Scientist

Location: Porton Down, Salisbury

Hours: 37.5 hours/week

Contract: FTC until 31^st March 2025

The successful candidates will be working as Scientists 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:

• Under the direction of senior scientists, 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.
• Take responsibility for the provision of equipment, reagents and consumables required for the project and documented storage of materials generated.
• Ensure data produced is of a high scientific standard ready to be utilised in project reports and presentations.
• Provide support to other laboratory staff, ensuring appropriate consumables and reagents are available.
• Take responsibility for laboratory housekeeping and supervision of laboratories following necessary training.
• To perform any other duties required by the Line manager commensurate with grade.
• 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.
• To maintain health and safety competence.
• To fulfil the requirements of UKHSA Values and Behaviours and the Civil Service Code.
• To comply with all UKHSA policies and procedures. 

Essential

• Degree in relevant subject e.g., Biomedical Science Microbiology/Virology/Molecular Biology/Immunology
• Experience of working in a microbiology/molecular biology laboratory
• Good knowledge and practical familiarity with techniques for project i.e., diagnosis of bacteria and viruses such as Real-time PCR, ELISA, IFA, LFD
• Experience of working with clinical samples and commercial diagnostic testing 

Desirable

• Relevant HCPC Registration e.g. Biomedical Scientist, or hold IBSM Accredited Biomedical Sciences Degree
• Experience of assay validation and verification
• Experience of LIMS systems for patient sample management including data analysis and queries on samples, sample types and tests 

Please click on the 'Apply' button above to apply

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