Chris Pirson

VetHub1 Manager

Biorisk Advisor

Dangerous Goods Safety Advisor

After attaining a DipHE in Biomedical Science from the University of Wolverhampton, Chris began his career as a research scientist working on tuberculosis infection in cattle at the Animal and Plant Health Agency.  Chris completed an MSc in Medical Microbiology at the University of Surrey, studying single nucleotide polymorphisms in the Mycobacterium tuberculosis family and subsequently spent time working for the Home Office, Defence Science and Technology Laboratory, and Public Health England on CBR  emergency response and detection.

Chris returned to APHA to study for his doctorate in collaboration with the University of Birmingham, where his research aimed to elucidate specific roles of mycobacterial lipid molecules in the interaction between Mycobacterium bovis and it's host.  During this time, Chris also worked on the development of differential diagnostic tests for bovine tuberculosis, the discovery of novel mycobacterial antigens for DIVA tests and new vaccine strategies, and the administration of a national testing and surveillance programme.

Moving into the private sector, Chris worked as a researcher working on novel immunotherapeutic drugs with applications in oncology, infectious, and autoimmune diseases.  Transitioning away from lab work during this time to oversee the building and development of new high level containment facilities for handling dangerous pathogens, Chris became the biological safety lead for the company.

Chris is a Fellow of the Institute of Biomedical Science, a Member of the Institute of Safety in Technology and Research, an accredited Biosafety Practitioner, and a certified Dangerous Goods Safety Advisor.