CVIM Senior Scientist in Woking

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 Centre for Veterinary Vaccine Innovation and Manufacturing (CVIM) at The Pirbright Institute (TPI) has been recently established to help meet an unmet global need for livestock vaccines. CVIM offers an exciting opportunity to bridge the gaps between research, expertise in process development, and manufacturing of innovative vaccines for neglected, zoonotic and emerging infectious diseases of livestock. The selected candidate will be expected to support research and development (R&D) activities of CVIM and will join the CVIM process development team and be supervised by the Process Development and Facility Lead. The advertised role provides a unique opportunity to develop new scientific and technical skills across a range of vaccine platforms and to engage with collaborators and industry.

Main duties and responsibilities include:

• Joining a highly skilled team developing veterinary vaccines using a range of technology platforms, focusing on the evaluation of RNA as a cost‑effective vaccine platform for application in livestock.
• Supporting all stages of RNA vaccine development, including RNA construct design, in vitro transcription (IVT) and expression analysis in cell lines, as well as formulation of RNA candidates, quality control and evaluation of immunogenicity.
• Working in The Pirbright Institute’s state‑of‑the‑art high containment facilities and developing expertise in next‑generation RNA vaccine platforms.
• Incorporating methods, quality assurance and good laboratory practices (GLP).
• Assisting in the development of new upstream and downstream processes suitable for the development and scale‑up of new veterinary vaccines.
• Preparing reference antigens and performing serology assays using vaccinate sera.
• Participating in training necessary for CVIM activities.

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.

Personal specification includes:

• Time management, reliability under pressure, decision making/problem solving skills, action‑oriented, entrepreneurial, creative, influential, collaborative, diplomatic, results driven, passionate, engaging and recognising.

Specific requirements include:

• A PhD or equivalent in a relevant branch of biosciences.
• Laboratory experience that encompasses a wide range of cell culture, molecular biology and virology techniques.
• Ability to work independently and as a member of a group.
• Ability to multitask with good planning skills.
• Good networking skills with the ability to build effective collaborative relationships.
• Experience in manufacturing processes (upstream and/or downstream processes).
• Experience in RNA vaccine production.
• Experience of working with pathogens and/or in high containment facilities.
• Experience of working with genetically modified micro‑organisms (GMMs).
• Experience of working to Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) and/or Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP).

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 includes:

• 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).