Research Assistant

We are currently recruiting for two motivated research assistants to deliver an exciting programme of research as part of the BREAD study, which aims to discover novel biomarkers of intestinal damage in coeliac disease using RNA sequencing, proteomic techniques and single-cell sequencing. The successful candidates will join a research group led by Dr Michael FitzPatrick, a gastroenterologist and immunologist, and by Professor Paul Klenerman, an immunologist whose group focuses on several aspects of human immunology, including mucosal immune responses, T cell biology, and immune responses to vaccines. The research will take part in the Translational Gastroenterology Unit (TGU), part of the Nuffield Department of Medicine at the University of Oxford. The TGU is a large, collaborative, and supportive laboratory embedded within the John Radcliffe Hospital.

The post holders will be responsible for managing their own academic research and administrative activities with guidance provided by senior colleagues. The work will involve processing human blood and tissue samples, proteomics assays, RNA extraction and library preparation, and flow cytometry, with support and guidance from senior colleagues in the research group. The successful candidates will also have the opportunity to collaborate in the preparation of scientific reports and journal articles, present papers and posters, and represent the research group at external meetings.

To be considered for this position you should have a relevant first degree (Bachelor’s or Master’s), together with experience in wet-lab techniques and data analysis. Having technical experience in project areas including RNA sequencing, working with human samples, and flow cytometry would all be desirable assets for this post. You should possess sufficient specialist knowledge in immunology, biology or biomedical sciences. Excellent communication skills with the ability to write text that can be published, present data at conferences, and represent the research group at meetings, are also essential capabilities for this post. This project would be excellent for recent BSc or MSc graduates looking to develop their skills and experience in immunology research, human sample preparation, proteomic methods, genomic library preparation, and data analysis.

This role offers the successful applicant the opportunity to develop skills in human sample preparation, genomics library preparation, and proteomic techniques. There is also the opportunity to develop skills in bioinformatics and data analysis in R and other software packages. The department and the wider research community in Oxford offers seminars, talks, and courses to further develop your knowledge and skills.

We encourage those interested in applying to contact Michael FitzPatrick (Michael.fitzpatrick@ndm.ox.ac.uk) in advance to find out more.

This post is full time and fixed term for 12 months with a possibility to extend.

Applications for this vacancy should be made online and you will be required to upload a supporting statement and CV as part of your application. The supporting statement must explain how you meet each of the selection criteria for the post using examples of your skills and experience.

Only applications received before 12:00 midday on 5th July 2023 will be considered.