Research Scientist

Research Scientist – 25P-010

The Pirbright institute

Salary: £33,500-£35,000 per annum

Fixed Term Contract until 31st December 2026

Onsite: Woking, GU24

Application closing date: 19/08/2025

Please send your cv alongside a cover letter to jobs@pirbright.ac.uk

Before applying, please consider all applicants must be eligible to work in the UK

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. 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

We are seeking a highly motivated and innovative scientist to join the Mucosal Immunology Group at contributing to a transformative research programme supported by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF) and BBSRC Institute Strategic Programme Grants.

This post offers a unique opportunity to be part of a pioneering One Health research initiative focused on interrupting the transmission of respiratory viruses such as influenza and coronaviruses, which remain major public health challenges despite the availability of current vaccines and antivirals. The work will utilise the pig as a large, natural host animal model due to its close physiological, anatomical, immunological, and genetic similarities to humans. Pigs not only serve as natural hosts for influenza viruses highly similar to those in humans, but their lung structure and antibody responses also provide a highly relevant platform for translational research.

The postholder will investigate the potential of mRNA-encoded antibodies, interferons, and other innate immune stimulators administered to the respiratory tract to prevent infection and interrupt transmission. This will include evaluating their capacity to reduce viral shedding, limit lung pathology, and disease severity. A central element of the project involves comparing different delivery strategies to determine which offer the most effective expression and protection in vivo. The role will also involve the development of porcine influenza-specific monoclonal antibodies following infection or immunisation, with detailed analysis of their specificity, functionality, and repertoire depending on the route of administration.

To achieve these objectives, the postholder will apply a broad range of immunological and virological techniques, including ELISA, microneutralization assays, virus propagation, plaque assays, molecular cloning, antibody repertoire profiling, and bioinformatics. These methods will be integral to assessing both the immune response and therapeutic efficacy of novel interventions.

This position represents an exciting opportunity to contribute to translational, interdisciplinary research with real-world impact on vaccine and therapeutic development in both human and veterinary medicine. The successful candidate will report directly to the Head of the Mucosal Immunology Group and will maintain close communication with collaborators within the BMGF network.

Main duties and responsibility

Responsible for conducting research into transmission of and immunity to influenza viruses

• Assisted with analysis of B and T cell responses following influenza infection

• Helped identify and characterise antigen-specific B cells using flow cytometry

• Contributed to antibody repertoire analysis under supervision

• Cloning and recombinant expression of influenza specific monoclonal antibodies

• Assisted in functional testing of monoclonal antibodies, including ELISA, neutralisation, HAI, ADCC, CDC and ADCP assays

• Preparation of virus challenge material and quantification of virus load in tissues

• Assist with conducting influenza animal studies

Responsible for working as part of a research team, which will include

• Communicating progress and data, including presentations as internal and external meetings

• Help supervise students and staff

• Adapt existing and develop new scientific techniques and experimental protocols

• Assist with lab management (ordering, looking after equipment, sample inventories)

• Developing and maintaining documentation associated with the health, safety, and biosecurity of the research to preserve a safe working environment

• Performing a range of outreach activities

Main criteria

Essential

• A Master’s degree (or equivalent experience) in a relevant biosciences discipline.

• Experience in influenza virological techniques including virus propagation and quantification, microneutralization and haemagglutination inhibition assays.

• Experience in immunology including flow cytometry, analysis of cellular and humoral responses, ELISPOT, proliferation assays, ELISA, ADCC and ADCP.

• Ability to effectively prioritise tasks and manage workload under pressure.

• Willingness to work outside of standard working hours when required.

Desirable

• Experience of working in a laboratory environment.

• Experience in biological containment practices and in working under bio secure conditions.

• Experience in working with large animals.

• Basic computer skills including use of Microsoft office packages, experience in data presentation and statistical analyses.

• Evidence of experience and vision to carry out scientific research in a multi-disciplinary team.

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 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 jobs@pirbright.ac.uk for an update.