Job Description

About the role

We have an exciting opportunity an exceptional Senior Immunologist to join the Oxford Vaccine Group (OVG) as part of the pioneering Correlates of Immunity - Artificial Intelligence (CoI-AI) Programme. This ambitious programme combines advanced immunology, artificial intelligence, and human challenge models to transform vaccine discovery and accelerate development against major bacterial pathogens including Streptococcus pneumoniae, Group A Streptococcus, Staphylococcus aureus, and Neisseria gonorrhoeae.

As Senior Immunologist, you will provide scientific and strategic leadership for human immunology activities across the programme. You will design, lead, and interpret cutting-edge immunological studies; develop and validate innovative humoral and cellular assays; and guide a multidisciplinary team to deliver high-quality, standardised datasets suitable for advanced AI analysis. You will play a key role in shaping the scientific direction of the programme, forging collaborations across academia, industry, and global health partners, and contributing to internationally recognised publications.

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 4 years with the possibility to extend provided further external funding is available.

About the department

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 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.

Please visit our website to find out more about the Department.

About you

You will hold a PhD/DPhil in Immunology or a related discipline, with extensive post-qualification experience and a strong record of innovation in translational or clinical immunology. You will bring a proven ability to lead large, complex research initiatives, manage multidisciplinary teams, and develop novel immunological methodologies. A track record of high-impact publications and demonstrated experience in human challenge and/or vaccine studies is essential.

Application Process

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. Click here for information and advice on writing an effective Supporting Statement.

Diversity

Committed to equality and valuing diversity.

To discuss the post in more detail, please contact Professor Daniela Ferreira, using the contact details below.

Only online applications received before 12.00 midday on Monday 1st December 2025 will be considered. Interviews are planned to take place during the first week of January 2026.

The Department of Paediatrics offers an Interview Expense Reimbursement Policy in its efforts towards equality, diversity and inclusion. Should you be invited to interview, we will share further information about the policy at that stage.