Bannard Group: Development of Antibody-Mediated Immunity following Infection and Vaccination (B Cell Immunology)

Supervisor: Oliver Bannard

About the Research

Our lab seeks to unravel the mechanisms responsible for establishment of antibody-mediated (humoral) immunity during infections and following immunization. We have a particular interest in germinal centres (GCs).

Germinal centres (GCs) are specialised structures that develop  in secondary lymphoid tissues during immune responses. Here, B cells undertake a remarkable process known as antibody affinity maturation – this involves them somatically mutating their antibody-encoding genes and undergoing sequential rounds of competitive affinity-based selection, leading to progressive increases in antibody binding strength. At their best, GCs can reshape antibodies with negligible starting affinity into highly potent and protective molecules, such those that can provide broad protection to HIV viruses (HIV bNAbs). As such, GCs enable our humoral immune systems to adapt to each new pathogen encountered. Following their maturation, some GC B cells are chosen to differentiate, giving rise to long-lived memory B cells and plasma cells. By establishing how antibody affinity maturation and B cell differentiation are regulated, we aim to inform the rational design of better vaccines. We are also motivated by the fascinating and unique nature of the underpinning biology. 

DPhil projects in the Bannard lab are centred around deciphering the fundamental biological processes underpinning selection in GCs and the development of humoral immunity. Recent DPhil student projects have involved providing a first snapshot of the GC-derived plasma cells generated during infection (Sprumont et al 2023, Cell, PMID 37951212), identifying a new “non-binary” GC selection model (Long et al. 2022, Science Immunology PMID 35275753) and defining a previously unknown negative selection process that deletes B cells that have acquired damaging mutations (Stewart et al. 2018, Immunity PMID 30231983). Following their death, such cells are rapidly cleared by a unique macrophage subset called tingible body macrophages, which we recently demonstrated the developmental origin and functional behaviours of (Grootveld et al. 2023, Cell, PMID 36868219). 

We study cells within their native tissue context by making use of complex in vivo genetically modified models, cutting edge ex vivo analysis (e.g., single cell RNA-seq, high end flow cytometry, confocal microscopy, single B cell antibody cloning), and live in situ imaging to visualise and track cell behaviour in real time. Our studies are performed in the context of infections and immunisations. As such, students can expect receive strong intellectual and practical science training. 

This project will supervised by Professor Oliver Bannard and conducted in the Bannard Lab. Additional support will be provided by Professor Simon Davis. 

Informal enquiries are welcomed and can be directed to oliver.bannard@ndm.ox.ac.uk

This project is not suitable for part-time study. 

Training Opportunities 

Project will be based in the Bannard lab in the MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine (MRC WIMM). Training in various cutting-edge technologies will be provided. Examples include confocal microscopy, live 2-photon imaging and photo-conversion, high-end flow cytometry, single cell RNA-seq, single B cell (antibody) cloning, protein expression, gene editing, in vivo biology. Depending on the research direction taken, students may also learn bioinformatics. 

Students will be enrolled on the MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine DPhil Course, which takes place in the autumn of their first year. Running over several days, this course helps students to develop basic research and presentation skills, as well as introducing them to a wide range of scientific techniques and principles, ensuring that students have the opportunity to build a broad-based understanding of differing research methodologies.

Generic skills training is offered through the Medical Sciences Division's Skills Training Programme. This programme offers a comprehensive range of courses covering many important areas of researcher development: knowledge and intellectual abilities, personal effectiveness, research governance and organisation, and engagement, influence, and impact. Students are actively encouraged to take advantage of the training opportunities available to them.

As well as the specific training detailed above, students will have access to a wide range of seminars and training opportunities through the many research institutes and centres based in Oxford.

The Department has a successful mentoring scheme, open to graduate students, which provides an additional possible channel for personal and professional development outside the regular supervisory framework. We hold an Athena SWAN Silver Award in recognition of our efforts to build a happy and rewarding environment where all staff and students are supported to achieve their full potential.

Additional Supervisors

1. Simon Davis

Publications