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- Tasks: Conduct cutting-edge research on picornaviruses and contribute to innovative disease control measures.
- Company: The Pirbright Institute, a leader in viral disease research with a vibrant community.
- Benefits: Generous pension scheme, 25 days leave, gym membership, and employee discounts.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team making a real impact on global health through scientific discovery.
- Qualifications: PhD in biosciences, experience in virology, and strong communication skills.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with opportunities for collaboration and career growth.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ 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. 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 Postdoctoral Scientist will work in the Picornavirus Molecular Biology Group, an enthusiastic and friendly team of postdoc and student researchers. We carry out research to understand how picornaviruses enter, replicate, assemble and evolve and apply this understanding to help control picornaviruses such as foot-and-mouth disease (FMDV). The position will include research in three ongoing areas of activity in the group:
- Restriction factors that determine FMDV host range;
- RNA packaging signals in FMDV;
- Mechanisms of viral entry, replication and evolution.
The successful applicant will report to the Group Leader and collaborate effectively with other scientists in and beyond the group.
Main duties and responsibility
- Working towards the objectives of the project(s)
- Carrying out laboratory based research 70%
- Developing expertise and project ownership
- Interacting with project collaborators
- Communication of research findings 20%
- Writing papers and submission of work for publication
- Preparation and delivery of presentations at internal and external meetings
- Contribution to additional projects as required
- Seeking out opportunities for funding/supervising students
- Contributing to training of new staff and students as required
Specific requirements
- A PhD or equivalent in a relevant branch of biosciences
- Experience of cell culture/virology techniques, and/or working in high containment (ideally SAPO4)
- Evidence of excellent oral and written communication skills, including the ability to communicate effectively at scientific meetings, with collaborators and in writing papers
- Evidence of working independently and as part of a team with the ability to build effective collaborative relationships
- Knowledge of picornavirus molecular virology
- Knowledge of cellular innate immunity
- Experience of molecular biology / RNA biology techniques
- Experience of microscopy, imaging plate readers or flow cytometry
- Experience of virus evolution, viral sequencing & bioinformatics
- Experience of supervising students and junior staff
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 Lifestyle Hub (employee discount site)
Postdoctoral Scientist employer: Pirbright
Contact Detail:
Pirbright Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Postdoctoral Scientist
✨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 you insider info and maybe even a referral, which can really boost your chances.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by diving deep into their research areas. Familiarise yourself with their work on picornaviruses and think about how your skills can contribute. Show them you’re not just another candidate, but someone who’s genuinely interested in their mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! Since you'll need to present findings and collaborate with others, being able to articulate your thoughts clearly is key. Try explaining your research to a friend or family member who isn’t in the field.
✨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 Postdoctoral Scientist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Postdoctoral Scientist role. Highlight your relevant experience in virology and molecular biology, and show us how your skills align with our research goals at The Pirbright Institute.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since communication is key in our collaborative environment, emphasise your written and oral communication abilities. Share examples of papers you've written or presentations you've delivered to demonstrate your expertise.
Highlight Your Research Experience: We want to see your hands-on experience in laboratory settings, especially with cell culture and virology techniques. Be specific about your past projects and how they relate to the work we do at Pirbright.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity in our vibrant community.
How to prepare for a job interview at Pirbright
✨Know Your Research Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the specifics of your research, especially regarding picornaviruses and their molecular biology. Be prepared to discuss your previous work and how it relates to the ongoing projects at The Pirbright Institute.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since communication is key in this role, practice articulating your research findings clearly and concisely. Prepare to explain complex concepts in a way that’s accessible to both scientific and non-scientific audiences.
✨Demonstrate Team Spirit
Highlight your ability to collaborate effectively with others. Share examples of past teamwork experiences, especially in research settings, and how you contributed to achieving common goals.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions about specific techniques mentioned in the job description, like cell culture or virology methods. Brush up on your knowledge of these areas and be ready to discuss your hands-on experience with them.
