Graduate Research Assistant

**About the Role**





We are seeking an enthusiastic Graduate Research Assistant to join Dr Oliver
Bannard's _B Cell Biology Group_ at the MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular
Medicine (MRC WIMM). The successful candidate will support our efforts to
understand how antibody-mediated immunity develops following immunisation and
during infection.





Our lab has a particular interested in germinal centres—specialised
microenvironments where antibodies evolve through iterative cycles of random
antibody gene somatic mutagenesis and clonal selection of B cells. We are
seeking a highly motivated candidate to perform and assist with experiments
aimed at uncovering the biology of germinal centre responses and the
development of humoral immunity. The role will also include some general
laboratory management tasks. While extensive prior lab experience is not
essential, applicants should be confident working independently at the bench
and have undertaken courses and/or research in immunology. For instance, this
position may be well-suited to someone who has completed a substantial
independent undergraduate research project (e.g., over six months) or
previously held a research assistant position. Training in specific
experimental techniques will be provided.





Further details on the lab's research can be found on the lab website and in
recent publications; https://www.imm.ox.ac.uk/research/units-and-centres/mrc-
human-immunology-unit/research-groups/bannard-group-b-cell-immunology.








Informal enquiries are welcome and can be made to Oliver Bannard
(oliver.bannard@ndm.ox.ac.uk).





**About You**





To be considered for this position you should;





• BSc (First class or Upper second class, 2.1) or higher degree in Biological
Sciences, Immunology or a related subject



• High level of enthusiasm with a strong interest in tackling complex
biological problems.



• Sufficient prior lab experience to feel comfortable working independently at
the bend. Some experience in cell biology assays (e.g. cell culture, flow
cytometry).



• Excellent organisational and interpersonal skills



• Experience in troubleshooting and adapting protocols and recording results
in a clear, timely and organised fashion










**About the Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine**





The Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine (NDM) is one of the largest
departments of the University of Oxford and is part of the Medical Sciences
Division, with responsibility for a significant part of the teaching of
clinical students within the Medical School.





**Benefits of working**





University employees enjoy 38 days’ paid holiday, generous pension schemes,
travel discounts, and a variety of professional development opportunities. Our
range of other employee benefits and discounts also includes free entry to the
Botanic Gardens and University colleges, and discounts at University museums.
See https://hr.admin.ox.ac.uk/staff-benefits





**Application Process**





This position is available for one year in the first instance.





Applications for this vacancy are to be made online. You will be required to
upload a supporting statement and CV as part of your online application.





Only applications received before 12:00 midday on Wednesday 11/06/2025 will be
considered.