Technical Specialist (Microbiology & Immunology)

We have an exciting opportunity for a Technical Specialist (Microbiology & Immunology) to join the Oxford Vaccine Group (OVG), providing specialist technical expertise across a diverse portfolio of translational vaccine research. Working across multiple research programmes, you will lead the development, optimisation and implementation of advanced microbiology and immunology methodologies that support cutting-edge studies into immune responses following vaccination and infection.

The postholder will provide expert technical leadership in assay development, validation and quality assurance, working closely with researchers to advise on experimental design and technical approaches. You will contribute to the continuous improvement of laboratory methodologies, oversee specialist laboratory operations, and ensure compliance with biosafety, quality and regulatory standards. You will also play an important role in training and mentoring researchers and technical staff, promoting technical excellence and best practice across the laboratory.

This role offers an excellent opportunity to apply specialist scientific expertise within an internationally recognised research environment while contributing to the advancement of vaccine research through innovation, collaboration and technical leadership. You will be working in a growing department within the Medical Sciences Division. The Department of Paediatrics is a world leader in child health research and hosts internationally renowned research programmes in drug development, gastroenterology, haematology, HIV, immunology, neuroimaging, neuromuscular diseases and vaccinology. The Oxford Vaccine Group is a world-leading academic research group conducting clinical and translational studies to advance vaccine development working with a diverse portfolio funded by industry, government and charitable organisations.

This position is offered full-time on a fixed-term contract initially for 2 years with the possibility to extend provided further external funding is available.

The Department of Paediatrics has been honoured with the Athena Swan Gold award, a national gender equality charter, recognising the Department's innovative policies and practices. We are committed to the professional development of our staff by providing up to ten paid days annually for skill enhancement and allowing applications for additional training funding. By joining us, you will have the opportunity to contribute to a forward-thinking department.

We welcome new staff with ideas who are willing to shape the future of the department that thinks about its staff and wellbeing. In addition to the University of Oxford healthcare and wellbeing resources, the Department of Paediatrics sponsors weekly exercise classes such as yoga and bootcamp sessions as well as a choir. For staff on work visas, we also offer financial assistance towards visa renewal fees. These activities are designed to promote physical and mental wellbeing among staff members.

You will hold a degree in microbiology, immunology, biological sciences or a related discipline, together with substantial specialist laboratory experience. You will have extensive experience developing, optimising and validating advanced microbiology and immunology methodologies, alongside a strong understanding of laboratory quality systems, biosafety and regulatory compliance.

You will have excellent problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret complex experimental data and provide specialist technical advice to researchers. Experience training and mentoring others, managing competing priorities and contributing to the development of laboratory capability will be essential. A postgraduate qualification and experience within translational, clinical or industrial research environments would be advantageous.

You will be required to upload a CV and Supporting Statement as part of your online application. The Supporting Statement should include a cover letter and should also clearly describe how you meet each of the selection criteria listed in the job description.

Committed to equality and valuing diversity.

To discuss the post in more detail, please contact Professor Daniela Ferreira. Only online applications received before 12.00 midday on Friday 21 August 2026 will be considered. Interviews will be held as soon as possible thereafter.