Group Leader - Cell Biology

Summary The successful candidate will be accountable for the successful and appropriate in vitro and in vivo characterisation of binding specificity of candidate and T cell activation and T cell-mediated killing of bi-specific TCR molecules to cells. In this role you will be accountable for the successful and appropriate in vitro characterisation of binding specificity of candidate and T cell activation and T cell mediated killing of bi-specific TCR molecules to cells. This role requires strong team leadership, scientific understanding, and expertise in immunology, T cell assays, cellular biology, and molecular biology. Experience with lentiviral transduction and cloning is desirable. You will have responsibility for leading the day-to-day running of the preclinical biology group. Key Responsibilities Lead the day-to-day operations of the preclinical biology group. Develop and implement biological assays to ensure candidate soluble TCRs translate to potent and safe clinical molecules. Oversee all biological testing activities related to soluble TCR molecules generated by the Protein Engineering team. Manage a team of cell biologists, initially comprising 3-4 individuals, with potential for team expansion as candidate targets are nominated. Determine and implement appropriate in vitro testing strategies for efficacy, safety, and underlying molecular mechanisms of soluble TCRs, including establishing assays and sourcing cell lines and tissue samples. In the future there may be the opportunity to implement appropriate in vivo testing strategies, utilising outsourced resources if required. Collaborate effectively with the leadership team, including the Head of Protein Engineering and Head of Protein Production, to guide optimization and development of clinical soluble TCRs. Experience/Qualifications PhD in a relevant biological subject with at least 5 years of subsequent biotechnology and/or pharmaceutical industry experience in R&D teams. Direct hands-on laboratory experience in testing the safety and efficacy of soluble high-affinity TCR molecules. Deep familiarity with traditional cell biology and molecular biology techniques, including cell binding assays, T cell activation, and T cell killing both in vitro and in vivo. Experience in generating isogenic cell lines using lentiviral transduction, growing a large array of cell lines, human organoids, and primary human cells. Expertise in complex multi-color flow cytometry, EliSpot assays, luminometry, fluorescence, and in vivo assays of safety and efficacy. Proven leadership skills, including successful development and implementation of scientific strategies, and ability to work with other leaders and support staff. Experience in managing, mentoring, developing, and motivating teams of scientists. Experience in managing budgets, agreeing and delivering timelines of work, and writing reports. Ability to present work to the Senior Leadership Team. Ability to publish and present work done by your team and in partnership with other Yellowstone teams. Familiarity with requirements for development and submission of preclinical data packages for a Clinical Trial Authorisation to MHRA and a New Drug Application to the FDA and EMA.

Location: Oxford, GB

Posted Date: 5/14/2025