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- Tasks: Conduct diagnostic tests and support research initiatives in a dynamic lab environment.
- Company: The Pirbright Institute, a leader in viral disease research and animal health.
- Benefits: Generous pension scheme, 25 days annual leave, gym membership, and employee discounts.
- Why this job: Join a vibrant team making a real impact on global animal health and disease control.
- Qualifications: BSc in biological sciences and at least 1 year of lab experience required.
- Other info: Work with advanced techniques in high-containment facilities and enjoy excellent career growth.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
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.
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 work within the non-vesicular reference laboratories (NVRL) at the Pirbright Institute within a large multi-disciplinary team. The NVRL comprises six National and WOAH/FAO reference laboratories and provides diagnostic and confirmatory testing for both national (Defra) and international competent authorities, and leads the UK’s outbreak response to exotic, notifiable non-vesicular animal diseases. The post holder will work alongside senior scientists to generate high-quality scientific data that supports the objectives of the NVRL.
Main duties and responsibilities:- Support the NVRL in maintaining a comprehensive range of diagnostic tests under ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation, while driving continuous improvements to ensure the use of advanced techniques and methods.
- Serological and molecular testing of samples.
- Logging and archiving of samples for long term storage.
- Supporting the development and validation of new methods.
- Characterisation of reference materials.
- Delivering high-quality scientific data to support research initiatives.
- Helping to prepare new, and maintain existing SOPs.
- Ensuring work is well documented through the upkeep of accurate laboratory records.
- Participation in on-call rotas.
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.
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. The post-holder will be working in our high-containment facilities with SAPO-3 and SAPO-4 viruses (African swine fever virus, bluetongue virus, African horse sickness virus, peste des petits ruminants virus and capripox viruses) and must comply with all biosafety procedures.
Specific requirements:- BSc in biological sciences or related discipline.
- Experience in (minimum 1 year) basic lab practices; serology, molecular biology techniques.
- Evidence of reliability under pressure.
- Capable of careful, precise work.
- Good skills in oral communication.
- Proven ability to effectively work in a team.
- Willingness to be on call out of hours.
- Experience in real-time PCR as a diagnostic tool.
- Experience in working to ISO/IEC 17025 standards or equivalent.
- Experience in working in high-throughput testing laboratory.
- Evidence of good record keeping.
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).
Laboratory analyst employer: Pirbright
Contact Detail:
Pirbright Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Laboratory analyst
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at The Pirbright Institute on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give us insider info and might just get your foot in the door.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your lab techniques and the latest in viral research. We want to see your passion for the field, so be ready to discuss how you can contribute to their mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your teamwork skills! The role is all about collaboration, so think of examples where you've worked well in a team. We love to hear about how you’ve contributed to group success.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our vibrant community at The Pirbright Institute.
We think you need these skills to ace Laboratory analyst
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Laboratory Analyst role. Highlight relevant experience, especially in serology and molecular biology techniques, and don’t forget to mention any ISO/IEC 17025 standards you’ve worked with.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should tell us why you’re passionate about viral disease research and how your skills align with our mission at The Pirbright Institute. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm shine through!
Showcase Your Team Spirit: We value collaboration, so make sure to include examples of how you’ve effectively worked in a team. Whether it’s during lab work or project collaborations, we want to see your teamwork skills in action.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to navigate!
How to prepare for a job interview at Pirbright
✨Know Your Science
Brush up on your knowledge of serology and molecular biology techniques, as well as the specific viruses mentioned in the job description. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you’re not just familiar with the basics but also understand the advanced concepts relevant to the role.
✨Demonstrate Team Spirit
Since the role involves working within a multi-disciplinary team, be prepared to share examples of how you've successfully collaborated with others in past experiences. Highlighting your ability to work under pressure while maintaining good communication will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Showcase Your Attention to Detail
The job requires careful and precise work, so be ready to discuss how you ensure accuracy in your lab practices. Bring up any experience you have with maintaining records or adhering to ISO/IEC 17025 standards, as this will demonstrate your commitment to quality and compliance.
✨Prepare for On-Call Scenarios
Since the position includes being on-call, think about how you would handle unexpected situations or emergencies in the lab. Sharing a relevant story where you successfully managed a high-pressure situation can illustrate your reliability and readiness for the demands of the role.