Research technician in virology on the study of highly pathogenic avian influenza virus genesis, emergence and antigenic evolution

Birds are the main hosts of influenza A viruses, with viruses from 17 different hemagglutinin (HA) subtypes known to circulate. Most avian influenza viruses are low pathogenic (LPAIV), but viruses of the H5 and H7 subtypes can spontaneously convert to highly pathogenic avian influenza viruses (HPAIV) upon transmission from wild waterfowl to domestic poultry. This has occurred at least 47 times over the past 50 years. HPAIVs cause systemic infection with mortality rates of up to 100% in poultry and are a major burden for avian health, but also a constant zoonotic threat, as illustrated by the numerous mammalian spillover events observed during the current H5 HPAIV panzootic. The circulation in various animal species of H5 HPAIVs has led to their genetic and antigenic diversification, challenging vaccine design and pandemic prepardness.

Our research team focuses on several aspects linked to the study of HPAIV genesis, emergence and antigenic evolution, including vaccine design. You will work in a research team to conduct laboratory experiments, analyze data, interpret results, operate and maintain laboratory equipment. You will also assist and support the experimental and operational work of team members (e.g. PhD students, post-doctoral researchers). Your experimental work will include basic techniques in virology (BSL2 and BSL3 levels), primary cell and continuous line cell culture, state-of-the art molecular biology, reverse genetics, biochemical assays, and next-generation sequencing.