Antibody production specialist

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 Pirbright Immunological Toolbox is a UKRI‑BBSRC funded Science Technology Platform dedicated to advancing livestock immunology research through the production of immune reagents, primarily antibodies. The Antibody Production Specialist is a key role within the Immunological Toolbox at The Pirbright Institute, responsible for the production of monoclonal antibodies. This is a laboratory‑based position supporting the production and purification of recombinant and hybridoma‑derived antibodies to support Institute’s strategic research.

Main duties and responsibility

Responsible for the laboratory activities of the immunological toolbox, which will include: 60%

• Running laboratory methods for the sequencing of hybridomas and analysis of the data
• Running laboratory methods for cloning and expression of antibody genes
• Production and supply of recombinant antibodies in accordance with Institute methods
• Optimisation and development of antibody production methods
• Data analyses and recording results and presentation of data/reports
• Management of frozen stocks of antibodies, and plasmid DNA. Supporting the supply of those items and/or antibody sequences to internal and external scientists

Responsible for the production of mAbs using hybridomas, which will include: 30%

• Managing production and purification of antibodies from hybridomas.
• Training of internal and external research scientists in antibody production
• Management of frozen stocks of hybridomas and routine testing of cell banks, e.g. purity, identity etc

Responsible for laboratory Health, Safety, Biosafety and Quality compliance, which will include: 10%

• Responsible for the daily housekeeping of the laboratory
• Responsible for ensuring that work in the laboratory is conducted safely and in accordance with local health and safety policies
• Responsible for ensuring that results generated by self are produced in compliance with procedures and recorded according to the institute’s SOP for the control, maintenance, and archiving records
• Conformance with Health, Safety and Biosafety regulations

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 specifications 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.

Specific requirements

Laboratory focused, reliability under pressure, customer focused, diplomatic, enthusiastic, entrepreneurial, energetic, intellectually engaged, results‑oriented, time management skills, decision‑making and problem‑solving skills.

• Degree in biosciences or related discipline
• Experience laboratory techniques for the production and of mAbs
• Experience with the sequencing and cloning techniques
• Evidence of excellent oral and written communication skills, including the ability to communicate effectively with peer‑review groups, & government agencies
• Experience writing SOPs, Methods, and reports
• Aseptic cell culture experience
• Computer literate, with the ability to familiarise with database systems
• PhD/MSc or equivalent in a relevant branch of biosciences
• Experience optimizing antibody production, engineering and/or purification methods
• Experience supervising less experienced team members
• Networking skills with the ability to build effective collaborative relationships
• Experience of quality management frameworks
• Experience of budget management

What we offer

• Generous Group Personal Pension Scheme and life cover (subject to age and earnings)
• 25 days annual leave plus public and privilege days, increasing up to 31 days with long service.
• Enhanced Maternity package.
• Buy and sell annual leave
• Option to carry over up to two weeks annual leave
• Pirbright gym with 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

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.