Postdoctoral Research Scientist

Postdoctoral Influenza Virologist – (24P-63)

The Pirbright Institute

Salary: £38,500 - £40,000 per annum

Fixed-Term Contract – 31/03/2026

Onsite: Woking, GU24

Application Closing Date: 22/11/2024

Please send your CV alongside a Cover Letter to jobs@pirbright.ac.uk

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.

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-doctoral Influenza Virologist position is part of the “Flu: Trail Map-One Health” project, funded by the MRC until 31st March 2026. The selected researcher will be a key member of the Avian Influenza and Newcastle Disease group, led by Professor Munir Iqbal. Their primary responsibility will be to investigate how avian influenza viruses evolve to enhance fitness in birds and increase the risk to humans. The research will focus on identifying molecular markers that modulate virulence, vaccine efficacy, and cross-species transmission.

Main duties and responsibilities:

The key responsibilities include (100%):

• To undertake experiments to achieve the specific objectives and milestones within the indicated timelines of the research project.
• Tasks include designing, setting up, running, and optimizing experiments in consultation and collaboration with the principal investigator and other members of the research group.
• To analyse and critically interpret data using methodologies appropriate to the research objectives.
• To prepare material for publication in academic journals and for presentation at scientific conferences, in consultation with the principal investigator and other colleagues.
• To actively participate in and contribute to the institute and research group culture and activities. This includes presenting data at group research update meetings, seminars, and performing shared laboratory duties when required.
• To be collegiate and collaborate with fellow research group members and partnering institutions. Additionally, to offer support and constructive assistance to other group members when necessary.
• To maintain comprehensive and accurate records of all research conducted and analysed during tenure in this research group.

This job description is only an outline of the tasks, responsibilities, and outcomes required of the role. The job holder 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.

Personal Specification

Ability to work in a team, time management, reliability under pressure, decision-making/problem-solving skills, collaborative, diplomatic, results-driven, and enthusiastic.

Essential/Desirable requirements

Essential

• PhD in a relevant branch of biosciences, (Virology/Influenza virology).
• Fundamental knowledge in molecular virology of influenza and related viruses.
• Working experience in handling high pathogenicity avian influenza viruses in high-containment laboratory and animal facility.
• Experience in generating influenza viruses using reverse genetic approaches.
• Scientific publications in a relevant field (appropriate to experience).

Desirable

• Experience in carrying out animal experimental work involving poultry as a Personal License holder, under the Home Office approved Project License guidelines.
• Experience in biological containment practices and working under high containment conditions.
• Evidence of experience and vision to carry out scientific research in collaboration and multi-disciplinary teams.

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 employee restaurant.
• Childcare allowance.
• Free onsite parking.
• Electric car charging facilities.

Due to the high volume of applications, we receive, if you have not heard from us within one month from closing date of the vacancy, then please contact us on jobs@pirbright.ac.uk for an update.