Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Mucosal Immunology

University of Oxford, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences; Oxford; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious research institution in Oxford is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Mucosal Immunology to join the research group of Professor Dame Fiona Powrie. The role involves managing academic research, analyzing data, and collaborating on scientific reports. Applicants must hold or be nearing completion of a PhD in immunology, with proficiency in immune cell assays and in vivo models of inflammatory diseases. Security checks are mandatory. Closing date for applications: 12 noon on Monday 22nd December 2025.

Qualifications

• PhD/DPhil in immunology or a related field required.
• Proficiency in immune cell assays like flow cytometry and ELISA.
• Experience in in vivo models of inflammatory diseases essential.

Responsibilities

• Manage academic research and administrative activities.
• Test hypotheses and analyze scientific data.
• Collaborate in preparation of scientific reports and presentations.

Skills

Innate and adaptive immune cell assays

Flow cytometry

ELISA

Experience with in vivo models of inflammatory diseases

Education

PhD/DPhil in immunology or a related field

Tools

Multi-parameter flow cytometry software

Job description

We are seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Mucosal Immunology to join the research group of Professor Dame Fiona Powrie at the Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology in Oxford, working within the Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences. Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) are chronic and debilitating conditions affecting over 5M people worldwide. They arise due a breakdown in the dialogue between the immune system and the intestinal microbiome, leading to aberrant inflammation. This project will examine the interaction between host genetics and the microbiome with a specific emphasis on barrier surfaces immunity.

As a Postdoctoral Research Assistant, you will be responsible for managing own academic research and administrative activities. This involves small scale project management, to co‑ordinate multiple aspects of work to meet deadlines. You will test hypotheses and analyse scientific data from a variety of sources, reviewing and refining working hypotheses as appropriate. Additionally, you will collaborate in the preparation of scientific reports and journal articles and occasionally present papers and posters, and represent the research group at external meetings/seminars, either with other members of the group or alone.

You must hold, or be close to completion of, a PhD/DPhil in immunology or a related field. You should demonstrate proficiency in innate and adaptive immune cell assays such as flow cytometry and ELISA, and have proven experience in in vivo models of inflammatory diseases such as colitis or arthritis. Previous experience contributing to publications/presentations, as well as the ability to contribute to broader management and administrative processes, is essential. Familiarity with immune signalling pathways and previous experience of multi‑parameter flow cytometry software are 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 basic Disclosure and Barring Service check
• University security screening (eg identity checks) due to the nature of the work at the Kennedy Institute

The closing date for applications is 12 noon on Monday 22nd December 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 quote183819 in all correspondence. Please note, due to departmental closure over the Christmas period, shortlisting and interviews for this position will take place in January 2026.