Research Assistant

Location: Old Road Campus, Roosevelt Drive, Headington, Oxford, OX3 7TY.

Salary: Research Grade 6: Salary in range £34,982 - £40,855 per annum (pro rata). This is inclusive of a pensionable Oxford University Weighting of £1,500 per year (pro rata).

We are seeking to appoint a Research Assistant to support the development and optimisation of viral-vectored vaccine platforms within Professor Dame Sarah Gilbert’s research group at the Pandemic Sciences Institute. The role involves routine molecular and cell biology work, along with in vitro and in vivo studies to assess transgene expression, immune response, and platform stability. You will work closely with senior scientists and technical staff, contributing to collaborative projects, internal reporting, and scientific publications. This position would suit someone with a strong foundation in molecular biology, attention to detail, and a proactive, team-oriented approach to research.

You will be responsible for managing your own academic research and administrative tasks, including small-scale project management to coordinate different aspects of work and meet deadlines. You will contribute to project planning and development by adapting existing protocols and supporting new approaches as needed. A key part of your role will be to analyse and interpret research findings, helping to prepare internal reports, presentations, and scientific manuscripts. You’ll also take part in day-to-day lab organisation, ensuring safety procedures are followed and supporting the smooth running of the lab. In addition, you will be expected to complete any mandatory training required by the University, and occasionally take part in public engagement and widening access activities within the department.

It is essential that you hold an undergraduate degree in cell or molecular biology or other relevant subject. You should have hands-on experience in molecular biology, mammalian cell culture, and immunological assays, including techniques such as plasmid design, cloning, PCR/RT-qPCR, western blotting, viral vector work (e.g. adenovirus), and immune readouts like ELISA, ELISpot, or flow cytometry. Experience with advanced vaccine platforms, such as multivalent constructs, polycistronic systems, high-capacity vectors, or self-amplifying technologies, is also essential, as is the ability to work independently, follow and adapt protocols, and maintain high standards of documentation. Strong communication skills, including the ability to write clearly, present findings, and contribute to publications, are equally important.

Applications for this vacancy should be made online via the above ‘Apply’ button and you will need to upload a supporting statement and CV. Your supporting statement must explain how you meet each of the selection criteria for the post using examples of your skills and experience. Please restrict your documentation to your CV and supporting statement only. Any other documents will be requested at a later date.

This position is offered full time on a fixed term contract for 12 months and is funded by Donation.

Only applications received before 12 midday on 8 August 2025 will be considered. Please quote 181237 on all correspondence.

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