Laboratory Manager

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. 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.

About the role 

The Research Services department is made up of the Laboratory Management team and the Central Services Unit — who together provide essential support to scientists at the Pirbright Institute. Key services include:

• Laboratory Management: acting as a communication route between science staff and services to ensure smooth running of the science programme with minimum disruption.
• Scientific Equipment Helpdesk: as part of the laboratory management stream, this team provides consistent equipment servicing and support to maintain continuity of science operations.
• Central Services Unit: delivering media production, laundry services, autoclave operation, waste management, cleaning services, glasswash and sterilisation.

The Laboratory Management team resides within the Research Services department. The Laboratory Manager reports directly to the Head of Research services and line managers the Insectary Technician. The role works collaboratively with the Helpdesk and CSU teams.

Laboratory Managers act as a direct interface between science users and service providers, ensuring that facilities and equipment operate efficiently, safely, and with minimum disruption to the core science programme.

This role will have primary responsibility for the Containment Level 1 & 2 (CL1/CL2) laboratories and Insectary facilities, while being trained in other core areas as part of a multidisciplinary team.

Key Responsibilities

Laboratory Operations (circa 50%)

• Manage the day-to-day functioning of CL1, CL2, and insectary laboratories, acting as the focal point for operational issues.
• Organise and coordinate routine and reactive maintenance for laboratory and insectary facilities, in conjunction with the Laboratory Management team and relevant service providers.
• Liaise with engineering and support teams to maintain optimal conditions in laboratory and insect colony rooms, and aid in response to breakdowns.
• Ensure emergency freezers are available and functional; coordinate response to freezer breakdowns.
• Support installation or movement of equipment, ensuring records are maintained in collaboration with the Scientific Equipment Helpdesk.
• Coordinate use and allocation of laboratory space in line with Institute priorities.
• Chair or attend relevant committees as required.
• Oversee the servicing and maintenance of laboratory equipment within assigned facilities, working closely with the Scientific Equipment Helpdesk.
• Ensure servicing (planned and responsive) is carried out with minimal disruption to science activities.
• Liaise with Health, Safety and Biosafety advisors on matters relating to equipment use and servicing
• Provide guidance and oversight on best practice for equipment and laboratory use.
• Act as a key communication link between science users and support services.

Line Management and Team Leadership

• Provide coaching, mentoring, and support to team members to ensure high performance.
• Conduct performance and development reviews, set objectives, and support professional development.
• Coordinate staffing schedules as required to ensure continuous laboratory operations.
• Support recruitment, induction, and training of new employees.
• Foster a positive, collaborative, and safety-focused working environment.

Safety & Compliance (circa 10%)

• Coordinate laboratory risk assessments, Codes of Practice, and periodic reporting for assigned facilities.
• Maintain working knowledge of health, safety, biosafety, and quality assurance standards, ensuring compliance across all laboratories managed.
• Participate in Biosafety and Health & Safety audits.

Training & User Support (5%)

• Carry out laboratory inductions, tours, and competency assessments for new and existing staff.

Insectary & Arthropod Supply (15%)

• Oversee the arthropod supply programme as part of national capability requirements.
• Ensure requests for insects are fulfilled in line with Institute priorities.
• Provide or organise cover for maintenance of insect colonies to ensure continuous supply.
• Line manage insectary technician(s).
• Manage budget, including income from commercial orders and expenses for consumables.

Role Requirements 

Essential

• Degree or equivalent experience in biosciences or a related discipline.
• Laboratory management experience, including coordination of multiple laboratory areas demonstrating service orientation and customer focus.
• Practical experience in laboratory techniques.
• Proven line management experience, including staff supervision and performance management, showing leadership, diplomacy, and ability to motivate teams.
• Experience in assessing biological hazards and implementing appropriate risk mitigation measures, demonstrating attention to detail.
• Evidence of excellent oral and written communication skills, with the ability to communicate effectively at all levels, demonstrating strong interpersonal, problem-solving and decision-making skills.
• Ability to work independently, collaboratively and as part of a team whilst under deadlines, showing flexibility, reliability, and resilience.
• Willingness to work within containment facilities.
• Computer literacy and ability to work with laboratory and asset management systems and software.

Desirable

• Experience writing SOPs, methods, risk assessments, and reports.
• Experience working within a quality management framework, showing commitment to compliance and continuous improvement.
• Experience using laboratory or asset management database systems.
• Experience rearing arthropods for scientific study (training will be provided).
• Experience working in contained facilities above CL2 (eg SAPO4/CL3).

What Pirbright offers you 

• A supportive and collaborative working environment with a strong sense of community. 

• Campus in a semi-rural location with free on-site parking and good transport links. 

• Generous Group Personal Pension Scheme and life assurance (subject to age and earnings). 

• 25 days annual leave plus public and privilege days, increasing up to 31 days with service. 

• Enhanced Maternity package. 

• Option to buy and sell annual leave. 

• Option to carry over up to two weeks' annual leave. 

• Pirbright Lifestyle Hub (employee discount site). 

• Cycle to work scheme. 

• Childcare allowance. 

• Access to chargeable electric car charging facilities.
• Employee Assistance Programme 

• Access to on-site facilities including subsidised staff restaurant
• Options to join our on-site gym, social club and allotments club.