Research Assistant

We are seeking a Research Assistant to join the newly established research group led by Dr Malcolm Sim, which focuses on understanding Killer cell Immunoglobulin-like Receptors (KIR) and their role in human disease. KIR are a family of natural killer (NK) cell receptors that bind MHC-I molecules and are linked to a range of conditions including cancer, viral infection and pregnancy disorders. The group is working to uncover how peptides presented by MHC-I regulate KIR recognition and NK cell effector function, using novel methods to define KIR peptide-specificity and generate tools for further study.

In this role, you will use peptide libraries and KIR binding assays to define specificity across multiple MHC-I alleles, and perform functional experiments with primary NK cells to validate ligands. Your work will primarily involve sterile tissue culture, flow cytometry and molecular biology. There will also be scope to expand the project, developing novel high-throughput screening methods in collaboration with Dr Ricardo Fernandes at the Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Oxford Institute. You will take responsibility for planning and carrying out experiments, analysing and presenting results, and contributing to publications and reports. You will work closely with colleagues within the group and across related research teams, supporting shared activities and helping to maintain the smooth running of the laboratory. The role also offers opportunities for presenting your work at meetings and for engaging in departmental activities.

It is essential that you hold a degree in a relevant biomedical science area, with good knowledge of immunology, including NK cell biology, receptor–ligand interactions, MHC-I structure and antigen presentation. You will need proven laboratory experience, ideally with molecular biology, proteomic and immunological techniques such as flow cytometry, and should be confident working with experimental protocols and adapting them where needed. Experience in sterile tissue culture and cellular immunology techniques would be a strong advantage. Strong communication skills, including the ability to present results clearly and contribute to publications, are essential. An MSc in a relevant field, significant experience with multi-parameter flow cytometry, or authorship on a scientific publication would be desirable.

Applications for this vacancy should be made online 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 MRC.

Only applications received before 12 midday on Tuesday 21 October 2025 will be considered. Please quote 182136 on all correspondence.

Advert information