Laboratory Research Assistant

The Oxford Vaccine Group (OVG) are seeking an enthusiastic and driven Laboratory Research Assistant. This is an exciting opportunity to join a team at the forefront of vaccine research, targeting a variety of priority pathogens with epidemic and pandemic potential.
OVG conducts world-leading research into new vaccines and optimising existing vaccines for children and adults. Our research has recently led to the global rollout of a ChAdOx-vectored vaccine against SARS-CoV2 which has saved millions of lives. Recently, a Marburg vaccine developed by the group was selected by the World Health Organisation and other stakeholders for inclusion in efficacy trials during the 2023 outbreak. There are also ongoing Phase 1 clinical trials for vaccines against Lassa fever. This role is essential to deliverance of research projects involving new vaccines against emerging pathogens, across clinical and preclinical studies. You will support the research of Post-Doctoral Scientists, whilst obtaining training in working to Good Clinical and Laboratory Practice standards, HTA guidelines and MHRA regulations.
You will use a variety of techniques from molecular biology and cell biology to evaluate vaccine candidates pre-clinically. This will include the processing blood samples prior to immunological analysis. Training will be provided but previous experience in preclinical work and immunological techniques such as ELISA, ELISpot and flow cytometry is desirable. The role may also involve animal work and Personal Licence Training (PIL) will be provided. You will also participate in developing and establishing methodologies that will be used in pre-clinical to clinical vaccine evaluation.
This position is offered full-time on a fixed-term contract initially until 20 January 2026 with the possibility to extend provided further external funding is available.
This is a readvertisement of vacancy 174776. Previous applicants need not reapply.
About the department
The Department of Paediatrics holds the Athena Swan Gold award (a national gender equality charter) acknowledging the innovative policies and practices developed across the Department.
We encourage staff to develop their skills by offering all staff ten paid days of professional development (pro rata) each year and have a policy where staff can apply to receive funding for further training courses to support their professional development. For staff on work visas, we also offer financial assistance towards visa renewal fees.
Please visit our website to find out more about the Department.

You will be able to work autonomously as well as part of a team, be proactive, participate in meetings and have excellent communication, organisational skills and attention to detail. You will have a keen interest in research and be dedicated to the team's output.