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- Tasks: Join us as an Insectary Technician to maintain unique insect colonies crucial for viral research.
- Company: The Pirbright Institute is a leader in viral disease research, focusing on livestock and zoonotic viruses.
- Benefits: Enjoy 33.5 days of annual leave, a generous pension scheme, and subsidized gym membership.
- Why this job: Be part of a vibrant community dedicated to advancing science and improving global health.
- Qualifications: You need experience in insect rearing and a degree in biological science.
- Other info: Flexibility to work on Bank Holidays is required, with annual leave credited accordingly.
The predicted salary is between 27500 - 33500 £ per year.
Insectary Technician – (24P- 103)
The Pirbright Institute
Salary: £32,500-£33,500 per annum
Onsite: Woking, GU24
Application Closing Date: 19/03/2025
About The Pirbright Institute
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.
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
We are seeking an Insectary Technician to support the maintenance and supply of nationally unique and internationally significant colonies of Culicoides biting midges.
These insects are key vectors of globally important livestock and equine viruses, including bluetongue virus and African horse sickness virus. Ensuring the reliable upkeep of these colonies is essential for ongoing research into virus-vector interactions at The Pirbright Institute.
In addition, the technician will be responsible for maintaining mosquito colonies and providing insect stocks to Pirbright scientists, external collaborators, and commercial partners. This role reports to and supports the Insectary Manager.
Main duties and responsibilities:
Responsible for maintenance of unique Culicoides and mosquito colonies, which will include:
- Blood feeding adults using an artificial membrane system
- Collection of pupae and eggs
- Maintenance of larval rearing trays
Responsible for supply of Culicoides and mosquitoes to users, which will include:
- Providing adult Culicoides and mosquitoes to users
- Liaising with scientists to discuss requirements
- Shipping of insects to national and international users
Responsible for colony rooms as room officer, which will include:
- Ensuring a clean and safe working environment
- Liaising with the engineering team and Insectary Manager to ensure appropriate rearing conditions are maintained
- Adhering to strict biosafety control measures
Shared responsibility for maintenance of other insect colonies, which will include:
- Support maintenance and supply of genetically modified mosquito lines mosquitoes and large biting flies
- Blood feeding adults using an artificial membrane system
- Collection of eggs and maintenance of larval rearing trays
- Collection and screening of pupae under a microscope
Responsible for maintenance supply to collaborators, which will include:
- Discussion of needs and supply timetable with collaborators
- Maintenance of material transfer agreement (MTA) documentation and supply records
To ensure consistent insect maintenance and supply, this role will require the flexibility to work on Bank Holidays, with annual leave credited accordingly and requires a three-month notice period.
Essential/Desirable requirements
Essential
- Experience rearing insects for research
- Higher education to degree level in a biological science
- Evidence of working successfully as a part of a team
- Evidence of organizational skills and attention to detail
- Experience of working in a laboratory environment
- Evidence of excellent oral and written communication skills, including the ability to communicate effectively with others across disciplines and work areas
Desirable
- Experience rearing vector insects such as mosquitoes
- Evidence of networking skills with the ability to build effective collaborative relationships
What we offer
- Generous Group Personal Pension Scheme and life cover (subject to age and earnings)
- 33.5 days annual leave per annum (due to requirement to work bank holidays), pro rata
- 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 employee restaurant
- Childcare allowance
- Free onsite parking
- Electric car charging facilities
Due to the high volume of applications we receive, if you have not heard from us within one month from closing date of the vacancy, then please contact us on for an update.
Insectary Technician employer: The Pirbright Institute
Contact Detail:
The Pirbright Institute Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Insectary Technician
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarize yourself with the specific insect species mentioned in the job description, particularly Culicoides and mosquitoes. Understanding their biology and rearing requirements will give you an edge during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight any previous experience you have in maintaining insect colonies or working in a laboratory environment. Be ready to discuss specific techniques you've used, especially those related to blood feeding and larval rearing.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your organizational skills by preparing examples of how you've successfully managed projects or tasks in a team setting. This role requires attention to detail, so be prepared to discuss how you ensure accuracy in your work.
✨Tip Number 4
Network with professionals in the field of entomology or vector research. Building relationships can provide insights into the role and may even lead to referrals, increasing your chances of landing the job.
We think you need these skills to ace Insectary Technician
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Make sure to thoroughly read the job description for the Insectary Technician position. Understand the key responsibilities and required skills, especially those related to insect rearing and laboratory work.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasize any experience you have in rearing insects or working in a laboratory environment. Provide specific examples that demonstrate your organizational skills and attention to detail.
Tailor Your Application: Customize your application materials to reflect the values and mission of The Pirbright Institute. Show how your background aligns with their focus on viral disease research and collaboration.
Proofread Your Documents: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter. Ensure there are no spelling or grammatical errors, and that your communication skills shine through in your writing.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Pirbright Institute
✨Show Your Passion for Entomology
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for insect research and vector biology. Discuss any relevant experiences you have had with rearing insects, especially Culicoides and mosquitoes, as this will demonstrate your commitment to the field.
✨Highlight Your Teamwork Skills
Since the role requires collaboration with scientists and other team members, be prepared to share examples of how you've successfully worked in a team environment. Emphasize your ability to communicate effectively across different disciplines.
✨Demonstrate Attention to Detail
The maintenance of insect colonies requires precision and care. Be ready to discuss specific instances where your organizational skills and attention to detail made a difference in your previous work or studies.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions related to laboratory practices and biosafety measures. Brush up on your knowledge of insect rearing techniques and be ready to explain how you would maintain a clean and safe working environment.
