Postdoctoral Research Scientist in Outbreak Pathogens

About the role

We are seeking Postdoctoral Research Scientists to join the Oxford Vaccine Group (OVG) in the department of Paediatrics. You will be based in the Outbreak Pathogens team, led by Professor Teresa Lambe OBE, where you will contribute to the development of vaccines to prevent disease outbreaks from escalating into epidemics and pandemics. The role will support vaccine design, preclinical evaluation, immunological assay development and translational immunology across preclinical programmes and early-phase clinical studies. Current research focuses on rapid vaccine development for filoviruses, including Marburg virus, Sudan ebolavirus and Bundibugyo ebolavirus, as well as hantaviruses, arenaviruses and other emerging pathogens.

These full-time posts are offered on a fixed-term contract for 24 months initially, with the possibility of extension subject to external funding. As laboratory-based roles, they require predominantly onsite working, with flexibility to work evenings or weekends during busy periods. This role meets the criteria for a UK Skilled Worker visa.

About the department

The Department of Paediatrics is committed to equality and valuing diversity and has been honoured with the Athena Swan Gold award. By joining us, you will have the opportunity to contribute to a forward-thinking department.

For staff on work visas, we also offer financial assistance towards visa renewal fees. 

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

About you 

You will hold a relevant PhD/DPhil in vaccinology, immunology, infectious diseases, virology, biomedical sciences or a related discipline, with sufficient specialist knowledge to contribute to outbreak pathogen research, including vaccine design, characterisation or assessment.

You will have strong laboratory expertise in immunology or vaccine development, with experience in techniques such as ELISA, ELISpot, multiparameter flow cytometry, ICS, AIM assays, PCR, Western blotting, immunofluorescence, and sterile cell culture. Experience with neutralisation assays, spectral flow cytometry, systems serology, single-cell or transcriptomic approaches, mucosal immunology, advanced in vitro models, systems immunology, vaccine platforms (e.g. adenoviral or mRNA), protein production or monoclonal antibody generation, animal handling, or GCP/HTA requirements would be advantageous.

You will be able to manage your independent research, produce high-quality analytical outputs, and contribute to publications, presentations and research proposals. You will have excellent communication and organisational skills, with the ability to prioritise work, meet deadlines, and collaborate effectively across multidisciplinary teams. 

Application Process 

You will be required to upload a CV and Supporting Statement as part of your online application. Your application will not be processed if you do not include both documents. 

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 Dr Sagida Bibi at sagida.bibi@paediatrics.ox.ac.uk or Professor Teresa Lambe OBE at teresa.lambe@paediatrics.ox.ac.uk. 

Only online applications received before 12.00 midday on 20 July 2026 will be considered. Interviews will be held as soon as possible thereafter.

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