At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our lab to explore how immunity and cancer interact through innovative research.
- Company: Be part of the prestigious Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences at Oxford.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, pension scheme, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Full-time role with a fixed-term contract until December 2026.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in cancer research while developing your scientific skills.
- Qualifications: Degree in biology or related field; experience with lab techniques is essential.
The predicted salary is between 35681 - 35681 £ per year.
We are seeking to appoint a Research Assistant to reinforce the Translational Ubiquitomics – Cancer Immunology group within the Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (CAMS) Oxford Institute (COI), Nuffield Department of Medicine. The lab studies how cellular ubiquitylation and ISGylation influence innate immunity and cancer immune evasion, with the aim of translating these findings into valid therapeutic targets.
The post will support the characterisation of the therapeutic potential of novel deISGylating enzymes using approaches spanning molecular biology, biochemistry, cellular biology, immunology and proteomics.
You will be responsible for:
- Performing experiments examining deISGylating activity profiles using molecular active site probes and small molecule inhibitors.
- Working with human and mammalian cell lines, including the generation and maintenance of knockout and knockdown cell lines using CRISPR/siRNA.
- Preparing mass spectrometry samples from biological sources including patient tissue biopsies, cell cultures, blood and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs).
- Carrying out functional validation assays such as FACS, ELISA and Incucyte.
- Determining appropriate methodologies to test hypotheses and adapting experimental protocols where necessary.
- Assisting with proteomics and mass spectrometry data analysis.
- Maintaining detailed records, consolidating and presenting data.
- Contributing to laboratory management and biological safety.
- Supporting scientific reports and journal articles.
- Presenting data at conferences and participating in public engagement and required training activities.
It is essential that you hold a degree in biology, immunology, biochemistry, chemistry, biotechnology or a similar discipline. You will have familiarity with biochemistry techniques such as immunoblotting, immunoprecipitation, pull-down assays and in vitro enzymatic activity assays, experience in handling cells and tissue culture including gene knockout/knockdown, and experience in Ubiquitomics techniques to study the ubiquitin system. Exposure to chemical biology and handling small molecule inhibitors and peptides is required, along with basic knowledge of mass spectrometry techniques and experience in sample preparation for proteomic and/or metabolomic analysis. You must demonstrate a responsible and methodical approach to laboratory work and the ability to communicate scientific results clearly and effectively.
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 31 December 2026 and is funded by the department. Only applications received before 12 midday on Tuesday 16 June 2026 will be considered. Please quote 185073 on all correspondence.
Salary (£): Research Grade 6: Salary of £35,681 per annum (pro rata). This is inclusive of a pensionable Oxford University Weighting of £1,730 per year (pro rata).
Research Assistant for Innate Immunity Lab in Oxford employer: Corehr
The Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (CAMS) Oxford Institute offers an exceptional work environment for those passionate about advancing research in innate immunity and cancer immunology. With a strong emphasis on employee growth, collaborative work culture, and access to cutting-edge resources, this role as a Research Assistant provides a unique opportunity to contribute to meaningful scientific advancements while being part of a prestigious institution located in the vibrant city of Oxford.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Assistant for Innate Immunity Lab in Oxford
✨Explore University Career Fairs
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✨Join Biology Communities
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We think you need these skills to ace Research Assistant for Innate Immunity Lab in Oxford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Lab Skills:In the biology field, it's super important to highlight any relevant lab skills. Make sure to include techniques you’ve mastered, like PCR or chromatography, right in your CV. This helps us see your hands-on experience and how you can contribute at Corehr.
Tailor Your Cover Letter with Passion:When writing your cover letter, let your enthusiasm for biology shine through! Share specific examples of projects or research that fuel your passion. It’s the perfect way to convey your motivation and fit for the role of Research Assistant for Innate Immunity Lab at Corehr.
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How to prepare for a job interview at Corehr
✨Brush Up on Your Technical Knowledge
Get ready to dive deep into the scientific concepts related to your field! For a biology role, you'll likely face questions about experimental design, data analysis techniques, and possibly even lab protocols. Make sure you're clear on your coursework and any practical experiences you've had.
✨Show Off Your Lab Skills
Hands-on experience can make or break an interview in biology. Be prepared to discuss your previous lab work, including techniques like PCR, gel electrophoresis, or microscopy. Bring a portfolio of your lab reports or relevant projects to really impress the hiring team at Corehr.
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As this is a full-time position, employers at Corehr are looking for someone who is not just qualified, but truly enthusiastic about biology. Be ready to share specific moments or projects that ignited your interest in the field. A personal story can really set you apart!
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