The United Kingdom Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is a system leader for health security; taking action internationally to strengthen global health security, providing trusted advice to government and the public and reducing inequalities in the way different communities experience and are impacted by infectious disease, environmental hazards, and other threats to health. UKHSA’s remit, as an agency with a global-to-local reach, is to protect the health of the nation from infectious diseases and other external threats to health. As the nation’s expert national health security agency UKHSA will: Prevent: anticipate threats to health and help build the nation’s readiness, defences and health security Detect: use cutting edge environmental and biological surveillance to proactively detect and monitor infectious diseases and threats to health Analyse: use world-class science and data analytics to assess and continually monitor threats to health, identifying how best to control and mitigate the risks Respond: take rapid, collaborative and effective actions nationally and locally to mitigate threats to health when they materialise Lead: lead strong and sustainable global, national, regional and local partnerships designed to save lives, protect the nation from public health threats and reduce inequalities. Job overview THE UK PUBLIC HEALTH RAPID SUPPORT TEAM (UK-PHRST) The UK-PHRST is an innovative government-academic partnership funded by the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) and co-led by UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM), with a consortium of academic and implementing partners in the UK and internationally. Launched in 2016, the UK-PHSRT is comprised of a multidisciplinary team of public health professionals and researchers with a novel integrated triple-remit of outbreak response, research and capacity strengthening to prevent and control epidemics of infectious diseases in countries eligible for UK Official Development Assistance (ODA). The UK-PHRST has the following objectives Support partners in low- and middle- income countries (LMICs) to prepare for, prevent, detect, and respond rapidly to disease outbreaks, with the aim of stopping a public health threat from becoming a health emergency Identify research questions with partners and deliver rigorous research with partners that improves the evidence base for best practice in disease outbreak prevention, detection, and response in LMICs Support the strengthening of in-country capacity for an improved and rapid national response to prepare for, prevent, detect, and respond to disease outbreaks Advert The Public Health Microbiologist post will support the UK-PHRST Microbiology Lead to deliver the operational diagnostics, research, and capacity development objectives to Official Development Assistance-eligible (ODA) countries. The post-holder will work within the UK-PHRST Microbiology team at UKHSA. As a member of the Core Deployable Team, the post will be required to deploy for outbreak response or to advise on the provision of public health microbiology services directly, or through WHO, to the Ministries of Health in ODA Countries. The post holder will develop and manage a robust research and capacity strengthening portfolio, in alignment with UK-PHRST strategic goals across its triple remit. The post-holder should expect to spend up to 40 percent of their time overseas. Successful overseas operations are dependent on good team dynamics; effective communication skills will be needed to support team function and to maintain and develop good working relations with multiple partners both in the UK and overseas. Working for our 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 Detailed job description and main responsibilities PUBLIC HEALTH MICROBIOLOGY Responsible for advising on the provision of public health microbiology services directly, or through WHO, to the Ministries of Health in ODA Countries including development of policies, planning and implementation strategies for laboratory services during outbreak responses. Support or lead the implementation of laboratory improvement and training programmes in ODA countries. Act as a scientific expert for diagnostic microbiology pathways and techniques between UK-PHRST and stakeholders during outbreak response, research, and capacity strengthening projects. Support the Microbiology Lead with the continuous development of the necessary mobile laboratory capabilities required for outbreak preparedness. During deployments of the UK-PHRST mobile laboratory, act as team lead responsible for the provision of diagnostic services in line with the processes and protocols authorized by the Microbiology Lead. Ensure that all activities across the mobile lab deployment cycle are conducted in adherence to the WHO Minimum Operational Standards and Typology for Rapid Response Mobile Laboratories. Responsible for the line management of the UK-PHRST Outbreak Response Scientist (SEO). Perform any other duties required by the Microbiology Lead. RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT Support the development and implementation of a robust and dynamic research and capacity strengthening portfolio with ODA eligible partners, harnessing new and innovative techniques and platforms, in line with the strategy as defined by the Microbiology Lead. Actively network in the research and capacity strengthening community (both at LSHTM, UKHSA and beyond) to identify and develop potential areas of collaboration. Ensure that the assigned research projects are appropriately coordinated, and in line with UK-PHRST goals. Secure UK and overseas ethical approval via LSHTM or UKHSA Ethics applications and ensure compliance with relevant regulatory requirements for all projects. Contribute to the expansion of regional and in-country capability through training, coaching and research dissemination, in line with