Research Technician – Pirbright Institute (Woking, Surrey)
The Pirbright Institute delivers world‑leading research to understand, predict, detect and respond to viral disease outbreaks. Our focus is on livestock viruses and zoonotic threats, using advanced tools to study host‑pathogen interactions and immune responses.
Position Overview
This research technician role is within the Immunogenetics group on a 6‑month fixed‑term contract, with potential extension for the 30‑month Pirbright Livestock Antibody Hub funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. The successful candidate will contribute to B‑cell and antibody response studies in cattle, using state‑of‑the‑art techniques to inform vaccine and diagnostic development.
Key Responsibilities
* Design, perform and analyse experiments assessing B‐cell and antibody responses post‑vaccination in cattle.
* Collaborate with the research team to isolate antigen‑specific antibodies and generate experimental data.
* Execute laboratory procedures according to established protocols, ensuring accuracy and reproducibility.
* Analyse data using statistical and analytical tools to draw meaningful conclusions.
* Maintain laboratory equipment, order supplies, manage inventory and oversee safety protocols.
* Assist in training new laboratory personnel and coordinating sample shipments.
* Prepare and deliver presentations of findings at regular lab meetings.
* Support interdisciplinary projects and assist other team members as required.
Personal Specification
* Intellectually engaged, results‑driven, and able to manage multiple tasks.
* Adaptable to shifting priorities.
* Meticulous attention to detail.
* Creative problem‑solver capable of performing tasks consistently.
* Independent worker with strong teamwork skills.
Required Qualifications
* A MSc or equivalent in a relevant bioscience discipline.
* Experience designing assays with appropriate controls.
* Proficiency in molecular biology techniques (RNA extraction, cDNA synthesis, PCR, ELISA).
* Experience with next‑generation sequencing, library preparation and quality control.
* Ability to analyse data from flow cytometry, ELISpot, sequencing and 10× genomics.
* Knowledge of spectral flow cytometry is advantageous.
Benefits
* Group personal pension scheme and life cover (subject to age and earnings).
* 25 days annual leave (pro‑rated) plus 10.5 public and priviledge days.
* Option to carry over up to two weeks of annual leave and buy/sell leave.
* Pirbright gym with subsidised membership, social club and lifestyle hub.
* Cycle‑to‑work scheme, subsidised staff restaurant and free on‑site parking.
* Childcare allowance and electric car charging facilities.
Employment Details
* Seniority level: Associate
* Employment type: Contract
* Job function: Research and Science
* Industry: Research Services & Biotechnology Research
Application Notes
Applicants will undergo comprehensive screening, including reference and qualification checks, as well as financial and security clearances.
#J-18808-Ljbffr