Research Scientist

Job summary

We are now recruiting for a research scientist position within the Emerging Pathogen Serology group of UKHSA Porton Down. This role would suit a candidate with experience in assay development, performing serological assays, sample receipt and processing, This post will involve projects focussed on emerging pathogens such as Flaviviruses, Lassa, and Monkeypox.

Furthermore, it is expected that this position would involve, line management of placement students, supervision of junior staff, management of assay quality assurance as well as day-day operation of the laboratories.

Job description

• Perform a range of standard methods/assays/techniques in support of all activities associated with the project to ensure project deliverables are met on time and within budget
• Sample receipt, liaising with external partners about sample shipments, labelling up and processing of samples ready for testing
• Serology testing for internal/external research projects, clinical trials or serosurveillance using a multitude of serology platforms such as ELISA, Roche e801, MSD and Luminex
• Development of new assays, assay trouble shooting, assay validation, and implementation for routine use
• Take responsibility for laboratory housekeeping and supervision of laboratories following necessary training
• Record and provide data, perform analysis as necessary to meet project targets and for preparation of presentations and publications.
• Ensure that the project operates to a high scientific standard
• Liaise with external/internal collaborators about data, reports and publications
• Undertake all assigned work in accordance with UKHSA's Risk Management Systems, policies and procedures
• 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 Code of Safety Practice and to work within any Quality Systems that are applicable to the site
• To comply with all UKHSA’s policies and procedures

Please note this list is not exhaustive.

Working for your organisation

We pride ourselves as being an employer of choice, where Everyone Matters promoting equality of opportunity to actively encourage applications from everyone, including groups currently underrepresented in our workforce.

UKHSA ethos is to be an inclusive organisation for all our staff and stakeholders. To create, nurture and sustain an inclusive culture, where differences drive innovative solutions to meet the needs of our workforce and wider communities. We do this through celebrating and protecting differences by removing barriers and promoting equity and equality of opportunity for all.

Please visit our careers site for more information https://gov.uk/ukhsa/careers

Person specification

Essential role criteria:

• Degree level educated in Biological Science or equivalent relevant experience of working in a laboratory
• Prior experience within a ACDP CL2 research laboratory
• Prior experience of working within a team
• Experience of individual research projects
• Experience of working within a regulated environment (e.g. ISO 9001)

Desirable role criteria:

• Prior laboratory experience working with serological platforms such as Luminex, MSD or Roche
• Prior experience in working within a team involved in public health incident and responses

Benefits

Alongside your salary of £33,422, UK Health Security Agency contributes £9,682 towards you being a member of the Civil Service Defined Benefit Pension scheme. Find out what benefits a Civil Service Pension provides (opens in a new window).

• Learning and development tailored to your role
• An environment with flexible working options
• A culture encouraging inclusion and diversity
• A Civil Service pension with an employer contribution of 28.97%

Things you need to know

Artificial intelligence

Artificial intelligence can be a useful tool to support your application, however, all examples and statements provided must be truthful, factually accurate and taken directly from your own experience. Where plagiarism has been identified (presenting the ideas and experiences of others, or generated by artificial intelligence, as your own) applications may be withdrawn and internal candidates may be subject to disciplinary action. Please see our candidate guidance (opens in a new window) for more information on appropriate and inappropriate use.

Selection process details

This vacancy is using Success Profiles and will assess your Experience, Behaviours, Strengths, and Technical skills.

Stage 1: Application & Sift
Success Profiles - GOV.UK

You will be required to complete an application form. You will be assessed on the listed 5 essential criteria, and this will be in the form of a:

• Application form (‘Employer/ Activity history’ section on the application)
• 750 word supporting statement

This should outline how you consider your skills, experience and knowledge provide evidence of your suitability for the role, with reference to the essential criteria.

You will receive a joint score for your application form and statement. (Please note you will not be able to upload your CV. You must complete the application form in as much detail as possible. Please do not email us your CV).

Healthjobs UK has a word limit of 1500, but your supporting statement must be no more than 750 words. Please do not exceed 750 words.

Longlisting: In the event of a large number of applications we will longlist into 3 piles of:

1. Meets all essential criteria

1. Meets some essential criteria

1. Meets no essential criteria

If used, the pile ‘Meets all essential criteria’ will proceed to shortlisting.

Shortlisting: In the event of a large number of applications we will conduct an initial sift, on the lead criteria of:

• Experience of working within a regulated environment (e.g. ISO 9001)
• Degree level educated in Biological Science or equivalent relevant experience of working in a laboratory

Desirable criteria may be used in the event of a large number of applications/large amount of successful candidates.

If you are successful at this stage, you will progress to interview.

Feedback will not be provided at this stage.

Stage 2: Interview
Success Profiles - GOV.UK

You will be invited to a face to face interview in Porton. In exceptional circumstances, we may be able to offer a remote interview. Behaviours, Strengths and Technical skills will be tested at interview. The Behaviours tested during the interview stage will be:

• Seeing the Big Picture
• Working together(lead behaviour)
• Changing and Improving

Technical skills will be assessed by Technical based questions. Strengths will be assessed v