Hunt UK Visa Sponsors
Copyright © 2026
Copyright © 2026
Above analytics are generated algorithmically based on job titles and may not always be the same as the company's job classification. You can also check detailed occupation eligibility, and salary criteria on our UK Visa Eligible Occupations & Salary Thresholds page.
Disclaimer: Hunt UK Visa Sponsors aggregates job listings from publicly available sources, such as search engines, to assist with your job hunting. We do not claim affiliation with The Pirbright Institute. For the most up-to-date job details, please visit the official website by clicking "Apply Now."
Head of High-Throughput Sequencing
Salary: £48,900.00 - £52,000.00
Hours: 37 hours
Employment Type: Permanent/Full Time
Contract Length: Permanent
Closing Date: 05 February 2026
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.
Organisation position and purpose
The activities of the High-Throughput Sequencing (HTS) Science Technology Platform (STP) are central to delivering high-impact genomics research at The Pirbright Institute. Established in 2018, the STP plays a major role in executing both small and large-scale genomics projects at the institute. We are located within state-of-the-art SAPO4 high-containment facilities in the Plowright building and provide bespoke, targeted assistance to users. The team works closely with numerous research groups at Pirbright and supports WOAH/FAO reference laboratory pathogen surveillance duties.
The unit owns and operates Illumina and Nanopore sequencing platforms, alongside liquid handling robots (Hamilton and Mosquito HV) and single-cell equipment (10X). The STP lead role will provide leadership across sequencing platform activities and contribute strategically to oversight committees, with a strong emphasis on identifying, evaluating, and implementing emerging technologies in sequencing and adjacent fields to maintain and advance the platform’s capabilities. The position will oversee key duties including (but not limited to) unit management, technical troubleshooting, and maintenance of sequencing equipment and robotic liquid handlers. Candidates are encouraged to use the flexibility of the role to pursue their own research interests, where appropriate.
Main duties and responsibility
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.
Specific requirements
Essential
Desirable
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.
What we offer