Research Assistance

Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology, Roosevelt Drive, Headington, Oxford OX3 7FY

We are looking for an energetic and experienced full-time Research Assistant to join the research group of Professor Tal Arnon at the Kennedy Institute in Oxford, to work within the Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences. The laboratory focuses on the cellular and molecular mechanisms regulating lymphocyte activation and differentiation in vivo. These studies aim to advance our basic understanding of humoral immunity and may have important implications for the development of novel vaccines and therapeutic agents designed to treat a variety of immunological disorders (e.g., allergy, asthma, cancer). The position is suited for an experienced individual that enjoys working in an academic environment and who is keen to support competitive research. For a suitable candidate, who already has a strong scientific background, and who wishes to continue to develop these skills, there will also be an opportunity for academic training, including helping to develop projects addressing novel scientific questions, learning cutting-edge techniques, contributing to publications and enhancing academic skills. You will support the research team in a wide variety of molecular and cellular approaches including flow cytometry analysis, sorting, construct generations, histological analysis, tissue collection, in vivo work etc and routinely liaise with direct supervisor, and other members of group, regarding experiments and general laboratory procedures. You will also contribute to general laboratory maintenance, general laboratory management and administration. You must hold, or be close to graduating with, a BSc (First class or Upper second class, 2.1) or higher degree in Biological Sciences, Immunology, or a related subject (not including pharmacology) with a Home Office personal licence. You must have an extensive experience in handling mice and working with complex mouse models. Previous experience in basic research, preferentially in the field of adaptive immunity, including experience in troubleshooting, adapting protocols and recording results in a clear, timely and organised fashion is essential. Experience with freezing and sectioning tissue samples, ideally using Cryostat, is desirable. This is a fixed-term, full time position for 1 year. Due to the nature of the research at the Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology, this job will require additional security pre-employment checks:

• A satisfactory basic Disclosure and Barring Service check