Research Associate - Department of Immunology and Immunotherapy - 106170 - Grade 6

University of Birmingham; Birmingham; On-site; GBP 32,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious research university in Birmingham is seeking a Research Associate to work on a short-term project investigating the properties of virus-specific T cells. The role involves sample processing, data collection, and analysis, requiring experience in immunology techniques. Ideal candidates will have relevant education and practical skills in biological research, with a collaborative team environment emphasizing diversity and equality.

Qualifications

• Understanding of research involving human participants and samples.
• Practical experience with peptide-MHC tetramers.
• Experience working with viruses.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the collection and storage of samples and data.
• Analyse biological samples through various research methods.
• Present research outputs at seminars and as posters.

Skills

Handling biological samples

Isolation of immune cells

Flow cytometry

Metabolism assays

Data analysis

Communication

Teamwork

Education

BSc or MSc in Biomedical Sciences or Biological Sciences

PhD preferred

Tools

GraphPad

FlowJo

OMIQ

Job description

Job Description

Position Details

Department of Immunology and Immunotherapy, School of Infection, Inflammation and Immunology, College of Medicine and Health

Location: University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham UK

Full time starting salary is normally in the range £32,546 to £35,116 with potential progression once in post to £39,355

Grade: 6

Full Time, Fixed Term contract up to January 2026

Closing date: 14th August 2025

Background

Applications are invited for a 3.5-month Full-time Research Associate Position working on the metabolic profile of virus-specific resident memory T cells, with an expected start date of October 2025. Due to the short-term nature of this short-term position, the successful candidate will be expected to have significant experience in this area.

The overarching aim of this project is to investigate the fundamental properties of tissue resident T cells (TRM) that are generated at sites of virus infection. These T cells can provide rapid local responses should the same pathogen be encountered again, or if pathogens such as viruses that are carried for life reactivate. TRMs are crucial for long-term memory immune responses and there is widespread interest in developing vaccines that can efficiently induce these cells. We are investigating the properties of TRMs in the setting of Epstein-Barr virus infection, a common herpesvirus carried by over 90% of the population. Our study focuses largely on CD4+ T cells, a key subset that orchestrates functional immune responses. The Research Associate would join the team led by Dr Heather Long in the Department of Immunology and Immunotherapy.

The Research Associate will be responsible for the processing of human samples (e.g. blood, tonsils) and for the analysis of these primary cells. The project will use novel combinations of peptide-MHC tetramers with a range of metabolism assays to uncover fundamental properties of virus-specific TRM cells.

The candidate will be part of an integrative and multi-disciplinary team working collaboratively to deliver this workstream.

To apply, please upload a cover letter and CV.

We expect to interview shortlisted candidates in person.

Role Summary

The role will involve sample processing, analysis and data collection using a range of metabolism, immunology and T cell assays to assess the metabolic profiles of virus-specific tissue resident T cells. The Research Associate will be part of an integrative team working collaboratively to deliver this workstream.

Main Duties

• Assist in the collection and storage of samples and data; liaising with local phlebotomists and the Human Biomaterials Resource Centre
• Analyse and manage collected biological samples as directed; this may be through a variety of research methods, such as scientific experimentation, literature reviews and data upload
• Carry out administrative tasks related directly to the delivery of the research
• Participate in research team meetings
• To present research outputs, including drafting academic publications or parts thereof, for example at seminars and as posters
• To provide guidance, as required, to support staff and any students who may be assisting with the research
• Participate and contribute to public engagement events
• Analyse research data as directed
• Develop or adapt techniques, models and methods
• Deal with problems that may affect the achievement of research objectives and deadlines
• Promotes equality and values diversity acting as a role model and fostering an inclusive working culture

Person Specification

• An BSc or MSc Degree in the area of Biomedical Sciences or Biological Sciences. A PhD Degree in these areas of research is preferred but not necessary
• Understanding and experience of research involving human participants and samples
• Practical experience of applying the relevant skills and techniques, including experience with handling biological samples, isolation of immune cells, culture of human T cells, flow cytometry, ELISA
• Practical experience of metabolism assays including use of metabolic probes, Scenith and Seahorse
• Practical experience of using peptide-MHC tetramers
• Practical experiences of working with viruses
• Practical experience of data analysis, including the use of programs such as GraphPad, FlowJo and OMIQ
• Ability to communicate effectively
• Ability to access and organise resources successfully
• Strong organisation and time-management skills
• Cooperative nature and strong teamwork skills, with a willingness to work as part of a multi-disciplinary team
• Knowledge of the protected characteristics of the Equality Act 2010, and how to actively ensure in day to day activity in own area that those with protected characteristics are treated equally and fairly

Further particulars can be found here

Informal enquiries to Heather Long, email: [e-mail]

We believe there is no such thing as a 'typical' member of University of Birmingham staff and that diversity in its many forms is a strength that underpins the exchange of ideas, innovation and debate at the heart of University life. We are committed to proactively addressing the barriers experienced by some groups in our community and are proud to hold Athena SWAN, Race Equality Charter and Disability Confident accreditations. We have an Equality Diversity and Inclusion Centre that focuses on continuously improving the University as a fair and inclusive place to work where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. We are also committed to sustainability, which is a key part of our strategy. You can find out more about our work to create a fairer university for everyone on our website.