requirements outlined by partners and relevant international and regional public health organisations. Develop and nurture key relationships with a wide range of individuals and stakeholders as required for role. GENERAL MANAGEMENT Together with the Public Health Microbiologist Genomics) and the wider Microbiology team, contribute to the day-to-day operational management of UK-PHRST mobile laboratory, including HR matters such as recruitment, career development and discipline. To ensure that the UKHSA’s standing financial instructions, professional standards of conduct and other UKHSA policies and procedures, including health and safety, are observed. Using analytical and judgement skills, to take a leading role in planning and formulating strategy as applied to business and action plans, equipment and facilities associated with all projects assigned by the Microbiology Lead. Ensure the allocated UK-PHRST Microbiology programmes/projects/initiatives maintain momentum through robust and effective management (flagging-up potential issues and proactively troubleshooting where possible). To ensure confidentiality and conformity with the requirements of the UK General Data Protection Regulation and Data Protection Act. Where appropriate, contribute to team discussions aimed at creating and delivering innovative approaches enhancing the effectiveness of the Microbiology work for UK-PHRST. PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT Pursue a programme of continuous professional development in accordance with any relevant professional registration or statutory requirements. Undergo mandatory pre-deployment training and other appropriate training courses as required by members of the UK-PHRST Core Deployable team Maintain professional credibility, autonomy, and accountability in line with professional code of conduct. HEALTH & SAFETY Ensure health, safety and welfare are afforded priorities. Be responsible for all aspects of health, safety and welfare of self, staff, and visitors including attendance of self and staff on safety training courses in line with the UKHSA Health and Safety Training Policy and other safety policies as appropriate. Ensure that all relevant UKHSA health and safety policies are implemented. Ensure that risk assessments are carried out and reviewed for all new and existing work and that controls are implemented, monitored, and maintained. Escalate risks that cannot be controlled to the Microbiology Lead/ UK-PHRST leadership as required. FINANCIAL Ensure compliance with ODA requirements in all UK-PHRST Microbiology activities. Comply with the Microbiology team requirements for budgetary tracking as instructed by the Microbiology Lead (budget manager), the UK-PHRST Finance team and the UK-PHRST Programme Manager (budget holder). Produce financial information, KPIs and business cases, as required. Essential Criteria Relevant higher degree (i.e., MSc or PhD in Microbiology/Virology/Molecular Biology/Immunology) or equivalent level of experience working at a similar level. Significant experience of working with clinical samples and diagnostic testing for a wide range of pathogens (inc. biocontainment work at CL3/4) using an array of molecular and serological assays. Demonstrates experience and understanding of work within a regulated environment (e.g., ISO 15189). Experience of working with partners based in low- and middle-income countries or experience of working on previous infectious disease outbreaks. Experience in policy development, planning and management of microbiology / virology services and facilities. Evidence of successful leadership in relation to managing teams and networks of external stakeholders both in the UK and overseas. Adept at problem solving though analysis of complex information and situations to deliver solutions to practical problems in laboratory workflows and workloads. Able to communicate complex and sensitive information, negotiate difficult issues with senior stakeholders and present to large and influential audiences. An understanding of and commitment to equality of opportunity and good working relationships, but also in relation to management systems and working with multi-ethnic and multi-cultural teams. Desirable Criteria Experience in various managerial fields, including finance, HR, business, project management, planning, procurement etc. Track record of publications and submitting proposals to promote and develop research areas. Experience of designing and delivering training modules. Ability to communicate (speak/read) at a working level in other languages, such as French, Portuguese, and/or Arabic. Selection Process: This vacancy will be assessed using a competency-based framework which will assess your qualifications, knowledge and experience and/or skills and abilities outlined in the essential criteria. Stage 1: Application & Sift You will be required to complete an application form and will be assessed on the listed 9 essential criteria. This will be in the form of a: Application form (‘Employer/ Activity history’ section on the application) Up to 1500 word supporting statement. This should outline how your skills, experience and knowledge provide evidence of your suitability for the role, with reference to the essential criteria. The Application form and supporting statement will be marked together. Longlisting: In the event of a large number of applications we will longlist into 3 piles of: Meets all essential criteria Meets some essential criteria Meets no essential criteria The pile 'meets all essential criteria' will proceed to shortlisting. 