Group Leader in Vaccine Technology

Location: Pandemic Sciences Institute, Institute of Developmental & Regenerative Medicine, Old Road Campus, Roosevelt Drive, Headington, Oxford, OX3 7TY

Salary: Research Grade 10: £65,336 - £75,439 with a discretionary range to £84,663 p.a. (pro rata). This is inclusive of a pensionable Oxford University Weighting of £1,730 per year (pro rata).

We are seeking to appoint a Group Leader in Vaccine Technology with a strong focus on viral vector and nucleic acid-based vaccines to join the Emerging Pathogens Vaccine Group within the Pandemic Sciences Institute. This is an exceptional opportunity for a scientist with a proven track record of innovation and an international reputation for excellence in translational vaccine research. 

You will lead a dedicated sub-group within the Emerging Pathogens Vaccine Group, developing and driving a world-class research programme focused on advancing vaccine technologies for outbreak response and pandemic preparedness. The role offers the opportunity to shape the direction of vaccine platform innovation at Oxford, translating scientific discoveries into real-world public health impact. 

You will be responsible for initiating, leading, and implementing long-term, interdisciplinary research programmes in vaccine technology, with emphasis on viral vector and nucleic acid platforms. You will develop new avenues of investigation and lead methodological and conceptual advances within your field. A key part of the role will be mentoring and inspiring junior researchers, fostering collaborations across the Pandemic Sciences Institute, and strengthening partnerships with national and international institutions. You will also drive research funding opportunities, disseminate findings through high-impact publications and international conferences, and play a leading role in strategic planning and intellectual leadership within the Institute and the wider University community. 

It is essential you hold a PhD/DPhil in a relevant discipline and have significant experience of managing a scientific research group with recognised leadership and an established international profile in vaccinology. You will have an exceptional record of impactful publications, successful research income generation, and experience managing complex scientific programmes. Strong communication skills both written and oral are essential, alongside the ability to engage effectively with collaborators, funders, policymakers, and the public. You should be able to demonstrate success in leading and motivating research teams, managing multidisciplinary projects, and translating innovative vaccine technologies into applications with global health relevance. 

Applications for this vacancy should be made online (via the 'Apply' button above) 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 36 months and is funded by Donation Funds. 

Only applications received before 12 midday on 24 November 2025 will be considered. Interviews will take place on Wednesday 3 December 2025. Please quote 182893 on all correspondence.

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