Job Summary Table of Postdoctoral Research

Job Description Summary

An exciting opportunity for a Postdoctoral Research Assistant to join the Molecular Mucosal Immunology group at the University of Oxford, focusing on bacterial antigen handling and vaccine design to induce high-affinity IgA responses for Klebsiella clearance from the gut.

Responsibilities

• Manage your own research project in Klebsiella vaccine design with a high degree of autonomy
• Develop methodology and experimental approaches in bacterial antigen handling
• Collaborate with the team to explore fundamental principles of mucosal immunology
• Design and execute experiments related to inducing high-affinity IgA responses
• Contribute to the rational design of vaccine structures
• Work in collaboration with Prof Kevin Foster’s lab at the Dunn School

Benefits and Perks

• Competitive salary range (£38,674 – £46,913 p.a.)
• Fixed-term appointment for 3 years with possibility of extension
• Opportunity to work with leading experts in molecular mucosal immunology
• Access to state-of-the-art facilities at the Sir William Dunn School of Pathology
• Comprehensive professional and career development support
• Collaborative research environment with a strong track record of helping postdocs become PIs

Company Overview

The University of Oxford is a world-leading center for research, teaching, and innovation. The Sir William Dunn School of Pathology is a department within the Medical Sciences Division, with a distinguished history of achievement in the field of pathology and immunology. The department is committed to advancing understanding of disease mechanisms and developing new therapeutic approaches.

Postdoctoral Research in Molecular Immunology Opportunities

The Molecular Mucosal Immunology group, led by Prof Emma Slack, is at the forefront of research into mucosal immune responses and vaccine design. This position offers an exceptional opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research in an area with significant potential for clinical impact.

Research Focus and Objectives

As a Postdoctoral Research Assistant in this role, you will be immersed in cutting-edge research focused on bacterial antigen handling in the gut and gut-associated lymphoid structures. Your work will directly contribute to the development of novel vaccine strategies aimed at inducing high-affinity IgA responses for Klebsiella clearance from the gut lumen of high-risk patients.

The project combines molecular immunology techniques with innovative approaches to vaccine design, offering a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of immunology, microbiology, and glycobiology. You will have the chance to develop and apply your expertise in chemical conjugation methods and chromatography of proteins and glycans to address significant challenges in mucosal vaccine design.

Career Development Opportunities

The Foster and Slack labs have an impressive track record of mentoring postdoctoral researchers to become independent Principal Investigators. The majority of postdocs from these labs have gone on to establish their own research groups, demonstrating the excellent career development opportunities available through this position.

At the Dunn School, there is a strong commitment to supporting the professional and career development of postdoctoral researchers. A comprehensive range of opportunities and initiatives have been created to provide an exceptional foundation for future career advancement, whether in academia, industry, or other sectors.

Company Culture

The Sir William Dunn School of Pathology fosters a collaborative and supportive research environment where scientific excellence is prioritized. The department values innovation, interdisciplinary approaches, and the development of early-career researchers. Regular seminars, journal clubs, and opportunities for networking create a dynamic and stimulating academic atmosphere.

Career Growth Opportunities

Working in the Molecular Mucosal Immunology group offers excellent prospects for career advancement. The research experience gained in this position will provide valuable skills and knowledge that are highly sought after in both academic and industry settings. The department’s commitment to supporting postdoctoral researchers in their career development includes mentoring, training opportunities, and support for grant applications and fellowship applications.

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging

The University of Oxford is committed to fostering an inclusive culture which promotes equality, values diversity, and maintains a working, learning, and social environment in which the rights and dignity of all its staff and students are respected.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Applications are particularly welcome from women and black and minority ethnic candidates, who are under-represented in academic posts in Oxford. The University of Oxford is an equal opportunities employer.

Remote Work Policy

This position requires on-site work at the Sir William Dunn School of Pathology in Oxford. The nature of the experimental work necessitates presence in the laboratory.

Application Process

1. Submit your online application through the University of Oxford recruitment portal
2. Provide a CV and supporting statement detailing your relevant experience and skills
3. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews
4. Successful candidates will be notified as soon as possible after interviews

Application Deadline

Applications must be received before midday on Tuesday, 22 April 2025.

How to Apply

To apply for this position, please submit your application online through the University of Oxford recruitment portal. You will need to upload a CV and supporting statement as part of your application. For informal enquiries, contact Prof Emma Slack via email: emma.slack@path.ox.ac.uk.

Contact Information

For administrative queries, please contact: – Contact Person: Mrs Marina Katash – Email: marinal.katash@path.ox.ac.uk – Vacancy ID: 178110

Molecular Immunology Research Requirements

To excel in this Postdoctoral Research Assistant position, you should hold or be close to completing a PhD in biological sciences. Essential experience includes analyzing mucosal immune responses, chemical conjugation methods, and chromatography of proteins and/or glycans.

The ideal candidate will be highly motivated, organized, and able to work both independently and as part of a team. Additional desirable experience includes mucosal immunology, synthetic biology, and microbial glycobiology.

This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to important research in vaccine design while developing valuable skills and expertise in a world-class research environment. The collaborative nature of the project, working alongside the lab of Prof Kevin Foster, provides opportunities for interdisciplinary approaches and broader scientific impact.

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