Job Description
Position Details
Department of Immunology and Immunotherapy, School of Infection, Inflammation and Immunology, College of Medicine and Health
Location: University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham UK
Full time starting salary is normally in the range £33,002 to £35,608 with potential progression once in post to £39,906
Grade: 6
Full Time, Fixed Term contract up to February 2026
Closing date: 27th August 2025
Background
Applications are invited for a Research Associate Position working on human γδ T cells, with an expected start date of October 2025. Due to the short-term nature of this position, the successful candidate will be expected to have significant experience in this area.
The overarching aim of this project is to investigate the fundamental properties of human innate-like and adaptive-like γδ T cell populations. The Research Associate would join the team led by Professor Benjamin Willcox in the Department of Immunology and Immunotherapy.
The Research Associate will be responsible for the processing of human blood and tissue samples and subsequent analysis of γδ T cells. The project uses flow cytometry, FACS sorting, metabolic assays, and multiplex immunohistochemistry to investigate the phenotype, function and localisation of γδ T cells in blood and tissues.
The candidate will be part of an integrative and multi-disciplinary team working collaboratively to deliver this workstream.
To apply, please upload a cover letter and CV.
We expect to interview shortlisted candidates in person.
Role Summary
The role will involve sample processing, analysis and data collection using a range of metabolic, flow cytometry and T cell assays to assess the phenotype and proliferative and metabolic profiles of γδ T cells in peripheral blood and tissues. The role will also involve immunohistochemistry staining (single plex and multiplex) and analysis using Visiopharm and QuPath. The Research Associate will be part of an integrative team working collaboratively to deliver this workstream.
Main Duties
- Assist in the collection and storage of samples and data; liaising with local phlebotomists and the Human Biomaterials Resource Centre.
- Analyse and manage collected biological samples as directed; this may be through a variety of research methods, such as scientific experimentation, literature reviews and data upload.
- Carry out administrative tasks related directly to the delivery of the research
- Participate in research team meetings
- To present research outputs, including drafting academic publications or parts thereof, for example at seminars and as posters
- To provide guidance, as required, to support staff and any students who may be assisting with the research
- Participate and contribute to public engagement events
- Analyse research data as directed
- Develop or adapt techniques, models and methods
- Deal with problems that may affect the achievement of research objectives and deadlines
- Promotes equality and values diversity acting as a role model and fostering an inclusive working culture
Person Specification
- An BSc in the area of Biomedical Sciences or Biological Sciences.
- Understanding and experience of research involving human participants and samples.
- Practical experience of applying the relevant skills and techniques, including experience with handling biological samples, isolation of immune cells, flow cytometry, and immunohistochemistry, including multiplex IHC.
- Practical experience of proliferation and metabolism assays including Ki67/Hoechst, TMRE, and Scenith.
- Practical experience of data analysis, including the use of programs such as GraphPad, FlowJo and Visiopharm.
- Ability to communicate effectively
- Ability to access and organise resources successfully
- Strong organisation and time-management skills
- Cooperative nature and strong teamwork skills, with a willingness to work as part of a multi-disciplinary team
- Knowledge of the protected characteristics of the Equality Act 2010, and how to actively ensure in day to day activity in own area that those with protected characteristics are treated equally and fairly
Further particulars can be found here
Informal enquiries to Sabiha Wazir, email:
[email protected]We believe there is no such thing as a 'typical' member of University of Birmingham staff and that diversity in its many forms is a strength that underpins the exchange of ideas, innovation and debate at the heart of University life. We are committed to proactively addressing the barriers experienced by some groups in our community and are proud to hold Athena SWAN, Race Equality Charter and Disability Confident accreditations. We have an Equality Diversity and Inclusion Centre that focuses on continuously improving the University as a fair and inclusive place to work where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. We are also committed to sustainability, which is a key part of our strategy. You can find out more about our work to create a fairer university for everyone on our website . 
