The Tuberculosis (TB) Technical Lead is responsible for managing all TB serology testing at Starcross Veterinary Investigation Centre (VIC) EX6 8PE, overseeing the throughput of testing and development work while upholding quality and safety standards.
Responsibilities
* Manage all TB serology testing activities at APHA Starcross.
* Process, report, and manage results for samples submitted for TB serology testing.
* Carry out serum sample testing for TB antibodies using ELISA, Enferplex (Chemiluminescence Immunoassay) and Dual Path Platform (DPP) technology.
* Act as Test Consultant for selected serological tests as required.
* Provide support in other TB testing areas, including at Containment Level 3 (CL3).
Training
* Maintain a training programme for scientific staff, referencing the succession plan and arranging training as required.
* Update the succession plan when training is complete and competence is signed off.
Technical
* Provide technical support for all TB serology testing activities at Starcross, including maintenance of the TB serology SharePoint calendar.
* Monitor and maintain reagents and consumables for all TB serology tests.
* Keep up to date with literature and policies/regulations that enhance current TB testing regimes, and share findings with colleagues.
* Handle technical troubleshooting, test development, improvement, and validation.
* Develop and maintain strong collaborative links with other scientists within and outside APHA.
* Assist with technical cover to the TB test manager(s) as required.
* Keep relevant managers and disease consultants updated as needed.
* Provide assistance and technical support to other laboratory areas as required.
* Collate and monitor External Quality Assurance (EQA), Internal Quality Control (IQC) and test performance data.
* Build expertise in TB serology methods and give feedback on testing outcomes to management and Species Experts.
* Attend or prepare briefings for local management meetings.
* Promote TB serology testing and expertise within APHA and external institutions as required.
Quality
* Ensure testing processes comply with ISO17025 quality standards by maintaining SOPs, logbooks, calibration records, Non-Conforming Work (NCW) investigations, Uncertainty of Measurement (UoM), EQA, IQC documentation and participating in audits as required.
Accommodation
* Take appropriate action to resolve equipment damage, faults or failures, and arrange servicing/calibration as required.
Safety
* Comply with APHA’s Health and Safety Policy, standards and guidance, and risk assessments.
* Ensure all testing processes align with agency safety policies and procedures, maintaining appropriate risk assessments.
* Undertake twice yearly Health and Safety ‘Supervision & Monitoring’ of staff within areas of responsibility.
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