Job description

Globally, 2.4 million neonates died in the first month of life in 2019. Around a quarter of these early neonatal deaths can be attributed to severe bacterial sepsis, meningitis or pneumonia. 

A better understanding of the neonatal immune system and its ability to tackle infections in early life, is essential to reduce these stark figures. Recent data from our lab and others have transformed our view of human neonatal immunology. Contrary to the previous assumption that the neonatal immune system is an immature version of the adult, we now know that neonatal immunity is both qualitatively and quantitatively distinct from that of the adult. This project, funded for three years by the Medical Research Council, aims to investigate the responses of human B cells in the infant immune system and their role in protecting the neonate from infection. We will use molecular and cellular techniques to interrogate an existing collection of longitudinal samples from preterm infants and prospectively collected samples from term infants at birth and over the first few months of life. It is only with a clearer understanding of how these cells function in the human infant that we can begin to exploit this for the benefit of this vulnerable population.   

This post will be offered on an a fixed-term contract until 31st August 2025  

This is a full-time  post - 100% full time equivalent

Key responsibilities

•        To undertake cell culture, flow cytometry, single cell RNA sequencing and other techniques in assessing the phenotype and function of immune cells in infants 

•        To support clinical aspects of the study  

•        To process samples relevant to the study 

•        To maintain excellent records and research data 

•        To coordinate and assist other members of the research team 

•        To help with student supervision 

The above list of responsibilities may not be exhaustive, and the post holder will be required to undertake such tasks and responsibilities as may reasonably be expected within the scope and grading of the post.

Skills, knowledge, and experience 

Research: An Immunology based PhD with experience in all basic immunological techniques as well as molecular biology experience
 

Teaching: Support and provide teaching to Biomedical Science and MSc Immunology students as they rotate through the laboratory.
 

Administration/Management: Maintain research records according to HTA standards. Conform to local research governance protocols.  

Essential criteria

1.      Lab based Immunology PhD 

2.      Experience in Flow cytometry 

3.      Organised, efficient with excellent time management 

4.      Good communication and interpersonal skills 

5.      Knowledge of R and/or other analysis tools 

6.      Molecular biology experience 

Desirable criteria

1.      Knowledge of infant immunology 

2.      Experience of research and producing peer reviewed articles 

3.      Experience of working in human studies and required flexibility 

4.      Analytical skills and able to self-critique own work 

Continuing Professional Development: Postgraduate teaching and seminars

Teaching and Training: Teaching opportunities within the College as well as postgraduate seminars and internal research meetings