Senior Postdoctoral Scientist (Immunology & Molecular Biology) – HIV vaccine group

We are seeking to appoint a Senior Postdoctoral Scientist (Immunology & Molecular Biology) to join the HIV vaccine group at the Jenner Institute, Nuffield Department of Medicine. The group is dedicated to developing an effective vaccine for prevention and cure of HIV-1 infection, using innovative strategies to enhance understanding and induction of protective T-cell responses and optimise synergistic combinations of T cell- and antibody-mediated immunity. The programme focuses on evaluating conserved-region, bivalently mosaic HIVconsvX immunogens delivered by ChAdOx1 and MVA vectors in clinical trials, assessing safety, immunogenicity and ART-free post-intervention control of HIV-1.

In this role, you will contribute to HIV-1 vaccine development programmes by developing research questions, conducting independent research, and supporting grant applications and funding initiatives. You will process and assay clinical trial samples, design and conduct research in cell and tissue culture using techniques such as ELISpot, ELISA and flow cytometry, and cell and tissue culture. You will analyse and interpret data, and present findings internally and externally. You will liaise with collaborators, manage sample and reagent exchange, and maintain documentation for regulatory compliance. You will supervise and train staff and students, contribute to publications and presentations, support laboratory management and contribute directly to scientific discussions.

It is essential that you hold a PhD/DPhil in immunology or a related biological science with extensive experience in the induction of cellular and humoral immune responses against viral pathogens, and a strong publication record. You will have the expertise to develop research projects and methodologies, and hands on experience in human and murine immunology techniques.

You must have demonstrated experience in recombinant DNA and immunology techniques including ELISpot and flow cytometry, alongside the ability to raise research funds through grant applications. You will have strong communication skills, the ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team, and a structured and organised approach to research.

Applications for this vacancy should be made online and you will need to upload a supporting statement and CV. Your supporting statement must explain how you meet each of the selection criteria for the post using examples of your skills and experience. Please restrict your documentation to your CV and supporting statement only. Any other documents will be requested at a later date.

This position is offered full time on a fixed term contract until 30 November 2026 and is funded by the National Institutes of Health.

Only applications received before 12 midday on 9 April 2026 will be considered. Please quote 185774 on all correspondence.

Contact Person: Phoebe Astbury
Vacancy ID: 185774
Closing Date & Time: 09-Apr-2026 12:00
Pay Scale: RESEARCH GRADE 8
Contact Email: recruitment@ndm.ox.ac.uk
Salary (£): Research Grade 8: Salary in range £49,119 - £58,265 per annum (pro rata). This is inclusive of a pensionable Oxford University Weighting of £1,730 per year (pro rata).

Location: Jenner Institute, Old Road Campus Research Building, Headington, Oxford, OX3 7DQ