KTP Research Associate in Skin Immunology and 3D Tissue Models

The key objective of this KTP is to further develop Labskin’s existing human skin model by introducing an important immune cell called the macrophage, a crucial cell type that can drive skin repair and avoidance of scarring, but which can also drive disease if inappropriately controlled. Thus, the main area of focus is to develop this novel immune-competent model to allow for the first time an in vitro analysis of human skin and the factors that may control health and disease.

Skills/experience required

Essential

• Proficiency in cell culture, ideally using long-term cultures
• Skills in immune assays (e.g. ELISA, antibody staining of cells)
• Excellent aseptic technique
• Independence and strong problem-solving skills
• Strong IT and data analysis abilities
• Ability to quickly adopt new laboratory techniques (supported with training from the academic team)

Desirable

• Experience in industry, intersectoral projects, or working within developing businesses
• Experience of 3D cell culture models
• Microscopy techniques and an understanding of histology and pathology
• Self-motivated individual who can work with minimal supervision
• Effective time management
• Ability to meet deadlines
• A proactive attitude.

Main responsibilities

• To define an immune cell culture that integrates with other skin cells to faithfully model human skin in health and disease
• To explore skin immunity, as the model will benefit translational skin research
• To effectively integrate the technically challenging existing cell biology of the current models with the characterised immune cell possibilities that can be incorporated
• To manage your time and budget for the project and ensure high-quality record keeping enabling timely IP protection.

Personal attributes

• Strong interpersonal skills to successfully work with various stakeholders.
• Strong communication and presentation skills. The ability to work within a cross-disciplinary project team.
• Leadership qualities, professionalism, strong self-organisation, and time management skills to deliver agreed milestones and objectives.
• Highly motivated and adaptable.
• Career focused.
• Ability to work independently, as well as part of the team and use initiative.
• Strong desire to pursue innovative approaches, adopt new technologies and new data processing methods.

Additional Benefits and support

• Up to £4,333 for personal and professional development for the duration of the project
• Annual leave (25 days p/a).
• Professional support and mentorship.
• Mental Health and wellbeing support

This KTP project will bring together the collective expertise of Labskin Ltd and Aston University to develop the first immune-competent 3D model of human skin (i.e. skin incorporating immune cells), replacing imperfect animal models and driving exploitation of this innovation for the development of novel therapies, toxicology assays and compound screening.