Job Title: Senior Diagnostic Lab Analyst
Location: PHARMAQ Analytiq UK Ltd, Inverness, UK
About PHARMAQ Analytiq UK Ltd:
PHARMAQ Analytiq UK Ltd, part of Zoetis, is a leader in innovative diagnostic solutions for the aquaculture industry. Based in Inverness, our facility is dedicated to advancing the health and welfare of farmed fish through high-quality molecular, histopathology, and microbiology diagnostic services. We are committed to excellence in safety, compliance, and environmental stewardship.
Job Summary:
We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Diagnostic Analyst to lead our bacteriology diagnostics and oversee Environmental, Health, Safety, and Quality (EHSQ) within our diagnostic department. The successful candidate will ensure that our laboratories operate safely, comply with all regulatory requirements, and deliver accurate, reliable diagnostic results.
Key Responsibilities
Microbiology Laboratory Management
* Oversee daily operations of the microbiology laboratory, including processing samples for bacterial pathogens and providing high-quality bacteriology reports for fish samples submitted via our online health portal, iWISE.
* Ensure accurate identification, characterization, and documentation of fish pathogens using both conventional and molecular techniques.
* Extract and archive gDNA for molecular identification and sequencing of bacterial pathogens.
* Maintain laboratory equipment, oversee maintenance schedules, and ensure proper calibration.
* Ensure availability and preparation of reagents and bacteriology media for both laboratory and customer use.
* Maintain bacterial culture stocks and update the bacterial strain biobank.
* Train and mentor laboratory staff, trainees, and visitors, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement.
Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) Management
* Develop, implement, and monitor comprehensive EHS policies and procedures to ensure laboratory safety and regulatory compliance.
* Conduct regular EHS audits, risk assessments, and safety inspections; identify and mitigate potential hazards.
* Ensure compliance with relevant standards (GLP, EHS regulations), and prepare for external audits in collaboration with the Head of Diagnostics.
* Oversee waste management, including safe disposal of biohazardous materials and adherence to environmental best practices.
* Provide training and support to staff on EHS protocols, emergency procedures, and best laboratory practices.
* Facilitate review and updates of EHS and quality risk assessments, keeping the team informed of potential hazards and mitigation strategies.
Quality Control Management
* Oversee daily operations of the quality management system (VIS), ensuring continual improvement and alignment with company needs.
* Implement and manage quality control measures for all diagnostic procedures to ensure accuracy, reproducibility, and reliability.
* Integrate Quality Management System (QMS) requirements into daily laboratory operations.
* Participate in the implementation and enforcement of EHSQ protocols within the laboratory.
* Develop, review, and maintain SOPs and other documentation for laboratory processes.
* Analyse quality control data, identify trends or deviations, and implement corrective actions as needed.
* Prepare detailed reports and documentation for internal quality assurance and external regulatory bodies.
* Lead maintenance of the company's ISO 9001:2015 certification through meticulous record-keeping and adherence to standards.
* Serve as the central contact for EHSQ concerns, collaborating with the Head of Diagnostics to address issues effectively.
* Ensure compliance with legal regulations and industry best practices in quality.
* Deliver training and coaching sessions on quality topics to empower colleagues.
* Monitor and report company Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) related to quality to management.
* Support senior management in investigating quality incidents, ensuring proper documentation and timely reporting to authorities.
Staff Support and Collaboration
* Participate in the diagnostic team cross-training program to support other laboratory staff, including PCR and histopathology teams.
Required Qualifications and Skills
* MSc in Microbiology, Veterinary Science, Aquatic animal Health, or a related field. BSc holders with significant laboratory experience will also be considered.
* At least 2–3 years of experience in a microbiology laboratory, preferably with a focus on fish health or aquaculture.
* Demonstrated capability in EHSQ management, including development and implementation of safety and compliance protocols.
* Strong knowledge of bacteriological techniques, including culture methods, identification of bacterial cultures, molecular diagnostics (e.g., PCR, sequencing), recovery and preservation of bacterial cultures, and antimicrobial susceptibility testing.
* In-depth understanding of relevant regulatory standards (e.g., GLP, EHSQ) and experience with audits.
* Excellent leadership, organizational, and communication skills.
* Proficiency with laboratory information management systems (LIMS) and data analysis tools.
* High level of English proficiency.
Desirable Skills:
* PhD in a relevant specialty (an advantage, but not mandatory).
* Previous experience in a histopathology and PCR laboratories is beneficial.
* Certification in EHS or quality management systems (e.g., NEBOSH, ISO 9001, ISO
Work Hours: Full-time, 37 hours per week.
Benefits:
* Competitive salary and benefits package, including pension, healthcare, dental care, and other attractive offerings (details available upon request).
* Opportunities for professional growth and career development.
* Collaborative and dynamic work environment.
* 25.5 days of annual leave.
Application Process:
Interested candidates should submit the following documents as a single PDF:
Curriculum Vitae. Cover letter outlining relevant experience and motivation for applying. Contact details of three referees.
PHARMAQ Analytiq UK Ltd is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applications from all qualified individuals, regardless of race, gender, disability, or other protected characteristics.
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