Laboratory Analyst

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

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/FAO 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 the diagnostic capabilities and resilience of the NVRL. The post holder will be expected to undertake the day-to-day testing of diagnostic samples received in the laboratory, and will support the maintenance of our accreditation standards.

Main duties and responsibility 

Responsible for diagnostic testing within the NVRL, which will include:

• Sample receipt and processing
• Data entry using the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS)
• Serological and molecular testing of submissions to the NVRL
• Maintaining detailed and complete records
• Assist in the day-to-day running of the laboratory (such as waste management, reagent and instrument preparation)

Supporting the work of the NVRL and maintenance of ISO/IEC17025 accreditation, which will include:

• Support various ongoing projects in delivery of milestones
• Correctly identifying and addressing quality events
• Storage of samples and archiving

This job description is only an outline of the tasks, responsibilities and outcomes required of the role. The jobholder will carry out any other duties as may be reasonably required by his/her line manager. The job description and personal specification may be reviewed on an ongoing basis in accordance with the changing needs of The Pirbright Institute.

All employees shall actively participate in the Institute-wide quality assurance system in conjunction with the Institute’s Quality Manager. Employees are also expected to safeguard their own health and safety and security by following policies and all employees are responsible for the Health and Safety and security of staff under their management. The post-holder will be working in our high-containment facilities with SAPO-3 and SAPO-4 viruses (African swine fever virus, bluetongue virus, African horse sickness virus, peste des petits ruminants virus and capripox viruses) and must comply with all biosafety procedures.

Specific requirements

Essential

• BSc in biological sciences or related discipline 
• Experience in (minimum 1 year) basic lab practices; serology, molecular biology techniques 
• Evidence of reliability under pressure 
• Capable of careful, precise work 
• Good skills in oral communication 
• Proven ability to effectively work in a team 
• Willingness to be on call out of hours

Desirable

• Experience in real-time PCR as a diagnostic tool 
• Experience in working to ISO/IEC 17025 standards or equivalent 
• Experience in working in high-throughput testing laboratory 
• Evidence of good record keeping 

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