About The Pirbright Institute
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.
About the role
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.
Key Responsibilities
Operational Support
- 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.
Laboratory Safety & Compliance
- Act as Room Officer for designated communal laboratories, carrying out routine laboratory checks and supporting compliance with housekeeping, safety and operational standards.
- Maintain quality assurance records in line with relevant codes of practice and Institute procedures.
- Follow biosafety and health and safety policies and promptly report any non-compliance or unsafe practices to the line manager.
- Apply good laboratory practice, including standards of behaviour and hygiene.
Training & Communication
- Provide training for staff and students in the safe and effective use of designated laboratory equipment.
- Assist Laboratory Managers with communication between science users and support services to minimise disruption to research activities.
- Liaise effectively with engineers, contractors, and support teams during laboratory maintenance or servicing works.
Continuous Improvement & Personal Responsibility
- Maintain personal electronic training records for all mandatory courses.
- Take ownership of personal health and safety responsibilities in line with Institute Risk and Assurance procedures.
- Proactively identify laboratory operational issues and, using appropriate initiative, work with Laboratory Managers and relevant teams to develop and implement practical solutions.
- Contribute to operational decision-making and continuous improvement initiatives that enhance the efficiency, safety and reliability of laboratory operations.
This job description is intended to convey information essential to understanding the scope of the position and is not an exhaustive list of skills, efforts, duties, responsibilities, or working conditions associated with it. Responsibilities may change to carry out other duties as may be reasonably required by the line manager and may be reviewed on an ongoing basis in accordance with the changing needs of The Pirbright Institute.
Role Requirement
Essential
- Relevant knowledge and experience gained within a bioscience or laboratory environment, such as an academic, industrial or research setting.
- Computer literate, with the ability to learn and work confidently with database systems.
- Attention to detail and accuracy in record keeping.
- Ability to respond effectively to changing priorities and operational issues.
- Ability to perform accurate calculations and interpret technical data.
- Effective time management skills with the ability to prioritise tasks.
- Evidence of interpersonal and communication skills.
- Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team.
- Ability to use initiative to identify issues, solve problems and contribute to effective solutions.
- Awareness of health and safety in laboratory environments, with willingness to take personal responsibility for compliance.
Desirable
- Higher education qualification in biosciences (e.g., HND, BSc, or equivalent).
- Practical experience of applying biosafety and laboratory health and safety procedures.
- Experience of maintaining or managing laboratory databases.
- TESTO system experience
- Experience of working within a quality management or assurance framework.
- Experience of working or supporting shared and/or containment laboratories or other regulated laboratory environments.
What Pirbright offers you
- A supportive and collaborative working environment with a strong sense of community.
- Beautiful campus in a semi-rural location with free on-site parking and good transport links.
- Generous Group Personal Pension Scheme and life assurance (subject to age and earnings).
- 25 days annual leave plus public and privilege days, increasing up to 31 days with service.
- Enhanced Maternity package.
- Option to buy and sell annual leave.
- Option to carry over up to two weeks' annual leave.
- Pirbright Lifestyle Hub (employee discount site).
- Cycle to work scheme.
- Childcare allowance.
- Access to chargeable electric car charging facilities.
- Access to on-site subsidised facilities including staff restaurant, gym, and social club with subsidised membership.
Ready to make a difference?
If you are a talented and driven laboratory operations professional seeking a challenging and rewarding opportunity within a prestigious scientific institute, we encourage you to apply. Please submit your CV and a compelling cover letter outlining your experience and why you are the ideal candidate for this role.
We look forward to hearing from you!
