Postdoctoral Research Scientist

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.

Emerging arthropod‑borne pathogens are of growing concern due to the impact of disease outbreaks on animal health, trade and future economic growth of the United Kingdom (UK). This role sits within a larger Defra‑funded project that examines the role of wildlife in arthropod‑borne virus transmission in the UK. The main project is split into three work packages; using simulation and spatial modelling to investigate the role of relevant wildlife as a reservoir for arthropod‑borne diseases; investigating the interactions between wildlife and vector populations; and developing diagnostic testing algorithms to detect virus, vector and host species from pooled arthropod sampling using mass sequencing technologies.

In this role, the postdoctoral research scientist will be responsible for delivering this work package. They will be determining the interaction between Culicoides biting midges and deer populations in the UK, in light of the recent bluetongue virus (BTV) outbreak and growing concerns about the spread of epizootic haemorrhagic disease virus (EHDV) in northern Europe. The post is based within the Vector Ecology group at The Pirbright Institute, reporting to the group leader and will work alongside project partners at APHA.

Main duties and responsibilities

• Responsible for determination of Culicoides interacting with deer populations, which will include:

• Interrogating deer density data to select and recruit six appropriate field sites for entomological collections.
• Running and coordinating collections of Culicoides from May‑September over two consecutive years using UV light suction traps.
• Identifying collected specimens by species, sex and age using established morphological and molecular taxonomic techniques (training will be provided).
• Conducting bloodmeal analysis using standard PCR and sequencing to determine host species.

• Working with veterinary practitioners and hunting networks across the UK to collect serum samples from deer for BTV testing.
• Collect associated metadata on deer species, sex, approximate age and sample location for each sample.
• Support ELISA testing for the presence of BTV antibodies.
• For any positive results, serum neutralisation tests will be conducted to identify the BTV serotype.

• Providing Culicoides specimens from the field as required by project partners for pathogen testing.
• Liaising with the wildlife modelling team to share data collected on Culicoides feeding on deer.

• Support colleagues within the Vector Ecology group at Pirbright with their field and laboratory work as required.
• Report to the group leader, providing regular updates at group meetings and presenting at conferences and to funders.
• Provide cover for insect colony maintenance as needed (full training provided).

Specific requirements

Essential

• A PhD or equivalent in entomology or vector‑borne disease research
• Experience of working independently in a field setting
• Evidence of coordinating and running entomological surveillance
• Experience of morphological and molecular identification of entomological samples
• Experience working in a laboratory environment and running PCR tests
• A full clean UK driving licence

Desirable

• Experience of running ELISA and PCR tests
• Experience of working in a rural setting with livestock
• Evidence of excellent oral and written communication skills, including the ability to communicate effectively with stakeholders, funding bodies, government agencies
• Excellent organisational skills and experience of writing reports and publications
• Experience of working in a high containment, high consequence environment

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 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