Diagnostic Research Scientist

Location: Porton Down, Salisbury

Hours: 37.5 hours/week

Contract: Fixed Term (31/03/2025)

Job closes: Monday 9^th October 

The successful candidate will be working as a Diagnostic Research Scientist in the Diagnostic Accelerator team providing serological/molecular/antigenic expertise to deliver scientific and technical projects. They will be required to evaluate commercial assays and ensure delivery of new/improved/refined diagnostic assays for use in UKHSA or NHS diagnostic labs as well as training and surge capacity in the event of an outbreak. 

The job holder will be required to carry out the following responsibilities, activities and duties:

1. Develop/Evaluate/Implement and utilise a range of molecular, serological and antigenic methods in support of diagnostic evaluation activities for ACDP HG 2/3/4 pathogens, ensuring targets are met according to agreed specifications and timelines.
2. Take responsibility for the provision of equipment, reagents and consumables required for the project and documented storage of materials generated.
3. Independent working under the direction of the Project Team Leader to identify, evaluate and adapt new commercial diagnostic technologies, where appropriate, and to ensure that the project operates to a high scientific standard using current methods.
4. Participate in the supervision and training of junior staff allocated to the project in specific areas of expertise.
5. Provide reports through collation of data using software and databases as necessary, to meet project targets.
6. To perform any other duties required by the Line manager commensurate with grade.
7. To ensure that the project team undertakes work in accordance with UKHSA’s Code of Safety Practice and to work within any Quality Systems that are applicable to the site.
8. To maintain health and safety competence.
9. To fulfil the requirements of UKHSA Values and Behaviours and the Civil Service Code.
10. To comply with all UKHSA policies and procedures. 

Essential

• Degree in relevant subject e.g., Biomedical Science Microbiology/Virology/Molecular Biology/Immunology
• Experience of microbiological diagnostic test development, evaluation and validation for the diagnosis of bacteria and viruses such as Real-time PCR, ELISA, IFA, LFD
• Experience in working at ACDP CL2 with a range of microbial pathogens including culture, nucleic acid extraction, antigen preparation
• Experience of working with clinical samples and diagnostic testing
• A breadth of experience of line management and project management
• Experience in liaising with commercial stakeholders to deliver project milestones to agreed timelines in budget 

Desirable

• Relevant HCPC Registration e.g., Clinical Scientist/Biomedical Scientist
• Experience in working at ACDP CL3 with a range of microbial pathogens including culture, nucleic acid extraction, antigen preparation
• Experience of LIMS systems for patient sample management
• Relevant higher degree i.e., MSc/PhD in Microbiology/Virology/Molecular Biology/Immunology

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