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 & assessment. Feedback will not be provided at this stage. Stage 2: Interview Competency-based You will be invited to a remote interview. Knowledge, experience, skills & abilities will be tested at interview. Interviews dates to be confirmed. Once this job has closed, the job advert will no longer be available. You may want to save a copy for your records. Selection Process 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. Eligibility Criteria External: Open to all external applicants (anyone) from outside the Civil Service (including by definition internal applicants). Location This role is being offered as hybrid working based at our Scientific Campus in Porton Down. We offer great flexible working opportunities at UKHSA and operate using a hybrid working model where business needs allow. This provides us with greater flexibility about how and where we work, to get the best from our workforce. As a hybrid worker, you will be expected to spend a minimum of 60% of your contractual working hours (approximately 3 days a week pro rata, averaged over a month) at our Scientific Campus in Porton Down. Security Clearance Level Requirement Successful candidates must pass a disclosure and barring security check. If based at one of our scientific campuses, you will be required to have a minimum of a Counter Terrorism Check (CTC) with willingness and capability to work towards Security Check (SC) clearance. You should normally have been resident in the United Kingdom for the last 3 years to obtain CTC and 5 years to obtain Security Check (SC) clearance. UK residency less than the outlined periods may not necessarily bar you from gaining national security vetting at this higher level and applicants should contact the Vacancy Holder / Recruiting Manager listed in the advert for further advice. IMPORTANT - PLEASE READ Artificial Intelligence (AI) 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 for more information on appropriate and inappropriate use. Link below: Artificial intelligence and recruitment | Civil Service Careers This is a Non-Reserved post under the Civil Service Nationality Rules. To be eligible for employment in the UK Civil Service applicants must meet the Civil Service Nationality Rules (CSNRs) which operate independently of and additionally to the Immigration Rules. Applicants must also meet necessary security and vetting requirements, along with any other relevant pre-employment checks. This job is broadly open to the following groups: UK nationals nationals of the Republic of Ireland nationals of Commonwealth countries who have the right to work in the UK nationals of the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein and family members of those nationalities with settled or pre-settled status under the European Union Settlement Scheme (EUSS) (opens in a new window) nationals of the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein and family members of those nationalities who have made a valid application for settled or pre-settled status under the European Union Settlement Scheme (EUSS) individuals with limited leave to remain or indefinite leave to remain who were eligible to apply for EUSS on or before 31 December 2020 Turkish nationals, and certain family members of Turkish nationals, who have accrued the right to work in the Civil Service For more information on job nationality requirements and the right to work in the UK, see the Civil Service Nationality rules (opens in a new window) and the UK Visas and Immigration rules (opens in a new window) For posts on UKHSA Civil Service terms and conditions, new entrants to the Civil Service are expected to start on the minimum of the pay band. For existing Civil Servants and roles advertised across government, the rules of transfer apply, i.e., level transfers move on current salary or the pay range minimum, transfers on promotion move to new pay range minimum or receive a 10% increase. Either case is determined by whichever is the highest. The Civil Service pay structure and progression is different from NHS Agenda for Change (AfC), most local authority pay grades and other systems that have annual pay increments. For further details, please refer to the Information Sheet- Starting Salaries & Benefits attachment. For AfC or Medical/Dental posts, you must have the correct professional registration to be appointed. The pay will follow the AfC or Medical & Dental terms & conditions. You may be asked to provide evidence of previous service whilst we are conducting pre-employment checks to determine your starting salary. For Temporary Appointments, if you are not currently a civil servant, you will take up the post on a Fixed Term appointment. You may be able to take this role up as a Secondment. If you are an existing Civil Servant, based outside of the UKHSA, you will take up the post as a loan which you will need your department to agree. You cannot take the post up as a fixed term. If you are an existing UKHSA member of staff, you will take up the post as either a level transfer or a temporary promotion as per the UKHSA’s Pay policy. Given the nature of the work of the UKHSA, as a Category 1 responder under the Civil Contingencies Act, you may be required in an emergency, if deemed a necessity, to redeploy to another role at short notice. You may also be required to work at any other location, within reasonable travelling distance of your permanent home address, in line with the provisions set out in your contract of employment. Late Applications will unfortunately not be considered. Working for the Civil Service The Civil Service Code (opens in a new window) sets out the standards of behaviour expected of civil servants. We recruit by merit on the basis of fair and open competition, as outlined in the Civil Service Commission's recruitment principles (opens in a new window). The Civil Service embraces diversity and promotes equality of opportunity. The law requires that selection for appointment to the Civil Service is on merit on the basis of fair and open competition, as outlined in the Civil Service Commission's Recruitment Principles. If you feel your application has not been treated in accordance with the Recruitment Principles, and you wish to make a