Clinical Research Fellow - Developing a human challenge model in Hepatitis C Virus infection (HCV CHIM).

THIS ADVERT HAS BEEN EXTENDED UNTIL 21st November 2025 

About the role

A Clinical Research Fellow is wanted to develop a Controlled Human Infection Model (CHIM) for Hepatitis C Virus (HCV). This model would be the first-ever CHIM for a blood-borne virus and will accelerate the development of HCV vaccines towards eliminating HCV globally.

It is expected that you will be qualified to practice medicine in the UK (UK GMC registered) with clinical experience after graduating ( at least completed both NHS foundation training years after graduation (or international equivalent)). You will work as clinical lead for the HCV CHIM, including recruitment, communication and all procedures with clinical trial volunteers across sites in Oxford and London. Through this, you will develop a deep understanding of CHIMs in general and benefit from the excellent portfolio of CHIM research for which the University of Oxford is internationally recognised.

You will be encouraged to register for a DPhil at the University of Oxford (fees will be covered, subject to non-competitive interview with the graduate studies team), and will work within a team with an international reputation in the field of HCV immunology and virology. Here you will have the opportunity to acquire advanced skills in virology and/or immunology as you develop your research project, uniquely tracking viral evolution and immune responses from a known time point of infection.

Project partners include the University of Oxford (UK) (led by Prof. Ellie Barnes), Imperial College (UK) (led by Prof. Graham Cooke), and Ghent (Belgium) (led by Prof. Philip Meuleman). The study is funded by philanthropic donation.

This post is available for up to three years (with the potential for extension).

Part time and flexible working hours will be considered (minimum 0.8 FTE).

About you

To be considered for this position you should be medically qualified, with clinical experience, and with a license to practice in the UK (UK GMC registration).

You will have previous experience of working in the NHS and an understanding of the governance frameworks in the UK for interventional studies. You will be able to manage complex projects with changing demands. Ideally, you will have had some previous clinical and wet lab skills in the areas of virology or immunology. You will have the ability to work independently, demonstrate excellent interpersonal skills and communicate effectively with people at all levels.

Benefits of working

University employees enjoy 38 days’ paid holiday, generous pension schemes, travel discounts, and a variety of professional development opportunities. Our range of other employee benefits and discounts also includes free entry to the Botanic Gardens and University colleges, and discounts at University museums. See https://hr.admin.ox.ac.uk/staff-benefits

Application Process

Applications for this vacancy are to be made online. You will be required to upload a supporting statement and CV as part of your online application.

Only applications received before 12:00 midday on Friday 21/11/2025 will be considered.