Research Associate - Target Discovery Abingdon, England
Job description
About Oxford Biotherapeutics:
Oxford Biotherapeutics is a clinical-stage biotechnology company for the development of antibody therapeutics for the treatment of cancer. You will play an integral role in the pre-clinical development of novel immuno-oncology therapeutics. Our OGAP® platform is the world's largest, cancer specific, membrane protein library, directly measuring plasma membrane protein expression in patient tumors. OGAP is used to identify novel, highly tumor specific antigens for novel first-in-class ADC, Bispecific T-cell Engager (BITE®) and Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) targets. Our lead asset, OBT076, is an Antibody Drug Conjugate (ADC) in Phase 1b clinical development. Our clinical and pre-clinical pipeline of novel biologics is balanced between internal programs, focused on ADCs and checkpoint regulators, and externally partnered programs with key innovators in oncology such as Boehringer Ingelheim, Immunogen and Genmab.
Purpose of the Role
To perform research in collaboration with others, primarily focusing on identification of therapeutic cancer targets using proteomics, literature and computational based approaches. Assist in the preparation of research reports for collaboration partners, presenting OBT research on OBT’s behalf at partner meetings and conferences where required. Support the procurement and processing of cell lines and tissues in our proteomics pipeline, adherence to regulatory requirements and assist with general lab duties. Training will be provided where required.
Roles and Responsibilities:
Target Discovery
- To contribute to target discovery through laboratory processes and utilising bioinformatic tools for target identification with the ultimate goal of delivering novel therapeutics in oncology
- To communicate effectively, interpret and summarise data and present to different audiences
- To review and appraise oncology and immunology literature and unpublished research
- To prioritise work according to project goals and take responsibility for the timely delivery of individual and team objectives
- Mine databases to find new targets or information on existing targets for research and business development purposes as required
- Identification and sourcing of new tissues and cell lines to include into our OGAP® platform
- Processing tissues and cell lines in our laboratory to contribute to the proteomics pipeline
- Registering and logging new samples into our database ensuring the complete documentation of all relevant information
- Assisting the team in adherence and compliance to the Human Tissue Authority regulations
Business Development
- Assist in the production of target packages for external collaborators
- Produce additional supporting data on existing and competitor targets
- Assist with the preparation and delivery of scientific and corporate presentations
- Conference attendance as an OBT representative
Please note the roles and responsibilities for the position include but are not limited to the above.
Knowledge, Experience, and Skills:
-
Must have a minimum a BSc in a biology based field, MSc with relevant lab experience preferred
- Experience in cell/tissue culture and working with human tissues desirable
- Confident working in a laboratory environment
- Prefer candidates who are vaccinated against Hepatitis B, if not candidate must be willing to be vaccinated in future
- Skilled in using Microsoft Office packages
- Excellent ability to relay complex scientific information to different audiences
- Ability to work with minimal supervision and maintain a high standard of confidentiality
- Confident engaging with colleagues and external partners
Behaviours
- Team player
- A positive attitude
- Enthusiasm
- Self-motivated
- A flexibility and agile approach
- Attention to detail
- Ability to prioritise workload
One of our top priorities is to maintain the health and wellbeing of our employees and their families. To achieve this goal, we offer comprehensive benefits.
Benefits Offered:
- Private health care (Bupa)
- Health Cash Plan
- Generous pension scheme with potential employer contribution of up to 10% (based on match contributions)
- Discretionary Annual bonus scheme
- Free onsite parking
- Office snacks
- Enhanced holiday entitlement above statutory minimum plus public holidays
- Employee Referral Bonus Program
- Annual training budget for professional development
- New hire stock options
- Team building events and activities
Equal Opportunities Statement
We are committed to equality of opportunity for all employee and applications from individuals are encouraged regardless of age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief and marriage and civil partnerships.
