Postdoctoral Research Scientist – (23P-149) The Pirbright Institute
Fixed Term Contract until 31st April 2027
Please note, that this role only offers contributions to VISA sponsorship for the individual employee.
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 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; The successful applicant will spend roughly the first 12 months working at low containment (CL2) under the supervision of Dr Dalan Bailey (Viral Glycoproteins Group) and then approximately two years in the non-vesicular reference laboratory (NVRL) with Dr Carrie Battens group in high containment.
The NVRL works on a range of transboundary viral diseases and host national and international reference laboratories. This specific project is related to Rinderpest virus (RPV) - one of only two globally eradicated viruses. The post holder will report to the Head of the NVRL who has responsibility for the Rinderpest holding facility and reference laboratory at Pirbright. They will be expected to work alongside other members of the Viral Glycoproteins and NVRL groups and support the wider activities of the research teams.
The project has a defined three-year plan.
The post holder will have the opportunity to interact with a wide range of stakeholders including WOAH and FAO, other international reference laboratories and interested parties.
Responsible for carrying out an experimental programme according to research grant milestones, which will include:
Literature review to support project.
Contribute to the day-to-day management of the laboratory.
Communicating project progress, including reporting at group meetings, to the project PIs and during regular project meetings with the funders and stakeholders e.g. Present the data at national and international conferences and drive the production of peer-reviewed publications including producing first drafts of data manuscripts.
Providing support, training and supervision to undergraduate, MSc and PhD students as required
Contributing to scientific community at the Pirbright Institute:
Support all aspects of good laboratory practice including biosecurity, quality assurance and health and safety processes.
Take part in outreach activities to communicate the scientific work to wider, interested audiences.
Be actively involved in the scientific and knowledge community at The Pirbright Institute by attending internal and external seminars and present and discuss own work and ideas
Working with the research community to promote a positive research culture
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.
A PhD in virology/molecular biology
Experience in molecular biology techniques including recombinant protein production and/or molecular diagnostics.
Experience with bioinformatics, sequencing and phylogenetic analysis.
A demonstrated working knowledge of test validation exercises & highly collaborative approach to scientific research
Excellent molecular virology skills, including cloning, tissue culture, PCR and protein purification
Experience of developing and carrying out research studies
Evidence of writing peer reviewed publications
Generous Group Personal Pension Scheme and life cover (subject to age and earnings)
~25 days annual leave per annum, pro rata, plus 10.Buy and sell annual leave
~ Option to carry over up to two weeks annual leave
~ Pirbright gym with subsidised membership
~ Pirbright Lifestyle Hub (employee discount site)
~ Cycle to work
~ Childcare allowance
~ Free onsite parking
~ Electric car charging facilities