Postdoctoral Research Scientist
Salary: £40,000 - £42,500 per annum
Fixed Term Contract until 30/11/2027
Onsite: Woking,Surrey GU24
Application closing date: 08/10/2025
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. This important research would not be possible without the proportionate use of animals, which are integral to the development of new disease control measures such as vaccines and diagnostics. We have an establishment-wide commitment to the 3Rs (replacement, reduction and refinement), high standards of animal welfare, a culture of care and openness.
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 T-cell Biology group investigates immune responses following infection and immunisation in various livestock species, with a primary focus on pigs. For a project funded by the EU Partnership on Animal Health and Welfare (EUPAHW - Home) it is currently seeking a postdoctoral scientist. The project investigates local immunological processes in the reproductive form of the porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) using cutting edge technologies such as single-cell RNA-seq, spatial transcriptomics and tetramer reagents.
The postdoctoral scientist will contribute to this European project which has additional partners in Austria and Spain. The job holder will report directly to, and work closely with, Group Leader Dr Wilhelm Gerner.
Main duties and responsibilities:
Responsible for driving the wet lab research in the UK component of this multi-partner project:
* Participate in sample collection during post-mortems of livestock
* Conduct epitope screening with PRRSV primed T cells using overlapping peptides
* Generate and validate tetramer reagents for the identification of PRRSV-specific CD8 T cells
* Perform scRNA-seq and spatial transcriptomics experiments and contribute to data analysis
* Draft and write scientific reports and manuscripts
* Present research findings in internal meetings and at national and international conferences
* Assist with laboratory management, including ordering supplies, maintaining equipment, and managing sample inventories
* Ensure that all laboratory work is conducted safely and in accordance with local health and safety policies
* Develop and maintain documentation related to health, safety, and biosecurity to support a safe working environment
* Engage in outreach activities as appropriate
Specific requirements
Essential
* A PhD in a relevant branch of the biosciences
* Strong knowledge of basic immunology and immunological concepts
* Documented experience in multi-colour flow cytometry
* Documented experience in the expression of recombinant proteins
* Documented experience in T cell assays (e.g. IFN-γ ELISpot)
* Evidence of excellent oral and written communication skills
Desirable
* Experience in immunofluorescence imaging
* Experience in performing single cell RNA-sequencing experiments
* Experience in performing spatial transcriptomics experiments
* Experience in conducting animal experiments with livestock
* Evidence of networking skills with the ability to build effective collaborative relationships
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 staff restaurant
* Childcare allowance
* Free onsite parking
* Electric Car charging facilities