Researcher/postdoc position in CAR T cells and antibody drug conjugates

A position as Researcher/postdoc is available for 2 years, with possibility for extension, from February 1st 2025, in the research group of Prof. Jon Amund Kyte at Dept. of Cancer Immunology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital (OUH). The researcher will work in team with other members of the Kyte group, which has 15 members with research expertise in immunology, molecular biology and medicine. Dr. Kyte is also Head of Department for Clinical Cancer Research (www.phase1.no) and has initiated and lead several immunotherapy trials. We are currently moving one of the CAR T cell products developed in our research group into clinical testing.

OUH is Norway’s largest hospital and medical research institution, and is accredited as a Comprehensive Cancer Center by the Organization of European Cancer Institutes. OUH has a particularly strong research profile in cell therapy (www.ous-research.no/strat-cell), a newly established core facility for advanced cell therapy and a proven record in bringing novel immunotherapy ideas from preclinical development into clinical trials.
Research Description: The Kyte Group has developed several tumor-targeting chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) and other constructs for T cell therapy, as well as tumor targeting antibodies.  The successful applicant will work on a new project called “CAR360”, for development of personalized T cell therapy countering tumor escape in treatment refractory solid cancers. This includes approaches countering immune suppression and the targeting of multiple antigens and tumor subpopulations. The project will make use of proprietary constructs developed in the group. The successful applicant will also work on the development of therapy with bispecific antibodies, nanobodies and antibody-drug conjugates (ADC) targeting tumor-specific antigens. The required methods have been established.  

Oslo University Hospital is a workplace with great diversity. We believe this is crucial for solving our tasks in the best possible way. We want this diversity to be reflected among the applicants for our positions, and we encourage all qualified candidates, regardless of background, to apply!

Tasks:

The researcher/postdoc will be responsible for design and molecular cloning of novel CAR constructs, and for testing the functionality of CAR T, bispecific antibodies, nanobodies and ADC in vitro and in vivo. A variety of advanced cellular/molecular immunology technologies will be employed for in vitro evaluation. Multifunctional CAR 360 cells, ADC and bispecific antibodies will be tested in animal models, including a human xenograft cancer stem cell model. The researcher will be encouraged to take initiatives and to explore upcoming technologies of particular interest.

Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in immunology/molecular biology/cell therapy and a proven record of research, evidenced by successful publishing in scientific journals.
  
• Strong research background in molecular biology, cellular immunology and animal models, including methods relevant for antibody and CAR T cell research. 
  

Skills:

• Robust practical skills in immunology and molecular biology, including design and molecular cloning of novel constructs, retroviral work and gene editing, cell culture, flow cytometry, immunohistochemistry and T-cell functional assays.
  
• Knowledge in development of bi-specific antibodies/T-cell engagers, antibody-drug conjugates, nanobodies or CAR /TCR cell therapy
  
• Knowledge in bioinformatics and analysis of single cell sequencing data is desirable
  
• Excellent written and oral communication skills (English)
  
• Ability to take initiatives and to work independently, as well as in collaborative research efforts.

We offer:

• Interesting and high-impact research project, with huge potential for clinical application
  
• An opportunity to acquire cutting edge knowledge within the hot-topics of  CAR T, ADC and bi-specific antibodies
  
• Full-time two year position, with possibility for extension
  
• Salary according to the OUS salary scale
  
• Favorable pension arrangements
  
• Attractive welfare arrangements

Kontaktinformasjon

Jon Amund Kyte, Head of Unit, +4797569619

Arbeidssted

Ullernchausseen 70
0379 Oslo

Nøkkelinformasjon:

Arbeidsgiver: Oslo universitetssykehus HF

Referansenr.: 4896455883
Stillingsprosent: 100%
Contract
Startdato: 01.02.2025
Sluttdato: 31.01.2027
Søknadsfrist: 05.01.2025