CL2 Laboratory Technician

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 Laboratory Management team provides essential operational support to scientists across the Pirbright Institute, helping to ensure laboratory facilities, equipment and support services operate safely, efficiently and with minimum disruption to the Institute’s science programmes. The team is made up of two key services:

• Laboratory Management: acting as a key interface between science staff and operational support services, coordinating laboratory operations, equipment servicing, maintenance activities and operational support across laboratory environments.
• Glasswash, Sterilisation and Media: delivering media production, autoclave operation, glasswash and sterilisation services in support of scientific activities

The Laboratory Management team sits within the Risk & Assurance Directorate, reporting into the Director of Risk & Assurance, a member of the Senior Leadership Board.

The Laboratory Technician reports directly to the CL2 Laboratory Manager and works as part of a multidisciplinary operational support team. The role provides direct operational and technical support to Laboratory Managers and science users, contributing to the safe, compliant and efficient running of laboratory facilities and scientific equipment across the Institute.

The role will work collaboratively and flexibly with the wider Laboratory Management team, including the Glasswash, Sterilisation and Media team, as well as with Science, Animal Services, Health, Safety & Biosafety (HSBS) and Estates Management Services (EMS), particularly the Facilities and Scientific Equipment Helpdesk teams.

This role will primarily support Containment Level 2 (CL2) laboratories, while also developing and maintaining cross-functional capability across wider laboratory operations to support operational resilience, service continuity and professional development within the Laboratory Management team.

• Support Laboratory Managers in maintaining laboratory facilities and scientific equipment, proactively identifying issues and supporting their timely resolution.
• Support the organisation and coordination of equipment installation, relocation, and servicing activities.
• Host and liaise with service engineers during routine maintenance and repair visits.
• Log equipment faults, repairs, and maintenance activities in a timely and accurate manner.
• Update and maintain the scientific equipment database.
• Assist with monitoring laboratory environmental conditions and maintaining associated monitoring systems and records.
• Carry out routine laboratory support tasks such as
  -80°C freezer defrosts and liquid nitrogen tank maintenance.

• Act as Room Officer for designated communal laboratories, carrying out routine laboratory…