Research Assistant

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 3

Rs (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 postholder will be a pivotal member of the African swine fever virus (ASFV) immune evasion group, led by Dr. Ana Reis. They will deliver the scientific objectives of a BBSRC Follow‑on Fund grant, a collaborative project between the Pirbright Institute and the University of Plymouth.

African swine fever (ASF), a devastating haemorrhagic disease of both domestic pigs and wild boar, continues to spread across the globe and it is now considered a panzootic. Modified live vaccines (MLV) are viewed as the fastest route to achieve protection against ASF. However, conventional continuous cell lines are not suitable for MLV production, as viral genome modifications can occur randomly in these cells, reducing vaccine efficacy.

The project aims to further develop an immortalised macrophage cell line, PLTA
58, that supports ASFV growth, thus overcoming the limitations of conventional cell lines.

The postholder will be responsible for the further optimisation of the PLTA
58 cells to improve MLV yield and to establish in vitro methods to predict the safety of MLV candidates. The post would be an excellent opportunity for an early career scientist wishing to gain experience in cell biology and virology, particularly working under high containment. They will report to Dr. Anusyah Rathakrishnan, a postdoctoral scientist in the ASFV immune evasion group.

• Optimize infection conditions for MLV production in PLTA
  58 cells
• Improve MLV yields using genetically modified PLTA
  58 cells.
• Characterise and compare changes in host proteins and phosphoproteins between wildtype ASFV and MLV candidate(s) in collaboration with the University of Plymouth
• Establish methods to predict safety of MLV candidate(s), using a range of reporter PLTA
  58 cells developed at the University of Plymouth

• Complete training required for working in high containment laboratories.
• Maintaining accurate records of experiments and results
• Present results to both internal and external audiences

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…