Research Scientist

Title: 
Research Scientist

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

The African swine fever vaccinology group focuses on understanding the mechanisms underpinning virus virulence and protective immunity, with a long-term aim of developing effective controls measures for this devastating disease of domestic and wild pigs. We now have an exciting opportunity in collaboration with colleagues at the Roslin Institute to identify host factors necessary to support virus replication in porcine macrophages. The successful applicant will use flow cytometry assays designed to identify and characterise host restriction factors required for replication as well as those capable of restricting virus replication.

Main duties and responsibilities:

Responsible for delivery of scientific objectives of the research project, which will include

  • Culturing and infecting porcine macrophages with African swine fever virus
  • Identify host factors required for virus replication using a CRISPR/Cas9 screen
  • Identify host factors capable of restricting virus replication
  • Developing assays to characterise the mechanisms of action of identified host factors
  • Liasing with collaborators at Roslin

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.

Essential/Desirable requirements

Essential

  • A PhD or equivalent experience in a relevant branch of Biosciences
  • Experience of working in a laboratory environment
  • Experience of working with mammalian cell cultures
  • Theoretical knowledge or practical experience of virology
  • Capable of precise and careful work
  • Computer literate (MS Office)
  • Flexible and adaptive approach to work

Desirable

  • Experience of working in containment, particularly with viruses (CL2 or above)
  • Background knowledge of African swine fever virus
  • Experience of molecular techniques (qPCR)

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.

Reference: 
23P-150
Published: 
Wed, 27/03/2024
Applications end: 
Wed, 10/04/2024
Contract length: 
FTC until 14/07/2025
Salary: 
£37,000 - £38,000

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