Diagnostic Research Scientist

Diagnostic Research Scientist

HEO National - £30,473 to £37,215

Location: Porton Down, On site

FTC Contract until 31 March 2025

The Diagnostic Accelerator function supports the Diagnostic Strategy by developing diagnostics quickly in response to new and emerging pathogens, in collaboration with commercial and/or academic partners. The function also works with other teams within the division, the Science Group, and the UKHSA, as well as external organisations such as academia, commercial Diagnostic firms, HMG, FIND, CEPI, WHO, BMGF, USG, and others. The function ensures compliance with all relevant national and international regulations, in close coordination with the Standards, Regulatory and Quality Assurance directorate.

The Diagnostics & Pathogen Characterisation department is located at Porton and has about 130 staff. The department conducts various research activities on pathogen characterisation; virology and pathogenesis; diagnostics, innovation and evaluation; and biosafety and environmental microbiology.

The department contributes to the UKHSA’s vision of being a global leader in vaccines/therapeutics and diagnostics.

Porton Down, Salisbury

Working Pattern - Full Time, on site, 37.5 hours per week.

Responsibilities section:

To work as a Diagnostic Research Scientist in the Diagnostic Accelerator team providing serological/molecular/antigenic expertise to deliver scientific and technical projects. 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.

Key Responsibilities

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. Provide reports through collation of data using software and databases as necessary, to meet project targets.
5. To perform any other duties required by the Line manager commensurate with grade.
6. 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.
7. To maintain health and safety competence.
8. To fulfil the requirements of UKHSA Values and Behaviours and the Civil Service Code.
9. To comply with all UKHSA policies and procedures.

The above is only an outline of the tasks, responsibilities and outcomes required of the role. You will carry out any other duties as may reasonably be required by the directorate.

Press Apply to learn more about this opportunity!