Postdoctoral Scientist : Surrey, United Kingdom

Job Title Postdoctoral Scientist 
Directorate Science
Department African Swine Fever Virus Group.
Pay Band and Salary Range Band D, Up to £38,154
Contract type Fixed Term 1 years
Reporting To Head of African Swine Fever Virus Group.
Line Manager Responsibilities No
Main Work Location The Pirbright Institute, Pirbright, Surrey, GU24 0NF
Application Closing Date 24/09/2017

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. 
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.

Organisation position and purpose:
The Postdoctoral Research Scientist is a pivotal member of the African swine fever virus (ASFV) research team and will be responsible for delivering scientific objectives on a project funded by a commercial partner to develop candidate live attenuated vaccine strains.

ASFV is a large DNA virus that causes a severe disease in domestic pigs and wild boar. The disease is endemic in sub-Saharan Africa, the Russian Federation, Sardinia and some countries in Eastern Europe.

The ASFV group carries out strategic and applied research aimed at improving understanding of ASFVhost interactions to underpin development of vaccines.