Postdoctoral Scientist

The Pirbright Institute delivers world-leading research to understand, predict, detect, and respond to viral disease outbreaks. We study viruses of livestock that are endemic and exotic to the UK, including zoonotic viruses, by using the most advanced tools and technologies to understand host-pathogen interactions in animals and arthropod vectors. Our major strength in understanding the immune systems of livestock provides a platform to control current diseases and respond to emerging threats.

Our Institute is made up of a dynamic and vibrant community of staff covering a diverse set of chosen fields, backgrounds, and experience. We all play a crucial role in furthering the Institute’s aspirations, advancing the frontiers of science and knowledge through our excellent scientific research, knowledge sharing and contribution; with a real focus in improving the world in which we live. Our outlook is always balanced by our strong sense of purpose, values and behaviours and an unwavering commitment to a ‘one Institute’ approach.

Organisation position and purpose

The Postdoctoral Scientist will work in the Avian Virology group, a team of one postdoc and group lead carrying out fundamental research to track, monitor and understand how avian influenza viruses evolve, interact with different hosts, shaping immunity and generating global virus diversity with outputs focused on improved interventions such as vaccination. The position is permanent reporting to the group lead but working across a broader programme of researchers studying different aspects of animal influenza viruses. The role will have strong autonomy in the design, execution, and analyses of in-vivo and in-vitro studies using some cutting-edge technologies and tools.

Main duties and responsibilities:

• Develop, plan, and execute in a timely manner the delivery of a core research programme on avian influenza relating to, but not exclusively to i) mechanisms in ducks underlying antigenic evolution of H5 high pathogenicity avian influenza viruses (HPAIVs) ii) design of a single antigen to H5 influenza that can induce protective immunity in chickens against antigenically diverse H5 HPAIVs. Tasks include the design, set-up, running and optimisation of experiments, in consultation and collaboration with the principal investigator and other members of the research group.
• Procurement of specialist materials and reagents.
• Analyse and critically interpret data using methodologies appropriate to the field. Trouble shoot failures in technical outputs.
• Keep up to date with relevant scientific literature.
• Prepare, in consultation with the principal investigator and other colleagues, material for publication in academic journals and for presentation at scientific conferences.
• Communicate effectively and in a timely manner with all internal and external collaborators involved in research related to these projects. Build positive working relationships with colleagues in other areas of the institute for successful delivery of programme of work i.e. Animal Services, Health, and Safety.
• Assist in the induction, supervision, and mentorship of other research group members.
• Actively participate in and contribute to institute and research group culture and activities, including research meetings, seminars, journal clubs, and shared laboratory duties.
• To be supportive of other research group members and offer constructive assistance if needed.
• Maintain complete and accurate records of all research conducted and analysed during employment in this research group.
• Take ownership of own personal professional development and actively communicate with the principal investigator and other department members in seeking training and support required to successfully perform research duties.

This job description is only an outline of the tasks, responsibilities and outcomes required of the role. The jobholder will carry out any other duties as may be reasonably required by their line manager. The job description and personal specification may be reviewed on an ongoing basis in accordance with the changing needs of The Pirbright Institute.

Personal Specification

This role will require effective time management, reliability under pressure, decision making/problem solving/creative skills, flexibility, results driven and a collaborative worker.

Essential/Desirable requirements

Essential

• A PhD or equivalent in a relevant branch of biosciences.
• Relevant laboratory experience including expertise with virology, molecular biology, characterizing viral growth/titre, and serology using standard virological techniques.
• Evidence of excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Evidence of delivering against objectives, for example through publication in peer-reviewed journals commensurate with career stage.

Desirable

• Experience of working in an approved CL3 laboratory environment.
• Evidence of networking skills with the ability to build effective collaborative relationships.
• Experience of in vivo infections in birds or animals.
• Experience working with viral reverse genetics systems.

Due to the nature of the work carried out by Pirbright, all successful applicants will be required to go through a comprehensive screening process including reference and qualification checks, financial and security clearances.

What we offer

• Generous Group Personal Pension Scheme and life cover (subject to age and earnings).
• 25 days annual leave per annum, pro rata, plus 10.5 public and privilege days.
• Buy and sell annual leave.
• Option to carry over up to two weeks annual leave.
• Pirbright gym with subsidised membership.
• Pirbright social club.
• Pirbright Lifestyle Hub (employee discount site).
• Cycle to work.
• Subsidised employee restaurant.
• Childcare allowance.
• Free onsite parking.
• Electric car charging facilities.

Due to the high volume of applications, we receive, if you have not heard from us within one month from closing date of the vacancy, then please contact us on jobs@pirbright.ac.uk for an update.