Job Overview
The United Kingdom Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is a national health security agency working to protect the UK from infectious disease and other health threats. The Pre‑clinical Evaluation Team is part of the Countermeasures Development, Evaluation, and Preparedness Division (CDEP) at Porton Down, London, and focuses on high‑consequence human pathogens. The team designs and applies in‑vivo model systems, assays for vaccine testing, and organ‑on‑chip technology to advance counter‑measure development.
Responsibilities
* Lead the implementation of organ‑on‑chip models for the study of severe human infections and the efficacy of candidate therapeutics.
* Direct the delivery of in‑vivo studies and ensure high scientific quality.
* Develop and validate assays to measure immunogenicity and efficacy across in‑vivo studies.
* Lead own projects and provide contribution to cross‑team and external collaborative projects.
* Supervise and support junior staff, ensuring training, development, and safety compliance.
* Maintain adherence to UKHSA’s Code of Safety Practice, quality systems, and risk assessment procedures.
Qualifications
* PhD (or equivalent) in virology, cell biology, immunology or a related field.
* Demonstrated expertise in virology, immunology, and cell biology techniques, specifically assessment of cellular immunity.
* Strong experience with virology/in‑virology assays and flow cytometry.
* Experience working with primary cells on transwells or organ‑on‑chip devices, and in‑vivo models of infectious disease.
* Ability to develop and troubleshoot virology / immunological assays.
* Experience leading scientific projects and training staff in regulated environments (GCP, ISO).
* Excellent written and verbal communication, documentation, organisation and attention to detail.
* Strong analytical skills, ability to prioritise workload, make effective decisions and motivate a team.
* Willingness to work in a containment Level 3 (ADCP) environment or to attain competency.
* Desirable: experience with organ‑on‑chip technology, ex‑vivo 3D culture, complex data analysis and networking with external partners.
Benefits
* Defined benefit pension scheme with employer contributions.
* Cycle‑to‑work salary sacrifice scheme, season ticket advances and payroll giving.
* Discounts and cashback through a retail partner programme.
* Flexible working patterns (part‑time, job‑share, condensed hours).
* Generous maternity, paternity, and adoption leave package.
* Access to the National Biosecurity Centre and other cutting‑edge facilities.
Security Clearance: Applicants must obtain Security Clearance (SC) and meet UK residency requirements of at least five years. Applicants lacking the required residency may need to contact the Recruiter for advice.
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