Research Scientist (Avian Influenza)

Closing date: 8 October 2021

The Research Scientist or Postdoctoral Research Scientist will be part of the Avian Influenza Research group led by Professor Munir Iqbal. The researcher will perform a key role in developing and testing of new multivalent vaccines protecting poultry from major poultry viral diseases including avian influenza, Newcastle disease, infectious bronchitis, and Gumboro disease.

Main duties and responsibility

You will be responsible for taking forward the Pirbright Institute's novel “Targeted Antigen Delivery Vaccine” (TADV) technology which selectively targets antigens to chicken antigen-presenting cells (APCs) and potentiates the immunogenicity of the vaccine (PMID: 34267228, 34358200). Using this technology, you will develop new multivalent vaccines protecting poultry from major viral diseases. The key responsibilities include (100%):

  • Producing recombinant viral antigens using insect and yeast cell culture systems 
  • Generating recombinant reverse genetics viruses (avian influenza and Newcastle disease virus) and multivalent vaccines by manipulating viral vectors such as herpesvirus Turkey (HVT), Duck enteritis virus (DEV) and Fowl adenoviruses (FAdVs) using CRISPR-Cas9 technology, 
  • Testing the immunogenicity and efficacy of novel vaccines using experimental animal models (chickens, turkey and ducks)
  • Keeping accurate records of samples and work performed
  • Analysing your results and preparing your data for discussion
  • Writing up your work for project reports and scientific manuscripts

You will contribute to the Avian Influenza research team by:

  • Supporting the key aims of our team:
    • To develop knowledge and tools for the prevention and control of avian diseases in poultry.
    • To collaborate with our industry partners
    • To work together in an inclusive, respectful and collaborative environment that supports the personal and professional development of every member, regardless of race, religion, ethnicity, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, or disability status.

You will contribute to the Pirbright Institute scientific community by:

  • Supporting all aspects of good laboratory practice including biosecurity, quality assurance and health and safety processes.
  • Taking part in outreach activities to communicate the scientific work to wider audiences
  • Discussing your work and ideas with colleagues including attending and participating in institute seminars

For more details, please visit the vacancy advert on the Pirbright Institute's careers website.

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