Research Lead - Respiratory Vaccines and Systems Immunology

Location: Department of Paediatrics, Oxford Vaccine Group, Institute of Developmental & Regenerative Medicine IDRM, Old Road Campus, Oxford

About the role

This exciting new role for a ‘Research Lead in Respiratory Vaccines and Systems Immunology’ offers a unique opportunity to work under the direction of Professor Teresa Lambe OBE—an internationally recognised leader in vaccinology—at the Oxford Vaccine Group and the Pandemic Sciences Institute.

You will lead a cutting-edge research programme focused on mucosal vaccine technologies targeting high-consequence respiratory pathogens, with a strong emphasis on translational human immunology and public health impact. Focus areas include mucosal delivery, human immunology, and translational science, with an emphasis on protecting vulnerable groups like children and older adults. 

You will work closely with Professor Lambe and collaborators to investigate mucosal and systemic immune responses to infection and vaccination. Leveraging advanced tools such as spatial transcriptomics, single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNAseq), organoids and other advanced immunological and vaccine technologies. 

In this role you will utilise cutting-edge tools—spatial transcriptomics, scRNAseq, organoids—and contribute to vaccine development for high-threat viruses (e.g. coronaviruses, avian flu). The role offers opportunities to lead impactful, translational research, drive innovation in vaccine design and strengthen global pandemic readiness. We are hiring across three areas; Immune correlates of protection, Novel vaccine and antigen technologies and Multi-tissue organoid immune models. Join us to help shape the next generation of vaccines.

This position is offered full-time on a fixed-term contract initially for two years with the possibility to extend provided further external funding is available.

About the department

The Department of Paediatrics has been honoured with the Athena Swan Gold award, a national gender equality charter, recognising the Department's innovative policies and practices. We are committed to the professional development of our staff by providing up to ten paid days annually for skill enhancement and allowing applications for additional training funding. By joining us, you will have the opportunity to contribute to a forward-thinking department.

We welcome new staff with ideas who are willing to shape the future of the department that thinks about its staff and wellbeing. In addition to the University of Oxford wellbeing resources, the Department of Paediatrics sponsors weekly exercise classes such as yoga and bootcamp sessions as well as a choir. For staff on work visas, we also offer financial assistance towards visa renewal fees. These activities are designed to promote physical and mental wellbeing among staff members.

Please visit our website to find out more about the Department.

Application Process

You will be required to upload a CV and Supporting Statement as part of your online application. The Supporting Statement should include a cover letter and should also clearly describe how you meet each of the selection criteria listed in the job description. Click here for information and advice on writing an effective Supporting Statement. 

To discuss the post in more detail, please contact Teresa Lambe the Professor of Vaccinology and Immunology, using the contact details below. 

Only online applications received before 12.00 midday on 19/09/2025 will be considered. Interviews will be held as soon as possible thereafter. 

The Department of Paediatrics offers an Interview Expense Reimbursement Policy in its efforts towards equality, diversity and inclusion. Should you be invited to interview, we will share further information about the policy at that stage.

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