Research Assistant

Location: Oxford Vaccine Group, Churchill Hospital, Oxford

About the role 

We have an exciting opportunity to join the Lambe team, embedded within the Pandemic Sciences Institute and the Oxford Vaccine Group (OVG) in the Department of Paediatrics, as a Clinical Trials Research Assistant. The team undertakes internationally recognised vaccine research against high-consequence viral pathogens, including filoviruses (Ebola and Marburg), arenaviruses (Lassa and Junin), hantaviruses, and emerging arboviruses such as Oropouche.

The post holder will support laboratory and clinical trial activities across preclinical and early-phase vaccine studies, including processing clinical samples, performing and optimising immunological assays, and generating data to evaluate vaccine-induced immune responses. Working within Containment Level 2 laboratories, you will comply with Good Clinical Practice (GCP) and other regulatory requirements. The role requires attention to detail, accurate record-keeping, organisational skills and adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

We are hiring four positions on a full-time, fixed-term contract initially for 12 months, with the possibility to extend provided further external funding is available. Willingness and ability to be flexible in working hours is required with potential for evening or weekend work during busy periods.

About the department 

The Department of Paediatrics is committed to equality and valuing diversity. 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.

About you  

You will be passionate about vaccine research and developing a career in viral pathogens. You will hold an undergraduate degree in Biological Science, together with relevant laboratory experience, including handling human blood samples and performing immunological assays. You will be highly organised, with excellent attention to detail, strong record-keeping and communication skills, and the ability to work effectively in a regulated, fast-paced research environment.

Application Process  

Both a CV and Supporting Statement are required as part of your online application. Applications without both documents will not be considered. The Supporting Statement should 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 Samia Mehraj, Programme Manager, using the contact details below.

Only online applications received before 12.00 midday on Friday 31st July 2026 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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