Postdoctoral Scientist – (24P-80)
The Pirbright Institute
Salary: £38,500 - £40,000 per annum
Permanent
Onsite: Woking, GU24
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
We are seeking a highly motivated and innovative Postdoctoral Scientist to join the Avian Virology Group at the Pirbright Institute, led by Professor. Ian Brown.
Professor Brown’s extensive experience and leadership have been instrumental in shaping global strategies for influenza surveillance, control, and prevention, offering you a unique opportunity to work alongside a leader at the forefront of the field. Professor Brown currently leads a large UK consortium providing cutting edge research on Avian Influenza that is directly impacting Science informing international disease control.
In this role, you will play a pivotal part in unravelling the mechanisms driving viral evolution, host interactions, and immune shaping, all of which contribute to the generation of global virus diversity. The insights you uncover will help shape transformative solutions, including more effective vaccines and control strategies.
You will enjoy significant autonomy in designing, executing, and analysing both in-vivo and in-vitro studies, utilizing state-of-the-art technologies and tools to push the boundaries of virological research.
Joining a small, dynamic team of passionate scientists, you’ll have the unique opportunity to:
Drive high-impact research at the intersection of virology, immunology, and molecular biology.
Leverage cutting-edge approaches to better understand avian influenza virus evolution and its implications for global health.
Contribute directly to interventions that address one of the most significant challenges in animal and human health.
Main duties and responsibilities:
Research Programme Delivery:
* Develop, plan, and execute a core research programme on avian influenza, focusing on:
* Mechanisms in ducks underlying the antigenic evolution of H5 high pathogenicity avian influenza viruses (HPAIVs).
* Designing a single H5 influenza antigen to induce protective immunity in chickens against diverse H5 HPAIVs.
* Design, set up, run, and optimize experiments in consultation with the principal investigator and the research team.
* Procure specialist materials and reagents required for the research.
Data Analysis & Troubleshooting:
* Analyze and critically interpret data using appropriate methodologies.
* Troubleshoot technical challenges and optimize experimental outcomes.
Scientific Communication & Publication:
* Prepare materials for publication in academic journals and presentations for scientific conferences, in consultation with the principal investigator.
* Stay up-to-date with relevant scientific literature to inform research activities.
Collaboration & Relationship Building:
* Communicate effectively and in a timely manner with internal and external collaborators.
* Build positive working relationships with colleagues across the institute, including teams such as Animal Services and Health and Safety, to ensure the successful delivery of the programme.
Team Support & Mentorship:
* Assist with the induction, supervision, and mentorship of other research group members.
* Foster a supportive and collaborative research environment by offering assistance and guidance to colleagues when needed.
Active Participation:
* Engage in research group and institute activities, such as research meetings, seminars, journal clubs, and shared laboratory duties.
Record Keeping & Professional Development:
* Maintain complete and accurate records of all research conducted and analyzed.
* Take ownership of personal professional development, seeking training and support as needed in consultation with the principal investigator.
Essential/Desirable requirements
Essential
* A PhD or equivalent in a relevant branch of biosciences.
* Relevant laboratory experience including expertise with virology, molecular biology, characterizing viral growth/titre, and serology using standard virological techniques.
* Evidence of excellent oral and written communication skills.
* Evidence of delivering against objectives, for example through publication in peer-reviewed journals commensurate with career stage.
Desirable
* Experience of working in an approved CL3 laboratory environment.
* Evidence of networking skills with the ability to build effective collaborative relationships.
* Experience of in vivo infections in birds or animals.
* Experience working with viral reverse genetics systems.
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 employee restaurant.
* Childcare allowance.
* Free onsite parking.
* Electric 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.