Research Fellow – Lung Cancer Biology(UK Sponsorship)

Job Description

About the Department

• The Lung Cancer Prevention Laboratory, led by Dr Deborah Caswell, operates within the UCL Respiratory research group in the Division of Medicine at University College London. The department hosts a modern and fully equipped research environment dedicated to investigating respiratory diseases and lung cancer biology.
• Researchers benefit from access to advanced scientific facilities including:
• State-of-the-art tissue culture laboratories for cancer cell research
• A recently upgraded histology and pathology facility
• Advanced microscopy and imaging suites
• Collaborative research networks within the Division of Medicine

The laboratory works closely with Professor Sam Janes’ research group, enabling access to extensive clinical and biological datasets derived from large-scale lung cancer screening studies. These include:

• SUMMIT study – involving approximately 13,000 individuals at high risk of lung cancer
• ASCENT study – including samples from over 500 patients diagnosed with lung cancer
• In addition to human samples, the laboratory utilises unique experimental models, including:
• Humanised mouse models engineered to express APOBEC3 genes
• A large panel of transplantable EGFR-mutant lung cancer mouse cell lines
• Human lung cancer cell lines for translational research
• These specialised models provide rare experimental opportunities not widely available elsewhere.

Role Overview

The successful candidate will join a multidisciplinary research team investigating the molecular mechanisms driving early lung cancer development.

The project will focus on understanding how APOBEC3 enzymes influence the initiation and progression of lung tumours, particularly within EGFR-mutant lung cancers occurring in individuals who have never smoked.

• Using a newly developed humanised APOBEC3 mouse model, the research fellow will explore:
• When and where APOBEC3 enzymes are expressed during early tumour development
• How APOBEC3 activity contributes to DNA mutations and genomic instability
• The impact of APOBEC3 expression on tumour immune microenvironments
• The postholder will design and conduct experimental studies while contributing to the laboratory’s broader research goals.
• The position is funded for three years, with opportunities to apply for postdoctoral fellowships and the potential for contract extension.

Key Responsibilities

Research and Experimental Work

• Plan and conduct a comprehensive research programme on APOBEC3-driven lung cancer development.
• Perform laboratory experiments using preclinical mouse models and cancer cell lines.
• Analyse tumour genomic changes and immune responses during tumour progression.

Scientific Collaboration

• Work closely with laboratory members and external collaborators.
• Participate in multidisciplinary research discussions and team meetings.

Publication and Dissemination

• Prepare manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed scientific journals.
• Present research findings at conferences and academic meetings.

Academic Contribution

• Conduct systematic literature reviews related to lung cancer biology and genomic instability.
• Contribute to grant applications and collaborative research initiatives where appropriate.

Candidate Profile

Essential Requirements

• Applicants should demonstrate strong research expertise in cancer biology or a related biomedical discipline.
• PhD in molecular biology, cancer biology, biomedical sciences, or a related field.
• Proven ability to conduct independent scientific research.
• Experience working with animal models of lung cancer.
• Knowledge of experimental techniques related to tumour biology and genomic research.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Desirable Experience

• Familiarity with viral induction models of lung cancer in mice.
• Experience analysing tumour genomics or DNA mutation patterns.
• Background in tumour immunology or cancer microenvironment research.

Salary and Benefits

UCL offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support staff wellbeing and career development.

Key benefits include:

• 41 days of annual leave (including public holidays and university closure days)
• Option to purchase up to five additional days of leave
• Career Average Revalued Earnings (CARE) pension scheme
• Cycle-to-work programme and public transport season ticket loans
• Immigration loan support for international staff
• Relocation assistance for eligible positions
• On-site nursery facilities and gym access
• Enhanced maternity, paternity, and adoption leave
• Confidential Employee Assistance Programme
• Discounted medical insurance

Visa Sponsorship and Immigration Information

This position is eligible for visa sponsorship for international candidates.

For detailed information on working in the United Kingdom and visa options, applicants can consult official UK government resources:

• Skilled Worker Visa
• Global Talent Visa for Researchers
• Right to Work in the UK
• UK Visas and Immigration Guidance
• Cancer Research and Clinical Studies Regulation

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

University College London is committed to fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment for staff and students. The institution values diversity as a driver of creativity, innovation, and scientific excellence.

Applications are particularly encouraged from individuals currently underrepresented in the academic workforce, including candidates from minority ethnic communities, disabled individuals, and LGBTQI+ groups.

The department holds an Athena SWAN Silver Award, recognising its ongoing efforts to promote gender equality and support inclusive career development within scientific research.