Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Immunology

University of Oxford, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences; Oxford; On-site; GBP 38,000 - 46,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading research institution in Oxford seeks a Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Immunology. The position involves planning and executing high-quality research to understand B cell activation in vivo. Candidates must hold a relevant PhD/DPhil and demonstrate strong research leadership. The role offers a full-time, fixed-term contract for 2 years, with a salary range of £38,674 - £45,628. Applications close on 1 August 2025.

Qualifications

• PhD/DPhil in immunology or cell biology (or near completion).
• Proven ability to independently lead and complete impactful research.
• Experience in conducting demanding experiments with large cohorts of mice.

Responsibilities

• Plan, execute and analyze high-quality research.
• Maintain ongoing scientific discussions with the PI.
• Develop new scientific techniques and experimental protocols.

Skills

Strong background in immunology

Ability to conduct complex experiments

Experience with microscopy

Leadership in research projects

Education

PhD/DPhil in immunology or cell biology

Job description

Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology, Roosevelt Drive, Headington, Oxford OX3 7FY.
180920 – Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Immunology
Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences (NDORMS)
Grade 7: Salary in the range of £38,674 - £45,628 per annum.
This is a full time, fixed term position for 2 years.

We are looking a passionate Postdoctoral Research Assistant to join the group of Prof Tal Arnon at the Kennedy Institute, the University of Oxford. Our lab’s goal is to understand how B cells are activated in vivo. We aim to identify the micro-anatomical niches in which B cells receive activating and inhibitory signals, to uncover the cellular and molecular mechanisms that act within these sites, and to determine how these events lead to a balanced immune response in different conditions and physical constrains imposed by each organ. Ultimately, we aim to enhance our fundamental understanding of mechanisms that drive protective and harmful antibody responses.

We are looking for candidates with a strong background in immunology and basic science, who are excited about testing conceptual biological questions in vivo, and who thrive in professional and high-pressure environments where scientific curiosity and focus drive excellence.

You will take responsibility for the planning, execution and analysis of high-quality research, ensuring the validity and reliability of data at all times and will maintain ongoing scientific discussion with the PI and keep up-to-date knowledge of relevant publications. You will be responsible for adapting existing scientific techniques and experimental protocols and developing new ones, when relevant. In this post you will present work progress regularly and actively participate in group meetings and departmental seminars as well as submit publications to high quality refereed journals. You will contribute to the smooth running of the Group’s laboratories with other scientists, technicians and students, whilst maintaining highly organised and accurate records of experimental work and findings.

You must hold a relevant PhD/DPhil in immunology or cell biology (or near completion) together with proven evidence for ability to independently lead and complete impactful research projects that address fundamental questions in the field of adaptive immunity. You demonstrate evidence of excellent conceptual understanding of a wide range of topics in the field of adaptive and innate immunity, most notably in the area of B cell biology and spatiotemporal regulation of immune responses. Additionally, you will have proven experience in independently conducting complex and demanding experiments using large cohorts of mice on regular basis. You must be able to perform effectively under pressure, demonstrate an excellent work ethics, professionalism and willingness to work flexibly.
Experience with advanced analysis of tissues by microscopy, and working with mucosal tissues, like the lung or skin is desirable.

Due to the nature of the research at the Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology, this job will require additional security pre-employment checks:
• A satisfactory enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service check
• University security screening (eg identity checks)

The closing date for applications is 12 noon on Friday 1 August 2025. Applications for this vacancy are to be made online. You will be required to upload a CV and supporting statement as part of your online application. Please quote180920 in all correspondence.