Senior Technical Specialist

About the role 

We have an exciting opportunity for a Senior Technical Specialist to join the Oxford Vaccine Group (OVG), providing strategic technical leadership across a broad portfolio of translational vaccine research. Working with multidisciplinary teams, you will shape the development of advanced microbiology and immunology methodologies, laboratory platforms and technical capabilities that support internationally recognised research into vaccine development and immune correlates of protection. 

The postholder will lead the development and implementation of innovative laboratory methodologies and emerging technologies, influencing experimental design and research strategy through expert technical input. You will oversee specialist laboratory infrastructure, drive quality and reproducibility across research programmes, and provide senior technical leadership through mentoring, training and capability development. You will also contribute to collaborative funding applications, publications and external partnerships, helping to strengthen the Oxford Vaccine Group's international reputation for technical excellence. 

This role offers an outstanding opportunity to lead the development of research technologies within one of the world's leading academic vaccine research groups while contributing to innovative translational research with global health impact. 

You will be working in a growing department within the Medical Sciences Division. The Department of Paediatrics is a world leader in child health research and hosts internationally renowned research programmes in drug development, gastroenterology, haematology, HIV, immunology, neuroimaging, neuromuscular diseases and vaccinology. The Oxford Vaccine Group is a world-leading academic research group conducting clinical and translational studies to advance vaccine development working with a diverse portfolio funded by industry, government and charitable organisations. 

This position is offered full-time on a fixed-term contract initially for 2 years with the possibility to extend provided further external funding is available.  

About the 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 healthcare and 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 hold a degree in microbiology, immunology, biological sciences or a related discipline, together with extensive specialist experience, normally including a PhD or equivalent expertise. You will have a proven track record of leading the development and implementation of advanced microbiology and immunology methodologies, platforms or technical capabilities within a research environment. 

You will be recognised for your specialist technical expertise and your ability to influence research through innovation, strategic thinking and scientific leadership. You will have extensive experience interpreting complex scientific data, leading technical projects and developing laboratory standards, together with excellent communication, mentoring and collaboration skills. Experience contributing to major collaborative research programmes, funding applications or the implementation of emerging technologies would be highly desirable. 

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.

 Only online applications received before 12.00 midday on Tuesday 1st September 2026 will be considered. Interviews will be held as soon as possible thereafter. 

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