Research Fellow in Molecular Allergology

Biochemical Sciences

Location: Guildford
Salary: £34,308 to £37,474 per annum
Fixed Term
Post Type: Full Time
Closing Date: 23.59 hours GMT on Thursday 02 February 2023
Reference: 092922

Applications are invited for a postdoctoral research fellow which is available immediately in the Food and Molecular Immunology research group led by Professor Clare Mills in the Immunology Section of the School of Biosciences and Medicine, University of Surrey. It forms part of her ongoing collaboration with EuroFIR, ASBL (Brussels, Belgium) and the University of Manchester. The work is part of a project led by EuroFIR  funded by the European Food Safety Authority “Novel strategies for predicting allergenicity: development of a ranking method and screening tools to assess the allergy risk of innovative proteins” (OC/EFSA/GMO/2021/04) where the University of Surrey is acting as a subcontractor. 

The overall aim of the project is to develop novel strategies for predicting allergenicity of innovative/novel proteins. This is being realised through 

1. Developing a ranking method for proteins with different allergenic potential according to their clinical relevance and screen existing tools to assess allergenicity risk of innovative/ novel proteins for use in subsequent activities using a systematic reviewing approach.
2. Investigating potential in silico tools and follow up actions (in vitro and/or in vivo methods) needed for an improved allergenicity assessment. 
3. Developing a novel approach for allergenicity assessment of innovative/novel proteins by integrating in silico, in vitro and in vivo methods through implementation of the final ranking strategy of known allergens.

The project is data-focused and specific activities in Surrey include 

• Assessing the effectiveness of selected in silico tools, used alone and in combination, for identifying potential allergenic risks and identifying shortcomings with the tools.  
• Identify follow-up actions using, for example, in vitro and in vivo methods for allergenicity prediction, when an protein is flagged as being of potential allergenic importance by in silico analysis.

 We are therefore looking for a highly motivated individual with a PhD in a biochemistry or immunology and proven ability in the application of application of immunological methods including immunochemical and cell-based analysis. A knowledge of allergic and associated respiratory diseases, such as asthma, would be beneficial.

We are part of the growing and vibrant Section of Immunology located at the beautiful campus of the University of Surrey, close to London. The Section is within the Department of Biochemical Sciences and links to the unique capability in single cell imaging with mass spectrometry which builds on the National ion beam facility.

When completing the online application form, please ensure you include a cover letter with a supporting statement.

For an informal discussion about the post, please contact Prof. Clare Mills  (clare.mills@surrey.ac.uk).

Further details: Job Description

For more information and to apply online, please download the further details and click on the 'apply online' button above.

In return we offer a generous pension, relocation assistance where appropriate , flexible working options including job share and blended home/campus working locations (dependent on work duties), access to world-class leisure facilities on campus, a range of travel schemes and supportive family friendly benefits including an excellent on-site nursery.

Click here to find out more about the benefits we offer to support you.

The University of Surrey is committed to providing an inclusive environment that offers equal opportunities for all. We place great value on diversity and are seeking to increase the diversity within our community. Therefore we particularly encourage applications from under-represented groups, such as people from Black, Asian and minority ethnic groups and people with disabilities.