APPLICATION CLOSING DATE: 26/02/2025

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
The Pirbright Institute is seeking a passionate and driven Research Scientist to join our Avian Influenza and Newcastle Disease Group, led by Professor Munir Iqbal. This BBSRC and DEFRA-funded position is available until 31st March 2026 and offers a unique opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research on avian influenza.
In this role, you will play a key part in unravelling the evolutionary mechanisms that enable high pathogenicity H5Nx avian influenza viruses to infect and persist in birds. Your research will focus on identifying molecular markers that influence virus antigenicity, virulence, and adaptation in both avian and mammalian species.
If you’re passionate about virology and eager to make a real impact in global disease control, we encourage you to apply!

Main duties and responsibilities:

• Conduct and manage research experiments to achieve key project objectives and milestones within the specified timelines, ensuring high scientific standards and reproducibility.
• Design, set up, optimize, and execute experimental protocols in consultation with the principal investigator and research team, adapting methodologies as needed to address research challenges.
• Perform in-depth data analysis and interpretation using appropriate statistical and computational tools, drawing meaningful conclusions to advance the understanding of avian influenza virus evolution and adaptation.
• Prepare and disseminate research findings by drafting manuscripts for peer-reviewed publications and developing presentations for national and international scientific conferences.
• Engage actively in the research community by participating in group discussions, presenting data at internal meetings, and contributing to the collaborative scientific environment within the institute.
• Foster strong collaborations with fellow research group members and external partners, providing support, sharing expertise, and assisting with joint research efforts when required.
• Ensure meticulous record-keeping by maintaining comprehensive, accurate, and well-organized documentation of all research activities, data analyses, and experimental protocols.

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

• MSc/MPhil in Virology
• Fundamental knowledge in virology: Influenza and related viruses infecting poultry
• Experience in the safe handling of low and high pathogenicity avian influenza viruses
• Demonstrable experience in molecular biology, molecular virology, immunology, and cell culture techniques

Desirable

• Experience in experimental work with animals involving viruses.
• Evidence of working both independently and collaboratively within multi-disciplinary research teams.
• Evidence of published work in the project related research field.
• Demonstrated organizational, time management, and communication skills.

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.
Job Types: Full-time, Fixed term contract
Pay: £32,500.00-£33,500.00 per year
Work Location: In person
Application deadline: 26/02/202

• Conduct and manage research experiments to achieve key project objectives and milestones within the specified timelines, ensuring high scientific standards and reproducibility.
• Design, set up, optimize, and execute experimental protocols in consultation with the principal investigator and research team, adapting methodologies as needed to address research challenges.
• Perform in-depth data analysis and interpretation using appropriate statistical and computational tools, drawing meaningful conclusions to advance the understanding of avian influenza virus evolution and adaptation.
• Prepare and disseminate research findings by drafting manuscripts for peer-reviewed publications and developing presentations for national and international scientific conferences.
• Engage actively in the research community by participating in group discussions, presenting data at internal meetings, and contributing to the collaborative scientific environment within the institute.
• Foster strong collaborations with fellow research group members and external partners, providing support, sharing expertise, and assisting with joint research efforts when required.
• Ensure meticulous record-keeping by maintaining comprehensive, accurate, and well-organized documentation of all research activities, data analyses, and experimental protocols.