Specialist Biomedical Scientist

Grade and Salary: AFC6 £35,392 - £42,618

The Rare and Imported Pathogens Laboratory (RIPL) provide a front-line diagnostic service for the detection of Viral Haemorrhagic Fever (Ebola, Lassa, CCHF, Marburg), Arboviruses, Rickettsiae, and a range of ACDP Hazard Group 3 bacteria including Bacillus anthracis and Francisella tularensis. RIPL is also the provider of the Leptospira acute diagnostic service and the Lyme disease specialist unit diagnostic service. We are UKAS ISO15189 accredited and hold approval to provide IBMS registration and Virology specialist portfolios.

The post holder will perform a wide range of diagnostic assays utilising both serological and molecular techniques. The highest standards of quality and safety are essential.

You will be an HCPC registered Specialist Biomedical Scientist to provide expert technical support for the specialist reference laboratory work undertaken within RIPL in accordance with UKHSA and laboratory policies and procedures with particular focus on areas of serological diagnosis by ELISA and IFA and molecular identification using real-time PCR.

Location

This is a lab-based role located at UKHSA Porton Down, Salisbury, SP4 0JG.

*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.

Responsibilities section:

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

• To undertake a range of diagnostic assays and techniques as required, meeting the needs of RIPL service provision.
• To identify to management any potential conflicts of interest which may impinge on their ability to perform their duties effectively as defined by UKHSA Conflict of Interest Policy.
• Produce and maintain reagents to support current testing strategies and for the development of new assays.
• Assist in the identification, evaluation and adaptation of new technologies and diagnostic tests to enhance the laboratories capabilities and to ensure the project area works to a high scientific standard.
• Supply data to agreed timescales required by RIPL service level agreement.
• Undertake general laboratory duties including disposal of waste, equipment maintenance, stock control and ensuring a safe working environment.
• Undergo any training requirements as required for the post.
• Participate in the RIPL on-call rota to provide 24/7 cover.
• To ensure all work in undertaken in accordance with the UKHSA’s Code of Safety Practice and to work within ISO15189 quality standards
• To comply with UKHSA policy and procedures.
• To perform any other duties required by the line manager commensurate with grade.
• Prioritise, co-ordinate and organise specialist investigations and supervise the workload of a team of staff.

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. Please see the job description for the full list of duties and responsibilities.

Essential Criteria:

It is important through your application and Statement of Suitability of up to 1250 words that you give evidence and examples of proven experience of each of the following criteria:

Essential

• HCPC accredited degree
• IBMS Specialist Diploma
• Experience of diagnostic molecular biology testing, molecular methods including real time PCR
• Recent experience in a diagnostic or reference virology laboratory
• Experience of working in a regulated environment with quality systems and knowledge of UKAS ISO15189
• Working knowledge of LIMS
• Evidence of success in efficient and effective project and programme participation/management
• Used to working in a busy environment
• Demonstrate a strong desire to improve performance and make a difference by focusing on goals
• Problem solving skills and ability to respond to sudden unexpected demands
• Ability to analyse and interpret information, pre-empt and evaluate issues, and recommend and appropriate course of action to address the issues
• Skills for nurturing key relationships and maintaining networks
• Clear communicator with excellent writing, report writing and presentation skills; capable of constructing and delivering clear ideas and concepts concisely and accurately for diverse audiences
• Good knowledge and experience of serological methods including ELISA and IFA
• Skills for communication on complex matters and difficult situations, requiring persuasion and influence
• Strategic thinking - ability to anticipate

Desirable

• MSc in relevant subject
• IBMS membership

For full job description and further details, please click Apply Now.