Associate Process Development Scientist, Downstream - Oxford

Associate Process Development Scientist, Downstream - 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. STRIDE represents more than just letters; it embodies our shared identity and drives our mission. 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.

To conduct experimental investigations to drive the downstream process development of emerging drug candidates, supportive reagents and successful establishment of production processes for manufacturing and clinical development. Protein purification is core to this role, requiring an understanding of protein characteristics to utilise column chromatography and separation techniques along with analytical assessments of purity, using methods such as SDS-PAGE and HPLC. The job requires a strong team player capable of following instructions with a drive for learning and developing knowledge and experience in downstream process development. Robust record-keeping and regular reporting of results are essential.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - ALL SCIENTISTS
* Conducting experiments, observing, interpreting, and responding to results.
* Following experimental protocols and writing reports
* Maintaining and increasing technical knowledge in relevant fields through self-study, observation and attending relevant conferences or training courses.
* Maintaining accurate records of all work by completing laboratory notebook on time, following company procedures.
* Ensuring laboratory equipment is operated in accordance with safety and risk guidelines, acting promptly to report any faults or problems.
* Operating in accordance with the Company\\\'s Health and Safety policies, especially within a laboratory environment.

SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES
* Experiments: running pre-established experimental investigations, with guidance from line managers, a mentor or colleagues. Reviewing data with line manager or colleagues before next steps.
* Priorities: working to agreed experimental priorities and deadlines; raising issues or concerns with managers or colleagues so that these can be addressed
* Technical knowledge: actively developing own knowledge, drawing on the experience of others and self-learning
* Laboratory records: ensuring that all records and information are up to date, on time and recorded to the correct standard, checking with a mentor or colleagues if unsure
* Laboratory equipment: attending training on the use of technical instruments, using equipment appropriately, correctly and tidily; owning and maintaining assigned items of equipment
* Reporting: communicating and presenting research findings at meetings with colleagues and line manager. Regular reporting on progress of work verbally and in writing. Protocols and reports to be written and reviewed to meet the Immunocore Quality system.
* Health & Safety: compliance with all H&S requirements, attending appropriate training programmes

EXPERIENCE AND KNOWLEDGE

Essential
* Operated in a bench-based microbial or mammalian expression, biochemistry, molecular biology, analytical or bio-pharmaceutical laboratory environment with experience or familiarity in these areas:
- Protein purification
- Routine microbial culture operations
- Aseptic techniques
- Basic protein biochemistry and/or molecular biology
- Competent in the safe use of general laboratory equipment
* Recorded results and information in a concise, accurate and timely way, and in compliance with agreed standards
* Learnt about new practices through observation, self-learning and an enquiring mind
* Worked and contributed actively in a diverse team environment

Desirable
* AKTA purifications and method design
* Molecular biology skills
* Biophysical characterisation of proteins
* Mammalian expression
* An awareness of cGMP and biopharmaceutical manufacturing requirements
* DoE experience
* Able to interpret results with minimum guidance
* Proficient in general laboratory analysis software
* Implemented or influenced best lab practice
* Worked in an industrial/biotechnology laboratory environment

EDUCATION & QUALIFICATIONS
* Essential: GCSE in mathematics, English and science
* Desirable: BSc. or MSc. In protein engineering, microbiology, biochemistry, molecular biology or related discipline