Deputy Head of Vesicular Disease Reference Laboratory Group

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

This newly established Deputy position will support the Head of the Vesicular Disease Reference Laboratory (VDRL) and the World Reference Laboratory for Foot-and-Mouth Disease (WRLFMD), to ensure resilience, continuity, and strategic development across reference laboratory services and research within the group.

This role will provide critical operational and scientific leadership to drive excellence in diagnostics, research output, funding acquisition, and collaborative integration with other Institute science programmes.

You will direct the strategic development of the group by increasing publication outputs, improving internal efficiency, and securing new external funding streams in alignment with Institute priorities and global programs to control FMD.

Main duties and responsibilities

Leadership and Team Management

• Deputise for the Head of Group in all aspects of scientific and operational leadership, representing the VDRL and WRLFMD internally and externally as needed.
• Lead regular group meetings, ensuring clear communication of Institute and group strategy, scientific priorities, and resource planning.
• Provide direct line management to the team leaders overseeing the four functional sections of the VDRL: Serology, Virology, Molecular Epidemiology, and New Technologies.
• Mentor and develop early- and mid-career scientists, fostering a collaborative and high-performing team culture.

Scientific and Operational Coordination

• Oversee delivery and development of diagnostic testing, ensuring continued accreditation and improvements in quality assurance (QA) systems and scope.
• Ensure UK outbreak readiness by contributing to contingency planning, scenario testing, and ring trials, and participate in the Exotic Disease Desk Officer rota to respond to vesicular disease report (VDR) cases (24/7 availability, shared on a rota basis).
• Coordinate international testing activities and timely reporting of outputs to stakeholders including FAO, WOAH, and EuFMD; contribute to Quarterly and Annual Reports for WRLFMD and VDRL.
• Contribute to the management of the FMD Reference Laboratory Network.

Research Strategy and Funding

• Manage the Defra-funded research portfolio, ensuring alignment with the Institute Strategic Programme (ISP) and other relevant research initiatives.
• Proactively identify and lead the development of new funding opportunities by fostering collaborations with internal and external partners.
• Drive preparation and submission of research proposals that build on the strengths and international role of the VDRL.

Scientific Output and Collaboration

• Lead and contribute to high-quality scientific publications derived from group activities, international partnerships, and funded projects.
• Support integration of the VDRL with core Institute science programmes and facilitate joint initiatives with the non-vesicular disease Reference Laboratory (NVRL).
• Represent the group in strategic forums as required and actively participate in national and international scientific networks.

Specific requirements

Essential

• PhD (or equivalent) in veterinary virology, molecular diagnostics, epidemiology or a related field.
• Proven experience in laboratory management or team leadership in a relevant research or diagnostic environment.
• Strong track record of scientific publication and grant acquisition.
• In-depth understanding of exotic and transboundary animal diseases, particularly FMD.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and organisational skills.
• Ability to participate in a 24/7 outbreak response Rota (not subject to on-call payment).

Desirable

• Experience in working within national or international reference laboratory systems (e.g., WOAH, FAO).
• Knowledge of QA systems in accredited diagnostic laboratories (e.g., ISO/IEC 17025).
• Experience in contingency planning or involvement in disease outbreak responses.
• Collaborative experience across multidisciplinary teams and/or international networks.
• A veterinary degree

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

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.