Postdoctoral Research Scientist - Prof D Lewis
Illuminating the impact of cancer immunometabolism and metabolic competition in driving immunotherapy response
Contract term: Fixed up to 6 years, subject to successful review at Year 3
About us
The CRUK Scotland 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
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have transformed cancer treatment, yet not all patients respond effectively. Successful ICI therapy relies on the pre-existing antitumour response of T cells, meaning that dysfunctional or metabolically impaired T cells can hinder immunotherapy susceptibility. The tumour microenvironment (TME) plays a crucial role in this resistance, influenced by factors such as hypoxia, acidic pH, suppressive metabolites (e.g. lactate), and metabolic competition (e.g. glucose deprivation affecting T cell activation and expansion). Understanding the metabolic landscape of tumours and the corresponding lymphoid structures is therefore critical to developing effective combination therapies that can overcome these resistance mechanisms.
Emerging research indicates that metabolic and immune imaging techniques, such as total-body positron emission tomography (PET), offer valuable insights into tissue-specific metabolic alterations, opening new avenues for early diagnosis and treatment.
Hence, we are seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Fellow to join our team at the CRUK Scotland Institute in Glasgow. Using cutting-edge total-body imaging, spatial biology and isotope-tracing methodology alongside state-of-the-art in vivo cancer modelling, this position will focus on immunometabolism in cancer, investigating how metabolic shifts in immune cells contribute to tumour progression and resistance to ICI therapy.
Further detail on the roles available here.
For informal enquiries, please email David.Lewis@glasgow.ac.uk
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 forum, 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 recently introduced 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 (FTE)
- Defined contribution pension scheme
- Free life assurance scheme
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Interest free season ticket loans
- Additional maternity pay for 6 months at full salary
- Shared parental leave including up to 6 weeks paid at full salary
- Cycle to work scheme saving tax and NI on cycle purchase and spreading repayments over up to 12 months
- Access to employee benefit schemes with discounts on supermarkets, cinema, travel and much more.
- On-site secure parking
Closing Date Monday 26th May 2025
