Technical Manager

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 take up a lead role (Technical manager) within the non-vesicular reference laboratories (NVRL) at the Pirbright Institute. The NVRL comprises six National and WOAH/FAO reference laboratories and provides diagnostic and confirmatory testing for both national (Defra) and international competent authorities. The post-holder will be working in our high-containment facilities and must comply with all biosafety procedures. The NVRL has an extensive test portfolio accredited to ISO/IEC 17025 (a UKAS accredited testing Laboratory: number 4025). The post-holder will be expected to work with the Institutes Quality management team and senior NVRL staff to maintain ISO/IEC 17025 and implement improvements and/or validate new tests for extension to scope of accreditation.

The postholder will be responsible for management of a team of analysts and will support team development in delivering high quality experimental data and test results across numerous projects/contracts. The NVRL are responsible for delivering the UK surveillance contract for exotic animal viral diseases and as such the technical manager is responsible for ensuring the quality of test results and their reporting to stakeholders including government departments e.g. Defra, APHA and private customers. The post-holder will be expected to be able to analyse, interpret and present test data in a clear and concise manner to a wide audience.

The post-holder will work with the Head of the NVRL to ensure UK preparedness for outbreaks of exotic animal viral diseases including Bluetongue and African swine fever.

This is an opportunity for an enthusiastic individual to join a diverse, multidisciplinary team in an internationally respected group.

Main duties and responsibility 

• Provide effective technical management of the NVRL schedule of accreditation (fixed and flexible) and supporting activities

Overseeing and ensuring the quality and ongoing fitness of purpose of all technical procedures, including testing, calibration and monitoring of equipment, staff competence and the assurance of test results. This includes oversight of staff training requirements to cover all aspects of accredited testing including demonstration of ongoing competence.

• Provide effective leadership to the technical team (Defra surveillance contract) to deliver reliable, sustainable and robust testing capacities to stakeholders (internal and external).

Delivery of contractual requirements.

• Strategically enhance the NVRLs ability to respond to high consequence animal viral diseases.

Development and optimisation of  improvements to diagnostic test pipelines, working with the quality team to drive implementation. This includes preparation of associated documentation to support accreditation.

• Responsibility for delivering quality assurance of NVRL activities

Implementing and maintaining quality assurance processes (e.g. PT participation, IQC), including internal audits, non conforming work and management reviews. Preparation of necessary reports and KPIs.

• Responsibility for ensuring the adequacy of quality control of test results

Participation in proficiency testing schemes, monitoring IQC and trend analysis, controlling uncertainty of measurement and responding to quality events.

• Contribute to the continued success of the NVRL.

Effective time management and prioritisation of tasks to support the management structure in the NVRL, contribution to public engagement and outreach activities including training. Preparation of technical reports and publications for internal and external stakeholders, attendance at suitable meetings and conferences.

• Contribute to a positive research culture, demonstration of Pirbright’s core values and behaviours                                                           

 Specific requirements

Essential

• A PhD or equivalent in a relevant branch of biosciences. An experienced scientist with equivalent practical expertise might be considered without a PhD.
• Significant experience of working to ISO/IEC17025 or equivalent
• Experience of the development and validation of diagnostic tests
• Demonstrated experience of managing a technical team and supporting personal development
• Significant relevant laboratory experience in molecular virology. This includes technical competency in current molecular techniques
• Evidence of excellent oral and written communication skills, including the ability to communicate scientific results effectively.
• Evidenced, proven ability to think critically and problem-solve independently.

Desirable

• Experience of managing an ISO/IEC 17025 fixed and/or flexible scope
• Proficient in other laboratory techniques relevant to viral diagnostics, for example: viral infection studies, virus purification and other molecular tools
• Relevant publications in peer reviewed journals
• Auditing experience

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