Postdoctoral Scientist- Immunology & Virology

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.

The post-holder will be a pivotal member of a research consortium funded by an award from the UK Research and Innovation’s Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council and Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs. mRNA is a versatile vaccine platform to deliver antigens and elicit potent immune responses. Whilst mRNA vaccines will undoubtedly play a prominent role as a human vaccine modality in the future, this remains to be determined for livestock species, with the ability to produce RNA vaccines at an appropriate cost presenting a significant challenge. Therefore, this project aims to optimise an mRNA vaccine platform for livestock, demonstrating its potential across both livestock species and pathogen types.

The postholder will be responsible for executing experimental activities relating to the design and in vitro characterisation of broadly reactive antigens, the evaluation of the immunogenicity of mRNA formulated in different lipid nanoparticles (LNP) using ex vivo porcine and bovine lymphoid organ culture models, and the evaluation of the immunogenicity and efficacy of LNP formulated mRNA in cattle, pigs and chickens. Prof Simon Graham leads the consortium and will line manage the post holder.

Responsibilities include:

• Designing vaccine candidate antigens and evaluating them using LNP formulated mRNA vectors.
• Using in silico approaches to design broadly reactive antigens for influenza A virus (IAV), porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) and bluetongue virus (BTV) and evaluating their antigenicity as recombinant proteins.
• Developing ex vivo porcine and bovine lymphoid organ culture models and applying cultures from naïve and immune animals to evaluate the immunogenicity of mRNA delivered in different LNP formulations.
• Evaluating and comparing the immunogenicity of LNP‑mRNA vaccine candidates across target species.
• Demonstrating the efficacy of lead LNP‑mRNA vaccine candidates in cattle (BTV), pigs (IAV and PRRSV) and chickens (IAV).

Working as part of a research consortium includes:

• Producing and providing purified recombinant antigens, vaccines and viruses, to support studies at partner institutions.
• Communicating progress and data at monthly and annual consortium meetings and contributing to funder reports.
• Disseminating results through writing high quality peer‑reviewed manuscripts and presenting at scientific meetings.
• Developing and maintaining documentation associated with the health, safety, and biosecurity of the research to preserve a safe working environment.
• Assisting with lab management (ordering, looking after equipment, sample inventories).
• Training and supervision of a Research Assistant, and as appropriate, other group members, students and visitors.

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.

Specific requirements:

• A PhD or equivalent in a relevant branch of biosciences.
• An excellent record of research productivity, relative to experience.
• Experience in immunology including analysis of T cells e.g., flow cytometry, and antibody responses e.g. ELISAs and virus neutralisation assays.
• Experience of recombinant protein expression and purification.
• Evidence of excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Experience of vaccine R&D, in an industry or academic setting.
• Experience of working with large animals.
• Experience of working with viruses.
• Experience of working in a high biocontainment environment.
• Experience of working in research consortia.

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 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.

This job description is intended to convey information essential to understanding the scope of the position and is not an exhaustive list of skills, efforts, duties, responsibilities, or working conditions associated with it. Responsibilities may change to carry out other duties as may be reasonably required by the line manager and may be reviewed on an ongoing basis in accordance with the changing need of The Pirbright Institute. We acknowledge, understand, and embrace diversity, equality and inclusion.