complaint, in the first instance, you should contact UKHSA Public Accountability Unit via email: [email protected] If you are not satisfied with the response you receive from the Department, you can contact the Civil Service Commission: Visit the Civil Service Commission website here. Reserve List - If more than the required number of suitable candidates pass the interview criteria, you may be kept on a reserve list for 12 months subject to your agreement. You may be contacted, in merit-order, if similar roles with closely matching essential criteria become available and the department choose to appoint from a reserve list. The panel will assess if candidates meet the requirement of the role first, using a specific benchmark system. If you are interviewed for the post and do not meet the required threshold for the specified grade, your application may be assessed against a similar, lower grade role and you may be offered the post should one be available. Interview expenses will not be reimbursed. UKHSA is required to check employment and/or education history covering three consecutive years. Please ensure you give details of at least two different referees, even if you were employed in one company for three years or more. If you are offered a job, information will also be transferred into the national NHS Electronic Staff Records system. Please note, all communication regarding your application will be made via email, please ensure you check your junk/spam folders as emails are sometimes filtered there. Any move to UKHSA from another employer will mean you can no longer access childcare vouchers. This includes moves between government departments. You may however be eligible for other government schemes, including Tax-Free Childcare. Determine your eligibility at https://www.childcarechoices.gov.uk/. Benefits of working at UKHSA include: Generous annual leave: -26 days for the first 5 years of continuous service -28 days after 5 years of continuous service -32 days after 10 years of continuous service -Plus public holidays and one privilege day for the King’s birthday Access to a generous Defined Benefit pension scheme with employer contributions. Access to a cycle-to-work salary sacrifice scheme, season ticket advances and payroll giving. Access to a retail discounts and cashback site. We also promote flexible working patterns (part-time, job-share, condensed hours). UKHSA views flexible working as essential in enabling us to recruit and retain talented people, ensuring that they are able to enjoy a long-lasting career with us. All employees have the right to apply for flexible working and there are a range of options available including working from home, compressed hours and job sharing. We also offer a generous maternity/ paternity and adoption leave package. Hybrid Working UKHSA operates a hybrid working model where business needs allow. This provides us with greater flexibility about how and where we work, to get the best from our workforce. As a hybrid worker, you will usually spend a minimum of 60% of your contracted hours (averaged over a month) working at one of UKHSA's locations (approximately 3 days a week pro rata) and the rest of your time working from home. Disability Confident Scheme The Civil Service embraces diversity and promotes equal opportunities. As such, we run a Disability Confident Scheme for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum selection criteria at sift to ensure these candidates are invited to interview. If you wish to be included in this scheme please tick the box on your application form. Reasonable Adjustments The Civil Service is committed to making sure that our selection methods are fair to everyone. To help you during the recruitment process, we will take into account any reasonable adjustments that could help you. An adjustment is a change to the recruitment process or an adjustment at work. This is separate to the Disability Confident Scheme. If you need an adjustment to be made at any point during the recruitment process you should: Contact the recruitment team in confidence as soon as possible to discuss your needs. You can find out more information about reasonable adjustments across the Civil Service here: https://www.civil-service-careers.gov.uk/reasonable-adjustments/ International Police Check If you have spent more than 6 months abroad over the last 3 years you may need an International Police Check. This would not necessarily have to be in a single block, and could be time accrued over that period. Internal Fraud check If successful for this role as one aspect of pre-employment screening, applicant’s personal details – name, national insurance number and date of birth - will be checked against the Cabinet Office Internal Fraud Hub and anyone included on the database will be refused employment unless they can show exceptional circumstances. Currently this is only for External candidates to the Civil Service. Security Vetting Please check the Security Clearance needed for the role and follow the link for more information: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/united-kingdom-security-vetting-clearance-levels/national-security-vetting-clearance-levels Future location UKHSA is investing in a new state-of-the-art National Biosecurity Centre in Harlow, Essex, which will eventually bring together teams currently based at Canary Wharf, Colindale and Porton Down. For more details, please see: Huge biosecurity centre investment to boost pandemic protection - GOV.UK. The new facilities will start becoming operational in the mid-2030s, with full completion by 2038. Staff will move in phases as facilities become available. If you're appointed to a role currently based at Canary Wharf, Colindale or Porton Down, please note that we'll continue investing in these sites for the next decade. As we get closer to the transition, we'll provide full information about relocation support available to staff.