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- Tasks: Conduct cutting-edge research on animal pathogens and develop innovative diagnostic methods.
- Company: The Pirbright Institute, a leader in viral disease research with a vibrant community.
- Benefits: Generous pension scheme, 25 days annual leave, gym membership, and employee discounts.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in virology and contribute to global health solutions.
- Qualifications: PhD in biosciences, lab experience, and strong communication skills required.
- Other info: Dynamic team environment with opportunities for international engagement and career growth.
The predicted salary is between 37000 - 46000 £ 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.
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 reference laboratories and provides diagnostic and confirmatory testing for both national (Defra) and international competent authorities.
The post holder will be expected to manage discreet pieces of work, for example: assay validation, research questions or driving improvements to existing procedures. The postholder will be expected to proactively plan and deliver projects within agreed timeframes. In addition, they will be encouraged to explore opportunities from external sources and/or internal grant funding, and to support peers with research applications and publications.
Main duties and responsibilities:- Develop expertise in a variety of methods for diagnosis and characterisation of animal pathogens
- Testing and validating new assays and technologies for the diagnosis of livestock diseases to ISO/IEC 17025 standards
- Independently plan scientific projects to meet milestones and address applied research questions
- Identification, characterisation and maintenance of suitable sample panels and reference material for evaluation of assays i.e. development of ILC panels
- Apply critical thinking to evaluate data and address problems effectively
- Independently write scientific reports/publications that clearly and accurately present data
- Liaising with relevant research groups at Pirbright to foster research collaborations
- Horizon scanning to identify new development areas for improving diagnostic workflows
While there are no specific line-management duties, the selected candidate will have the opportunity to work in a diverse team, interacting with staff across numerous science departments. 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:- A PhD or equivalent experience in a relevant branch of biosciences
- A demonstrated interest in virology
- Significant experience working in a laboratory environment
- Ability to plan, execute and deliver experimental plans
- Ability to work independently
- Evidence of excellent oral and written communication skills
- Proven ability to prepare and present high quality scientific data
- Evidence of effective critical thinking
- Reliability under pressure and ability to change priorities as necessary
- Computer literate with a good knowledge of different computer programmes and experience in data presentation and statistical analyses
- Experience in diagnostic development and test validation
- Evidence of contributing to scientific publications
- Evidence of international engagement
Due to the nature of the work we do, all successful applicants will be required to go through a comprehensive screening process including reference and qualification checks, financial and security clearances.
We would like to encourage all overseas applicants to consider the Tier 1 Global Talent Visa route. This has been designed for eligible, scientific researchers to work and live in the UK, subject to certain criteria. Please see for further information under the link: Global Talent Visa.
The Pirbright Institute may be able to make a financial contribution towards the cost of immigration to the UK.
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)
Senior Laboratory Analyst in Woking employer: The Pirbright Institute
Contact Detail:
The Pirbright Institute Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Laboratory Analyst in Woking
✨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!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by diving deep into their research. Familiarise yourself with their recent projects and publications. This shows you're genuinely interested and ready to contribute.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your responses to common interview questions, especially around your experience in virology and lab work. We want you to feel confident and articulate when discussing your skills!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Laboratory Analyst in Woking
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience in virology and laboratory work. We want to see how your skills align with the specific duties mentioned in the job description.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since you'll be writing scientific reports and publications, it's crucial to demonstrate your written communication skills. Use clear and concise language in your application to reflect this ability.
Highlight Your Project Management Experience: We’re looking for someone who can independently plan and deliver projects. Be sure to include examples of how you've managed similar tasks in the past, especially under tight deadlines.
Apply Through Our Website: To make sure your application gets the attention it deserves, apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to keep track of your application and ensure you’re considered for the role!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Pirbright Institute
✨Know Your Science
Make sure you brush up on your virology and diagnostic development knowledge. Be prepared to discuss specific assays and technologies you've worked with, as well as any relevant research questions you've tackled. This will show that you're not just familiar with the theory but can apply it practically.
✨Showcase Your Project Management Skills
Since the role involves independently planning and delivering projects, be ready to share examples of how you've managed similar tasks in the past. Highlight your ability to meet milestones and adapt to changing priorities, as this will demonstrate your reliability under pressure.
✨Communicate Clearly
Excellent oral and written communication skills are a must for this position. Practice explaining complex scientific concepts in simple terms, and prepare to discuss any publications you've contributed to. This will help convey your ability to present high-quality scientific data effectively.
✨Emphasise Collaboration
The Pirbright Institute values teamwork, so be prepared to talk about your experience working in diverse teams. Share examples of how you've fostered research collaborations or supported peers in their projects. This will show that you align with their 'one Institute' approach.