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 post holder will work within the non-vesicular reference laboratories (NVRL) at the Pirbright Institute within a large multi-disciplinary team. The NVRL comprises six National and WOAH reference laboratories and provides diagnostic and confirmatory testing for both national (Defra) and international competent authorities, and leads the UK’s outbreak response to exotic, notifiable non-vesicular animal diseases.
The post holder is expected to support and enhance the diagnostic capabilities and resilience of the NVRL. The post holder will be expected to take on a senior role in overseeing and delivering testing of diagnostic samples received in the laboratory. And will support the maintenance of our accreditation standards.
Main duties and responsibilities:
Responsible for diagnostic testing within the NVRL, which will include:
- Supporting and enhancing the work of the NVRL through improvements and maintenance of ISO/IEC17025 accreditation standards.
- Serological and molecular testing of submissions to the NVRL.
- Critically evaluating, developing, improving and troubleshooting of molecular and serological diagnostic assays to ISO/IEC 17025 standards.
- Training of members of staff for the use of diagnostic facilities and equipment.
- Taking a leading/supervisory role in the day-to-day running of the laboratory (such as waste management, monitoring stock levels, reagent and instrument preparation).
- Holding a coordinating role in testing response during times of high-volume surveillance testing.
Preparation and review of quality documents
- Preparation and review of SOPs, methods and related documentation
- Preparation and review of risk/COSHH assessments
- Correctly identifying and addressing quality events
Contributing to international engagement activities:
- Delivering training on NVRL techniques both within the UK and overseas as required.
- Presentation of data at national and international conferences as required.
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 MSc or equivalent experience in a relevant branch of biosciences
- Knowledge of livestock viruses
- Experience working in an ISO17025/WOAH-accredited laboratory or equivalent
- Ability to work independently
- Evidence of excellent oral and written communication skills
- Evidence of effective critical thinking
- Ability to plan, execute and deliver experimental plans with care and precision
- Reliability under pressure and ability to change priorities as necessary
- Computer literate with a good knowledge of different computer programs and experience in data presentation and statistical analyses
Desirable
- A PhD or equivalent in a relevant branch of biosciences
- Experience working in a high throughput diagnostic laboratory.
- Evidence of contributing to scientific publications
- Supervisory/training experience
- Demonstrated ability to influence.
- Evidence of international engagement
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.