Overview
Department of Oncology - MRC Weatherall Institute for Molecular Medicine, JR Hospital, Headington, Oxford, OX3 9DS. Join Professor Benjamin Fairfax's research group as a Research Assistant to advance understanding of host immunity and genetic variation influencing responses to cancer immunotherapy, particularly immune checkpoint blockade.
Responsibilities
You will play a key role in collecting and preparing patient samples, coordinating experiments, and supporting the smooth running of the laboratory. Your work will include PBMC isolation and cell sorting, DNA/RNA extraction, single-cell and bulk RNA sequencing library preparation, multi-colour flow cytometry, and cell and tissue culture. You will also contribute to lab management tasks such as sample tracking (HTA compliance), ordering, and equipment maintenance. In addition, you will analyse data, contribute to reports and publications, and support wider project planning, including determining appropriate methodologies and adapting experimental protocols.
This role offers excellent preparation for future PhD study.
Employment: full-time, fixed-term until 31 March 2028, based at the MRC Weatherall Institute for Molecular Medicine, JR Hospital, Headington, Oxford, OX3 9DS.
Qualifications
You will hold an undergraduate degree in genetics, biochemistry, molecular biology, or a related field, with a strong interest in immunology and genetics. You must be highly organised, self-motivated, and able to manage your own workload effectively. Experience in standard molecular biology techniques is essential, along with the ability to work collaboratively and maintain high standards of research integrity.
Desirable experience:
* Immunological assays (e.g. flow cytometry)
* Next-generation sequencing
* Functional genomics
* Basic bioinformatics skills
* Strong communication abilities
Benefits
* An excellent contributory pension scheme
* 38 days annual leave inclusive of bank holidays (pro rata for part time)
* A comprehensive range of childcare services
* Family leave schemes
* Cycle loan scheme
* Discounted bus travel and season ticket loans
* Membership to a variety of social and sports clubs
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