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Form of work
SalarySenior Medical Entomologist
SEO National - £38,724 - £44,393
Based at UKHSA Porton Down
Permanent Contract
Senior Medical Entomologist - Vector-Borne Diseases
Are you passionate about protecting public health from vector-borne diseases? Do you have expertise in entomology, especially on ticks and mosquitoes? Do you enjoy working in a dynamic and collaborative team?
If yes, then you might be the ideal candidate for the Senior Medical Entomologist position at the Medical Entomology & Zoonoses Ecology (MEZE) group of UKHSA.
About the MEZE group
The MEZE group is a leading authority on vector-borne diseases in the UK and beyond. We assess, prepare, and respond to current and emerging threats posed by vectors such as ticks and mosquitoes. We conduct research and surveillance activities to provide entomological expertise and advice to UKHSA, the Department of Health, and other relevant agencies and departments. We also work internationally on vector-borne disease projects funded by the European Union and support the surveillance systems in the UK Overseas Territories.
About the role
As a Senior Medical Entomologist, you will be part of a multidisciplinary team responsible for the delivery of the scientific and technical activities of the MEZE group. You will provide medical entomology and vector-borne disease expertise, with a focus on tick-borne diseases. You will also develop, design, and deliver specific projects and resources, such as UKHSA’s National vector surveillance programmes of ticks and mosquitoes. You will contribute to the development and delivery of the wider team’s business plan and work programme.
About you
To be successful in this role, you will need:
- Highly developed communication skills
- Ability to work with minimal supervision and prioritise tasks independently
- Ability to liaise effectively and develop excellent working relationships with a wide range of senior and high-profile individuals, partners, and organisations
- A full UK driving licence
- Willingness to travel overseas and obtain security clearance if required
Location
Based at UKHSA Porton Down - Hybrid working available
*Please be aware that this role can only be worked from within the UK and not overseas. Relocation expenses are not available.*
Working Pattern - Full Time, Flexible Working, Hybrid Working,
Responsibilities section:
The job holder will be required to carry out the following responsibilities, activities and duties:
Scientific research and surveillance
- Support programme managers to deliver a programme of work as set out in the teams/divisions business plan.
- Investigate worldwide entomological and infectious disease literature and other sources on emerging and re-emerging vector-borne diseases, to identify vector-borne disease risks that might be relevant to UK public health.
- Further develop vector research and surveillance activities for human vector-borne diseases, leading on specific projects and utilising a range of research methods (desk/lab/field-based), statistical analyses and entomological research techniques to identify risks that might be relevant to UK public health as specified in the business plan.
- Critically analyse and interpret data and information on complex, sensitive or contentious issues from internally and externally funded contract work, drawing conclusions and making recommendations for the way forward, including the production of reports, presentations, peer-reviewed publications, and funding applications where appropriate.
- Take responsibility for the supervision, training and mentoring of staff allocated to the projects you lead. Deputise for the Principal Medical Entomologist as required and represent Medical Entomology & Zoonoses Ecology at key cross-government (or equivalent) meetings when necessary.
- Lead projects and mentor staff on vector-borne disease related surveillance and research in the UK and overseas, ensuring timely delivery of reports to funders and stakeholders.
Publication and communication
- Liaise with colleagues in UKHSA and other Government Departments to ensure robust reporting lines for emerging VBD events and establish and maintain links/collaborations with other national and international experts to obtain relevant technical information, discuss ideas, describe work developments and progress.
- Act as a point of contact to provide advice on vector-borne disease issues, providing assistance to UKHSA staff, programme managers and other stakeholders.
- Assist in developing responses to internal correspondence and parliamentary questions. Supporting or leading the delivery of reports / risk assessments to Government.
Health Protection
- Assist in producing advice and guidance materials on vector-borne disease risks for dissemination to local authorities or other government agencies responsible for health and wellbeing in their area.
- Assist in providing written and verbal advice on the protection of the public from vector-borne disease issues where appropriate, including providing training and support to UKHSA centres, and local authorities on tick and mosquito related issues.
The duties/responsibilities listed above describe the post as it is at present and is not intended to be exhaustive. The Job holder is expected to accept reasonable alterations and additional tasks of a similar level that may be necessary.
