Postdoctoral Research Assistant (PDRA) in Pancreatic Cancer Immunology

University of Oxford - Nuffield Department of Surgical Sciences

Placed On: 16th January 2026 | Closes: 3rd February 2026 | Job Ref: 184288

About the role

Applications are invited for a motivated post-doctoral scientist to contribute to an exciting immuno-oncology project in the field of pancreatic cancer. This project will explore the role of tumour-associated macrophages (TAMs) in determining therapeutic responses to immunotherapy, with a focus on tumour immunity. The project is led by Dr Keaton Jones, Consultant Surgeon and Senior Researcher in Hepato-Biliary and Pancreatic Surgery. The project will involve work carried out in the Department of Oncology.

This full-time post is fixed-term for 12 months in the first instance (there may be an opportunity to extend). We would be willing to consider applications for part-time hours.

There will be opportunities to develop skills in the technical aspects of mouse surgery, animal models of pancreas cancer, and immunological laboratory techniques. Techniques will include scRNAseq, mass cytometry (CyTOF/IMC) and mass spectrometry. Advanced training in bioinformatic analysis will be provided within the Oxford Medical Sciences Department.

About you

You must be an enthusiastic and motivated laboratory scientist, showing initiative and ability to work independently as well as part of a team. We encourage scientists from all disease backgrounds, but with the necessary cell/molecular biology experience, to apply.

It is essential that you hold a degree in Biochemistry, Cell/Molecular Biology or related, together with relevant laboratory experience. You will also have experience in supporting scientists in a large research group. You will have knowledge of general molecular biology techniques (PCR, protein and RNA purification and quantification, gels, cell culture, etc) and immuno-based techniques (e.g. western blotting, immunofluorescence, FACS).

Application Process

If you would like to discuss this role, please contact Keaton Jones (Keaton.jones@nds.ox.ac.uk)

Applications for this vacancy are to be made online. You will be required to upload a supporting statement, setting out how you meet the selection criteria, curriculum vitae and the names and contact details of two referees as part of your online application. Please quote reference NDSA974 on all correspondence.

Only applications received before noon on Tuesday 3rd February 2026 can be considered.

Interviews will be on Tuesday 17th February 2026.

Committed to equality and valuing diversity