Research Assistant

Department of Paediatrics, Draper Lab, Dorothy Crowfoot Hodgkin Building (DCHB), Sherrington Road, Oxford

This is an exciting opportunity in Professor Simon Draper’s research group in the Department of Paediatrics. As a Research Assistant, you will be focusing on the preclinical development of bispecific antibody therapeutics targeting blood-stage malaria. The position will be varied and will contribute in particular to a Gates Foundation-funded project led by Dr Kirsty McHugh.

Key responsibilities include assisting with sterile cell culture, molecular cloning, protein expression and high-throughput antibody production and characterisation. You will support the general protein/antibody work within the group, which includes general lab duties (maintaining supplies, consumables and instruments), preparing reagents, cataloguing frozen samples, and some data analysis.

This is a full-time post, on a fixed term contract initially until 31 March 2028, funded by the Gates Foundation in the first instance, with the possibility to extend provided further external funding is available.

The Department of Paediatrics is committed to equality and valuing diversity. The Department of Paediatrics has been honoured with the Athena Swan Gold award and a national gender equality charter, recognising the Department's innovative policies and practices.

We provide up to ten paid days annually for skill enhancement and allow applications for additional training funding. Staff are offered access to university healthcare and wellbeing resources, weekly exercise classes and a choir. For staff on work visas we also provide financial assistance towards visa renewal fees.

You will be a motivated individual with a relevant degree in biomedical science or a related field. Previous experience of sterile cell culture, cloning, protein and antibody production and characterisation would be highly desirable. You will be highly organised, have good interpersonal skills and be able to interact productively and collaboratively with other team members. Proven experience in a laboratory environment, good communication skills and the ability to work as part of a team are essential.

Only online applications received before 12.00 midday on Monday 27th July 2026 will be considered.