Postdoctoral Influenza Virologist
About the Avian Influenza & Newcastle Disease Group
The Post-doctoral Influenza Virologist position is funded by the BBSRC for an initial duration of 18 months. The selected researcher will serve as a pivotal member of the Avian Influenza and Newcastle Disease group, led by Professor Munir Iqbal. The researcher's primary responsibility will be to investigate the mechanisms through which high pathogenicity H5Nx avian influenza viruses evolve to infect and persist in birds. Specifically, they will focus on the identification of molecular markers that influence virus virulence, antigenicity, and adaptation within poultry populations
The initial funding for this project is until 31 March 2025, extension is subject to the availability of further funding.
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.
Main duties and responsibilities:
- To undertake experiments to achieve the specific objectives and milestones within the indicated timelines of the research project.
- Tasks include designing, setting up, running, and optimizing experiments in consultation and collaboration with the principal investigator and other members of the research group.
- To analyze and critically interpret data using methodologies appropriate to the research objectives.
- To prepare material for publication in academic journals and for presentation at scientific conferences, in consultation with the principal investigator and other colleagues.
- To actively participate in and contribute to the institute and research group culture and activities. This includes presenting data at group research update meetings, seminars, and performing shared laboratory duties when required.
- To be collegiate and collaborate with fellow research group members and partnering institutions. Additionally, to offer support and constructive assistance to other group members when necessary.
- To maintain comprehensive and accurate records of all research conducted and analysed during tenure in this research group.
Person Specification
- Results driven.
- Excellent time management and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to be reliable under pressure.
- Passionate about your research and provide inspiration and creativity to other team members.
- Excellent decision-making/problem-solving skills
- Action-oriented whilst ability to demonstrate emotional intelligence.
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: https://www.gov.uk/global-talent
The Pirbright Institute may be able to make a financial contribution towards the cost of immigration to the UK.
Essential/Desirable requirements
Essential
- PhD in a relevant branch of biosciences, (Virology/Influenza virology)
- Fundamental knowledge in molecular virology of influenza and related viruses
- Working experience in handling high pathogenicity avian influenza viruses in a high-containment laboratory and animal facility
- Experience in the production of recombinant viruses using reverse genetic approaches.
- Scientific publications in a relevant field (appropriate to experience)
Desirable
- Experience in carrying out animal experimental work involving poultry as a Personal Licence holder, under the Home Office approved Project Licence guidelines.
- Experience in biological containment practices and in working under bio secure conditions.
- Evidence of experience and vision to carry out scientific research in collaboration and multi-disciplinary teams.