Postdoctoral Research Scientist - Prof Jen Morton

Investigating Complex Crosstalk in the Pancreatic Cancer Microenvironment

Beatson Lab: Precision-Panc Preclinical Lab

Salary: from £32,868 to £42,717 (Depending on experience)

Contract term: Initial 3 year fixed term contract with possible 2 year extension.

About us

The CRUK Beatson Institute where the lab is based is a world leading cancer research institute, situated in the vibrant city of Glasgow in Scotland and hosting approximately 60 postdoctoral researcher scientists at any one time. It has an excellent reputation for fundamental cancer research, including world-class metabolism studies and renowned in vivo modelling of tumour growth and metastasis

Project outline

Pancreatic cancer is one of the deadliest cancers and there is an urgent need for novel therapies. A postdoctoral position is available in the Precision-Panc Preclinical Lab, headed by Prof Jen Morton. We are currently looking for a highly skilled and motivated postdoc to join our team using state of the art technologies to study how crosstalk between cells in the pancreatic cancer microenvironment can drive tumour progression and resistance to therapy.
The aims of the project are to determine the features of TAMs and CAFs in pancreatic tumours that combine to support fibrosis and tumour progression, and to assess the effects of radiotherapy on the pancreatic tumour microenvironment and investigate the signalling pathways that drive microenvironmental changes to identify novel targets. The postdoc will use clinically relevant mouse models in combination with cutting edge technologies including spatial transcriptomic analysis, multiplex IF, and tissue clearing and multiplex imaging. Targets will be validated in mouse and human tissue, and co-culture assays used to triage and functionally interrogate targets prior to testing novel treatments in vivo.
The successful applicant will have a PhD in a relevant field and be ambitious and passionate about research. Previous experience with in vivo cancer models is desirable, and expertise in immunohistochemistry, cell culture and flow cytometry would also be beneficial.

Postdoc support

Postdocs are key members of our research community, and we offer them a range of opportunities to train and develop as researchers while they are with us:

• Exciting, innovative cancer research projects in state-of-the art labs
• A highly collaborative and interactive research environment
• Access to and training in key advanced technologies, for example imaging and in vivo modelling
• A mentor enabling scheme to aid personal and professional development
• A rich programme of scientific exchange through seminars, workshops and meetings
• Support to make fellowship and small grant applications, including during their transition to their next position
• Guidance and mentoring to compete for an independent scientist position as well as a multitude of other career options, including in industry.
• A highly engaged postdoc society, providing peer support, training, careers advice and regular social events

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

Our overarching research ethos at the Institute is about excellence, honesty, openness, accountability and integrity. The diversity of our staff and students is also what makes the Institute such a vibrant place to work and advance discoveries in cancer research. Family friendly policies, our collaborative ethos, a focus on good mental health and well-being and opportunities for all help to create an enjoyable and inclusive workplace where your voice matters.

The Institute is also committed to increasing the number of female scientists at the postdoc level and beyond and encourages female applicants to apply. We have a highly attractive maternity policy which provides 12-18 months support and funding for postdocs wishing to take time off to spend with their children amongst other family friendly policies.

Employee Benefits

• Competitive salary
• 40.5 days annual leave including bank holidays (pro-rata)
• Defined Contribution pension scheme
• Life Insurance scheme
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Season ticket loan
• Additional maternity pay at 6 month's full pay (subject to service)
• Shared parental leave
• Cycle to work scheme that could save you 26-40% on a bike and accessories.
• Access to Employee benefit schemes with discounts on supermarkets, cinema, travel and much more.
• On-site secure parking

For informal enquiries please email jennifer.morton@glasgow.ac.uk.

Closing Date for Applications: 30 April 2023.