"Postdoctoral Scientist – B cell Immunology"

University of Oxford - MRC Translational Immunology Unit, MRC, Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, John Radcliffe Hospital

Location: Oxford

Salary: £39,424 to £47,779 p.a

Hours: Full Time

Contract Type: Fixed-Term/Contract

Placed On: 17th March 2026

Closes: 21st April 2026

Job Ref: 185410

MRC Translational Immunology Unit, MRC, Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford. OX3 9DS

About the Role

We are looking for an ambitious Postdoctoral Research Scientist to join the B Cell Immunology Group, led by Professor Oliver Bannard, at the MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine (WIMM), University of Oxford.

Our research focuses on understanding the development of humoral immunity following immunisation and infection, with particular emphasis on antibody affinity maturation, B-cell differentiation, and cellular competition within germinal centres. Germinal centres captivate us both intellectually - as remarkable, self-contained environments of cellular evolution - and practically, for their central role in determining the quality, breadth, and durability of antibody-mediated immune protection. Our goal is to define the biological principles that govern germinal centre function and to understand the origins and roles of the immunological memory they generate. More details about our work and recent publications can be found on the group website.

The Bannard Lab is a well-resourced team with access to state-of-the-art facilities within the MRC WIMM and wider university, and close ties to the MRC WIMM’s advanced genome engineering platforms to facilitate the generation of new experimental models. We are also part of a dynamic and collaborative immunology community that fosters regular discussion and interdisciplinary exchange. We welcome applications from highly motivated, creative individuals with a deep interest in immunology and a strong publication record. A PhD (or equivalent) in a relevant field is essential. 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;

• Be highly self-motivated and enthusiastic to lead an independent research project or projects.
• Hold a PhD (or near to completion) in immunology or a closely related subject.
• Be first author on one or more article(s) in leading journals.
• Work well independently as well as part of a team.
• Enjoy thinking deeply about important scientific problems
• Desire to work in a fast-paced research environment.

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 up to three years 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 21/04/2026 will be considered.