Postdoctoral Research Assistant

We are looking a talented Postdoctoral Research Assistant to join the group of Associate Professor Tal Arnon at the Kennedy Institute, the University of Oxford. The project will explore molecular and dynamic mechanisms that regulate humoral immunity in the lung with emphasis on the roles of resident memory B cells in this process.

An important advance from the past decade has been the recognition that adaptive immune cells are not only capable of remembering the antigens they encountered but also the specific sites in which these encounters occurred, such that tissues that are susceptible for infection are reinforced with protective clones. This type of localized immunity proved highly effective in the case of resident memory T cells, leading to accelerated pathogen clearance and reduced widespread of infection in multiple tissues and infection types. Recently, B cells were also reported to establish a similar form of non-recirculatory bona-fide tissue-resident population that develops and persists in the lungs of influenza infected mice and humans. However, little is known about the mechanisms and functions of these cells. Using 2-photon microscopy and new mouse models that we developed, we uncovered a network of innate-adaptive cell interactions that coordinates localised humoral responses, culminating in the recruitment of resident memory B cells to infected sites and in the accumulation of plasma cells within these regions (MacLean M et al. Immunity 2022). Our goal is to define the mechanisms that underline this process and to test how resident memory B cell develop, survive and contribute to immunity in the lung.

Suitable candidates include individuals with a strong background in immunology and basic science, who are excited about testing conceptual biological questions in vivo.

You be responsible for the planning, executing and analysing high-quality research, ensuring the validity and reliability of data at all times, maintain ongoing scientific discussion with the PI, keep up-to-date knowledge of relevant publications and submit publications to high quality refereed journals. You will present work progress regularly and actively participate in group meetings and departmental seminars, as well as contribute to the running of the Group’s laboratories with other scientists, technicians and students.

You must hold a relevant PhD/DPhil in immunology or cell biology (or near completion) and you must be able to have a demonstrated ability to lead research addressing fundamental questions using cutting edge science, preferentially in the field of adaptive immunology. You will have extensive knowledge of a wide range of topics in the field of immunology, perform effectively under pressure, execute complex and demanding experiments, demonstrate an excellent work ethics, and show willingness to work flexibly. Experience with advanced analysis of tissues by microscopy is desirable.

Suitable candidates are strongly encouraged to contact Tal Arnon directly (tal.arnon@kennedy.ox.ac.uk).

This is a fixed-term, full time position for 4 years.

Due to the nature of the research at the Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology, this job will require additional security pre-employment checks:

The closing date for this position is 12 noon on Monday 20 February 2023. You will be required to upload a CV and supporting statement as part of your online application.