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.