Calling All Microbiologists! Combat Lampy Skin Disease in Cattle: Research Associate Position at Veterinary Research Institute, Lahore

Are you a passionate and qualified microbiologist with a knack for research? Do you have a drive to contribute to solutions for animal health challenges? If so, we have the perfect opportunity for you! The Veterinary Research Institute (VRI) in Lahore, Pakistan, is seeking a dedicated Research Associate to join their team on a one-year contract (extendable up to two years) for a crucial project.

Combating Lampy Skin Disease: A Pressing Need

Lampy Skin Disease (LSD) is a highly contagious viral disease affecting cattle, causing significant economic losses to livestock farmers. The PARB project No. 22-118 at VRI aims to develop and comparatively evaluate homologous live and inactivated vaccines to combat LSD in cattle. This is a vital initiative to protect animal health and ensure the sustainability of Pakistan’s livestock industry.

Your Role as Research Associate

As a Research Associate in this project, you will play a key role in various aspects of vaccine development and evaluation. Your responsibilities will include:

• Participating in virus isolation procedures from LSD-infected cattle.
• Contributing to the molecular characterization of the isolated virus.
• Assisting in the development and optimization of both live and inactivated LSD vaccines.
• Performing Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) to assess immune response in animals.
• Participating in conducting controlled vaccine trials in cattle to evaluate their efficacy and safety.
• Maintaining accurate and detailed research records.
• Collaborating effectively with other team members to achieve project goals.

Who We Are Looking For

To be successful in this role, you should possess the following qualifications and experience:

• Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (D.V.M.) degree.
• Master’s degree (M.Phil or M.Sc Hons) in Microbiology from a Higher Education Commission (HEC) recognized university in Pakistan, with an exceptional academic record (no third divisions).
• Experience in virus isolation techniques.
• Familiarity with molecular characterization methods.
• Prior experience in vaccine development is highly desirable.
• Proficiency in performing ELISA tests.
• Experience conducting animal trials would be a significant advantage.
• Excellent communication, collaboration, and interpersonal skills.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• A keen interest in research and a passion for contributing to animal health solutions.

What We Offer

VRI offers a rewarding work environment with the opportunity to contribute to a significant research project. The successful candidate will receive a competitive stipend of PKR 75,000 per month, with a 7% annual increment for an extended contract.

How to Apply

We encourage only eligible and highly motivated candidates to apply. Applications can be submitted in two ways:

• Computer-typed or handwritten: Prepare your application along with attested copies of your educational certificates (degrees, transcripts), Curriculum Vitae (CV), experience certificates, and any other relevant documents. Submit your application in person or by post to the address mentioned below by September 10, 2024, during office hours.
• Email: While a physical application is preferred, you can also consider sending a scanned copy of your application package to the Project Manager at the email address provided (details below).

Important Note

• Incomplete applications or those received after the deadline will not be considered.
• Mention your valid phone numbers, cell numbers, WhatsApp number, and email address clearly on your application.
• The Project Manager reserves the right to withdraw the vacancy without assigning any reason.
• Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview via phone, WhatsApp, or email.
• No travel allowances or daily allowances will be provided.

Join the Fight Against Lampy Skin Disease!

This is an excellent opportunity for a talented and experienced microbiologist to make a real difference in the field of animal health. If you are eager to contribute to the development of a novel vaccine for LSD and have the necessary qualifications, we encourage you to apply!

Table: Job Summary