Postdoctoral Research Associate

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. 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

We are seeking a highly motivated and innovative scientist to join the Mucosal Immunology Group at contributing to a transformative research programme supported by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF) and BBSRC Institute Strategic Programme Grants.

This post offers a unique opportunity to be part of a pioneering One Health research initiative focused on interrupting the transmission of respiratory viruses such as influenza and coronaviruses, which remain major public health challenges despite the availability of current vaccines and antivirals. The work will utilise the pig as a large, natural host animal model due to its close physiological, anatomical, immunological, and genetic similarities to humans. Pigs not only serve as natural hosts for influenza viruses highly similar to those in humans, but their lung structure and antibody responses also provide a highly relevant platform for translational research.

The postholder will investigate the potential of mRNA-encoded antibodies, interferons, and other innate immune stimulators administered to the respiratory tract to prevent infection and interrupt transmission. This will include evaluating their capacity to reduce viral shedding, limit lung pathology, and disease severity. A central element of the project involves comparing different delivery strategies to determine which offer the most effective expression and protection in vivo. The role will also involve the analysis of immune responses following immunisation with candidate broadly protective influenza vaccines  in collaboration with the University of Oxford.

To achieve these objectives, the postholder will apply a broad range of immunological and virological techniques, including ELISA, FACS analysis, ELISPOT micro-neutralisation assays, virus propagation and others. These methods will be integral to assessing both the immune response and therapeutic efficacy of novel interventions.

This position represents an exciting opportunity to contribute to translational, interdisciplinary research with real-world impact on vaccine and therapeutic development in both human and veterinary medicine. The successful candidate will report directly to the Head of the Mucosal Immunology Group and will maintain close communication with collaborators within the BMGF network.

Main duties and responsibility

Responsible for conducting research into transmission of and immunity to influenza viruses

• Analysis of B and T cell responses after influenza infection or immunisation
• Cloning and recombinant expression of influenza specific monoclonal antibodies
• Determination of antigen specificity and function of mAbs (neutralisation, binding, ELISA, HAI, ADCC, CDC and ADCP)
• Preparation of virus challenge material and quantification of virus load in tissues
• Assist with conducting influenza animal studies

Responsible for working as part of a research team, which will include

• Communicating progress and data, including presentations as internal and external meetings and preparing manuscripts for publication
• Helping supervise undergraduate, MSc, PhD students and staff
• Adapt existing and develop new scientific techniques and experimental protocols
• Contributing to grant proposal development and writing to support the group’s mission
• Assist with lab management (ordering, looking after equipment, sample inventories)
• Developing and maintaining documentation associated with the health, safety, and biosecurity of the research to preserve a safe working environment
• Performing a range of outreach activities                                                

Personal specification

Essential

• A PhD or equivalent in a relevant branch of biosciences
• Evidence of excellent oral and written communication skills, including the ability to communicate effectively with funding bodies, peer-review groups, government agencies
• Experience in influenza virological techniques including virus propagation and quantification, micro-neutralisation and haemagglutination inhibition assays
• Experience in immunology including flow cytometry, analysis of cellular and humoral responses, ELISPOT, ELISA
• An ability to prioritise tasks effectively while under pressure
• A willingness to work outside normal working hours

Desirable

• Experience of working in a laboratory environment (s) (i)
• Experience in biological containment practices and in working under bio-secure conditions
• Experience in working with large animals
• Basic computer skills including use of Microsoft office packages, experience in data presentation and statistical analyses
• Evidence of experience and vision to carry out scientific research in a multi-disciplinary team

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 staff restaurant
• Childcare allowance
• Free onsite parking
• Electric Car charging facilities