Research Technician

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

Tick vaccines offer a sustainable, environmentally-friendly alternative that could provide long-lasting protection without the drawbacks of chemical control. To date, only a single vaccine has been licensed for commercial use, and it is formulated based on the Bm86 antigen. Bm86 is a midgut membrane glycoprotein found in tick intestines that plays a crucial role in blood digestion. Bm86 based vaccines provide protection by eliciting antibodies that disrupt normal tick physiology during blood feeding. Yet efficacy against R. microplus varies highly depending on the tick strain and ranges from 0-99%. Variability in Rhipicephalus microplus Bm86 sequence and structure, along with inconsistent efficacy of recombinant proteins, has limited its widespread use. Bm86 contains repeated cysteine-rich domains, is predicted to be heavily glycosylated, and has proven difficult to crystallise, likely due to its complex folding and post-translational modifications. Understanding how structural features influence epitope accessibility and antibody binding is essential to redesign a more efficacious Bm86 antigen.

This project will define, for the first time, the structural correlates of antibody recognition in Bm86 and identify constraints posed by its glycosylation and folding. These insights will directly support the development of a next-generation Bm86-based vaccine that is more broadly protective across tick strains and less susceptible to structural instability or expression artefacts.
This project is funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation as part of the Antibody Hub 2.0.

Main duties and responsibility 

The laboratory technician will be responsible for carrying out a range of experimental procedures for this project and will work closely with the Senior Postdoctoral Scientist leading the research.

Designing, Performing, and Analysing Experiments:

• Collaborate with the research team to design experiments aimed at generating, isolating, and manipulating Bm86-specific antibodies.
• Assist in the animal experiment by isolating peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) for all the timepoints of interest and by performing ELISPOT assays to assess B cell reactivity against Bm86.
• Perform ELISA assays to test serum and monoclonal antibody reactivity against Bm86.
• Perform RNA extraction, cDNA synthesis and PCR to generate whole antibody repertoires for all the animal study timepoints. 
• Execute laboratory experiments following established protocols and procedures.
• Analyze experimental data using appropriate statistical and analytical tools to draw meaningful conclusions.

Laboratory Management Duties:

• Ensure smooth operation of the laboratory by maintaining equipment, ordering necessary supplies, and managing inventory.
• Adhere to laboratory safety protocols and maintain a clean and organized work environment.
• Assist in the training of new laboratory personnel as needed.
• Coordinate the shipment of samples to external collaborators or testing facilities as necessary.
• Maintain electronic and physical records in compliance with laboratory protocols and regulations.

Presentation at Laboratory Meetings:

• Prepare and deliver presentations on experimental findings and progress at regular lab meetings.
• Engage in discussions with team members to troubleshoot experimental challenges and brainstorm solutions.

Assistance with Other Laboratory Tasks:

• Provide support to other members of the research team as required, including assisting with their experiments and projects.
• Collaborate on interdisciplinary projects within the lab to leverage expertise and resources.
                                                                                               

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.

Specific requirements

Essential

• A MSc or equivalent in a relevant area of Biosciences.
• Demonstrated skills in designing assays, including the incorporation of appropriate controls to ensure experimental rigor.
• Proficiency in molecular biology techniques including RNA extraction, cDNA synthesis, PCR, cloning, ELISA, and protein purification.
• Experience in next-generation sequencing, including library preparation and quality control procedures.
• Ability to analyse and compile data from multiple experiments.

Desirable

• Ability to analyze and synthesize data from diverse experiments including flow cytometry, Biolayer interferometry, ELISpots, sequencing, and 10X genomics.
• Knowledge of spectral flow would be advantageous.

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