Overview
The Pirbright Institute is seeking a Shared Services Officer / Postdoctoral Research Scientist to join the Coronavirus Cellular Biology group. The role involves conducting research on coronavirus-host cell interactions, using a broad range of virology, cell culture, bioimaging, molecular and biochemical techniques, and a comparative virology approach. The post includes administrative and laboratory management duties in line with career stage.
Responsibilities
* Responsible for carrying out research into coronavirus-host cell interactions, including:
* Setting up, performing and validating high throughput screens to identify host proteins that are beneficial or refractory to replication of coronaviruses, including function of replication organelles, regulation of cellular antiviral and stress responses and viral assembly, budding and exit. This will use a range of virology, bioimaging, cell and molecular biology approaches.
* Generating recombinant coronaviruses using reverse genetics for a range of livestock, bat and human coronaviruses.
* Determining the ability of emerging human and porcine coronaviruses and their bat relatives to regulate antiviral and stress signalling in human, porcine and bat cells.
* Imaging coronavirus-infected cells using standard and advanced bioimaging techniques.
* Following up observations to develop new projects, where appropriate.
* Establishing the use of new techniques within the group, where appropriate.
* Effectively working across a range of projects simultaneously.
* Responsible for communicating the results of the research:
* Presenting research findings at internal and external meetings
* Writing reports and manuscripts, including ResearchFish reporting
* Participating in outreach events to disseminate research to a wider audience
* Responsible for working as a post-doctoral researcher within the Coronavirus Cellular Biology group:
* Participating in regular lab meetings and journal clubs and attending Institute seminars
* Supporting junior members of the group including providing training in laboratory techniques
* Drafting and submitting proposals for intern projects and small research grants, where appropriate
* Writing protocols, risk assessments and other documentation as required
* Laboratory management (ordering, sample inventories, point of contact for equipment maintenance)
* Representing the research group on committees, steering groups and other meetings as appropriate
* Taking responsibility for ensuring that their work in the laboratory is conducted safely and in accordance with local health and safety policies
Qualifications
* A PhD or equivalent experience in a relevant branch of biosciences
* A publication record commensurate with experience
* Significant experience of RNA virus research (such as virus propagation, titration)
* Significant experience of routine molecular biology and biochemistry techniques (e.g. molecular cloning, qRT-PCR, immunoblotting, immunoprecipitation)
* Experience of research into virus-host cell interactions
* Experience of direct and indirect fluorescence microscopy
* The ability to validate and troubleshoot assays
* Evidence of independent working and project development
* Evidence of excellent oral and written communication skills
* Evidence of networking skills with the ability to build effective collaborative relationships
* Experience of working with coronaviruses
* Experience of working with ACDP2/3 pathogens
* Experience working with cell culture from non-model organisms (e.g. pigs, bats)
* Experience of performing and analysing large screens, including bioinformatics experience e.g. CRISPR, proteomics or transcriptomics screens
* Experience of live cell fluorescence microscopy, fluorescent in situ hybridisation, super-resolution microscopy and use of image analysis software
* Experience of electron microscopy (electron tomography, correlative light and electron microscopy)
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
Position details
* Hours: 37 hours
* Employment Type: Permanent/Full Time
* Closing Date: 10 November 2025
The Pirbright Institute provided pay range. Your actual pay will be based on your skills and experience — talk with your recruiter to learn more.
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