Postdoc: Autoimmune Neuropathy & B-Cell Immunology

Postdoc: Autoimmune Neuropathy & B-Cell Immunology

Full-Time 35000 - 45000 £ / year (est.) Home office (partial)
University of Oxford

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Join a cutting-edge research team to study autoimmune neuropathy and B-cell immunology.
  • Company: Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences at the University of Oxford.
  • Benefits: Gain experience in two leading European research centres with excellent career development.
  • Other info: Collaborate with top researchers and develop independent scientific expertise.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact on next-generation therapies for multifocal motor neuropathy.
  • Qualifications: PhD in relevant field and strong research skills in immunology.

The predicted salary is between 35000 - 45000 £ per year.

This is an exciting opportunity for a highly motivated Post-Doctoral Research Assistant to join the Inflammatory Neuropathy Research Group within the Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences (NDCN), University of Oxford. The post is funded by GBS|CIDP Foundation International as part of a translational research programme entitled "Decoding and monitoring the immunology of multifocal motor neuropathy to guide next-generation, disease-modifying therapies".

The overall aim of the project is to define and track the pathogenic B-cell clones and autoantibodies driving multifocal motor neuropathy (MMN), and to use this knowledge to inform targeted, disease-modifying therapeutic strategies. The project integrates advanced immunophenotyping, single-cell approaches, B-cell receptor sequencing, antibody cloning, in vitro functional assays (including human iPSC-derived motor neuron systems), and longitudinal immune monitoring.

The post-holder will work under the joint supervision of Prof Simon Rinaldi (Oxford) and Dr Nicolas Dubuisson (Oxford/UCLouvain). The first 18 months will be based in Oxford, focusing on detection and characterisation of pathogenic B-cell clones and antibody cloning. The remaining 18 months will be spent at UCLouvain (Belgium), developing downstream antibody production, characterisation, and therapeutic testing pipelines, while remaining employed by the University of Oxford.

The post offers an outstanding opportunity to contribute to a high-impact translational programme, develop independent scientific expertise in autoimmune neurology and B-cell immunology, and gain experience across two leading European centres.

Postdoc: Autoimmune Neuropathy & B-Cell Immunology employer: University of Oxford

The Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences at the University of Oxford is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters innovation and collaboration in cutting-edge research. With access to world-class facilities and the opportunity to work alongside leading experts in the field, employees benefit from a culture of continuous learning and professional development, as well as the unique experience of contributing to impactful translational research across two prestigious European institutions.

University of Oxford

Contact Details:

University of Oxford Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Postdoc: Autoimmune Neuropathy & B-Cell Immunology

Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to current and former researchers in the field of autoimmune neurology. A casual chat can lead to insider info about opportunities or even a recommendation.

Tip Number 2

Show your passion! When you get an interview, make sure to express your enthusiasm for the research project. Talk about how your skills align with their goals, especially in B-cell immunology.

Tip Number 3

Prepare for technical questions! Brush up on advanced immunophenotyping and single-cell approaches. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will set you apart from other candidates.

Tip Number 4

Apply through our website! We’ve got loads of resources to help you ace your application and connect with the right people. Don’t miss out on this chance to join a cutting-edge research team!

We think you need these skills to ace Postdoc: Autoimmune Neuropathy & B-Cell Immunology

Immunophenotyping
Single-Cell Approaches
B-Cell Receptor Sequencing
Antibody Cloning
In Vitro Functional Assays
Human iPSC-Derived Motor Neuron Systems
Longitudinal Immune Monitoring

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to highlight your relevant experience in autoimmune neurology and B-cell immunology. We want to see how your skills align with the exciting research we're doing at NDCN!

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about this project and how your background makes you a perfect fit. We love seeing enthusiasm and a clear connection to our work.

Showcase Your Research Skills:In your application, be sure to showcase any specific research techniques or methodologies you've mastered that are relevant to the role. We’re particularly interested in your experience with immunophenotyping and single-cell approaches!

Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to keep track of your application and ensure it gets the attention it deserves. We can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!

How to prepare for a job interview at University of Oxford

Know Your Research Inside Out

Make sure you’re well-versed in the specifics of the project, especially around B-cell immunology and autoimmune neuropathy. Familiarise yourself with recent publications from the Inflammatory Neuropathy Research Group and be ready to discuss how your background aligns with their work.

Prepare for Technical Questions

Expect questions about advanced immunophenotyping, single-cell approaches, and antibody cloning techniques. Brush up on your knowledge of these methods and think of examples from your past research that demonstrate your expertise and problem-solving skills.

Show Enthusiasm for Collaboration

This role involves working under joint supervision, so highlight your teamwork skills. Be prepared to discuss how you’ve successfully collaborated in previous projects and how you can contribute to a multidisciplinary team at both Oxford and UCLouvain.

Ask Insightful Questions

At the end of the interview, have a few thoughtful questions ready. Inquire about the future direction of the research group or how they envision the integration of findings into therapeutic strategies. This shows your genuine interest in the role and the impact of the research.