Job Description
Research Assistant – (23P-157)
The Pirbright Institute
Salary: £31,000 - £32,500 per annum
Fixed Term Contract until April 2026
Onsite: Woking, GU24
Application Closing Date: 22/04/2024
About The Pirbright Institute
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 post holder will work within the Non-Vesicular Reference Laboratories (NVRL) at The Pirbright Institute as part of a large multidisciplinary team.
The NVRL comprises six and WOAH reference laboratories and provides diagnostic and confirmatory testing for both (Defra) and international competent authorities. The post holder will be working in our high-containment facilities with the African Swine Fever Virus (ASFV) and must comply with all biosafety procedures.
The post holder will work on a Defra-funded science project exploring and enhancing control tools for African Swine Fever led by The ASFV vaccinology group. This will primarily be delivered through the development and improvement of diagnostic techniques and evaluation of suitable disinfectants.
Main duties and responsibilities:
Responsible for carrying out an experimental programme and effectively communicating results, this will include:
* Becoming competent in molecular and virological analyses performed across the laboratory.
* Contributing to the validation of new molecular assays for ASFV detection and characterization.
* Assessing the suitability of new cell lines for use in ASFV diagnostic assays.
* Evaluating the effectiveness of different disinfectants for ASFV inactivation.
* Maintaining detailed records of all experiments.
* Perform laboratory maintenance, including housekeeping, reagent supply, and chemical inventories.
* Contribute to the wider activities of the NVRL to support exotic disease control
Due to the nature of the work we do, all successful applicants will be required to go through a comprehensive screening process including reference and qualification checks, financial and security clearances.
Essential/Desirable requirements
Essential
* BSc in microbiology or related discipline
* At least 1 year experience in basic lab practices, in particular molecular biology techniques and cell culture
* Experience in working in a R&D environment
* Enthusiastic and willingness to learn new skills
* Diligent record keeping
* Good computer skills/ knowledge of Microsoft packages
* Time management skills
Desirable
* Experience of validating diagnostic methods
* Experience in working to ISO/IEC 17025 standards or equivalent
* Background Knowledge of livestock diseases
* Scientific publications in a relevant field
What we offer
* Group Personal Pension Scheme and life cover (subject to and earnings)
* days annual leave per annum, pro rata, plus 10.5 public and privilege days
* and sell annual leave
* to carry over up to two weeks annual leave
* gym with subsidised membership
* social club
* Lifestyle Hub (employee discount site)
* to work
* employee restaurant
* allowance
* onsite parking
* 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.
#J-18808-Ljbffr