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 Manager reports directly to the Laboratory Management Lead. The Laboratory Manager will have line management responsibilities for at least one Technician.
The role will work collaboratively with the wider Laboratory Management team including the Glasswash, Sterilisation and Media team, as well as other teams on site including Science, Animal Services, Health, Safety & Biosafety (HSBS) and Estates Management Service (EMS) especially the Facilities and Scientific Equipment Helpdesk teams.
This role will have primary responsibility for 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
Laboratory Operations
- Manage the day-to-day functioning of the CL2 laboratories acting as the focal point for operational issues.
- Organise and coordinate routine and reactive maintenance for laboratory facilities, in conjunction with the Laboratory Management team and relevant service providers.
- Liaise with engineering and operational teams to maintain optimal conditions in laboratory areas and aid in response to breakdowns.
- Maintain a comprehensive equipment asset plan for lab areas ensuring effective lifecycle management of critical equipment.
- Develop and implement a cold-storage inventory and mapping system for liquid nitrogen storage tanks and -80 freezer parks.
- Ensure emergency freezers are available and functional; coordinate response to freezer breakdowns.
- Support installation or movement of equipment, ensuring records are maintained in collaboration with the Scientific Equipment Helpdesk.
- Coordinate use and allocation of laboratory space in line with Institute priorities.
- Chair or attend relevant committees as required.
- Responsible for coordinating the hosting of contractors.
Line Management and Team Leadership
- Provide coaching, mentoring, and support to team members to ensure high performance.
- Conduct performance and development reviews, set objectives, and support professional development.
- Coordinate staffing schedules as required to ensure continuous laboratory operations.
- Support recruitment, induction, and training of new employees.
- Foster a positive, collaborative, and safety-focused working environment.
Equipment Oversight
- Oversee the servicing, maintenance and service contract management of laboratory equipment, working closely with the Scientific Equipment Helpdesk.
- Ensure servicing (planned and responsive) is carried out with minimal disruption to science activities.
- Liaise with the HSBS team on matters relating to equipment use and servicing.
Safety & Compliance
- Coordinate review of facility risk assessments, Codes of Practice and periodic reporting for facilities.
- Maintain working knowledge of health, safety, biosafety, and quality assurance standards, ensuring compliance across all laboratories managed.
- Participate in Quality, Biosafety and Health & Safety audits and close out assigned actions.
Training & User Support
- Carry out laboratory inductions, tours, and competency assessments for new and existing staff.
- Provide guidance and oversight on best practice for equipment and laboratory use.
- Act as a key communication link between science users and support services.
Continuous Improvement & Operational Development
- Contribute to Institute-wide laboratory improvement, sustainability and operational development initiatives.
- Lead or contribute to cross-functional projects involving laboratory operations, engineering, health & safety, IT, sustainability or scientific infrastructure.
- Support implementation of best practice laboratory standards and accreditation initiatives (e.g. LEAF or equivalent frameworks).
- Represent Laboratory Management in internal or external working groups, forums or professional networks as required
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 need of The Pirbright Institute.
Role Requirements
Essential
- Degree or equivalent experience in biosciences or a related discipline.
- Laboratory management experience, including coordination of multiple laboratory areas demonstrating service orientation and customer focus.
- Practical experience in laboratory techniques.
- Experience in establishing and assessing biological hazards and implementing appropriate risk mitigation measures, demonstrating attention to detail and intellectual engagement.
- Evidence of excellent oral and written communication skills, with the ability to communicate effectively at all levels, demonstrating strong interpersonal, problem-solving and decision-making skills.
- Ability to work independently, collaboratively and as part of a team whilst under deadlines, showing flexibility, reliability, and resilience.
- Willingness to work within containment facilities.
- Computer literacy and ability to work with laboratory and asset management systems and software.
Desirable
- Experience writing SOPs, methods, risk assessments, and reports, demonstrating analytical and documentation skills.
- Experience working within a quality management framework, showing commitment to compliance and continuous improvement.
- Experience using laboratory or asset management database systems.
- Line management experience, including staff supervision and performance management, evidencing leadership skills and the ability to motivate teams.
- Experience working in contained facilities beyond standard CL1/CL2.
What Pirbright offers you
- Generous Group Personal Pension Scheme and life cover (subject to age and earnings)
- 25 days annual leave plus public and privilege days, increasing up to 31 days with long service.
- Enhanced Maternity package.
- Buy and sell annual leave
- Option to carry over up to two weeks annual leave
- Pirbright gym with membership
- Pirbright social club
- Pirbright Lifestyle Hub (employee discount site)
- Cycle to work
- Subsidised staff restaurant
- Childcare allowance
- Free onsite parking
- Electric Car charging facilities
Ready to make a difference?
If you are an experienced laboratory management 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!
Important notice
- The Pirbright Institute is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified candidates. We are committed to diversity and inclusion within our workforce.
- Due to the nature of the work carried out by Pirbright, all successful applicants will be required to go through a comprehensive screening process including reference and qualification checks, financial and security clearances.
- 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.
Due to the high volume of applications, we receive, if you have not heard from us within one month of the vacancy closing date, please contact us at [email protected] for an update.
