cancer cell culture, primary tissue explants, 3D cell culture/ organoid techniques. The candidate must have excellent organisational, communication and problem-solving skills. 

Applications for Research Fellow positions will be considered from candidates who are working towards or nearing completion of a relevant PhD qualification.  The title of Research Fellow will be applied upon successful completion of the PhD. Prior to the qualification being awarded the title of Senior Research Assistant will be given.

Informal enquiries may be made to: Dr Zoë Walters (z.s.walters@soton.ac.uk).

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