Location: Porton Down, Salisbury - please note this is an on-site role with no hybrid working option
Salary: Civil Service HEO (Higher Executive Officer) £33,422 - £40,731 per annum, pro rata
Contract: Permanent
Job summary
The Diagnostics and Pathogen Characterisation (DPC) Division is based at Porton and has approximately 150 staff, focusing on key initial steps in the control of infections, namely pathogen identification, characterisation, and development of diagnostics. The Virology and Pathogenesis and Pathogen Characterisation (VPPC) group sits in the DPC Division within Science Group.
VPPC’s work focuses on arboviruses, viral haemorrhagic fevers and other emerging zoonotic viruses which cause infections in humans and pose a significant risk to public health. The group’s activity corresponds with the institute’s status as a WHO Collaborating Centre for virus research and reference (special pathogens) and ranges from the development of diagnostics and surveillance through to the assessment of interventions and vaccines. As such multiple international links and networks are part of its remit. We currently have an exciting opportunity within the Virology and Pathogenesis Group where we are seeking to appoint a scientist with previous molecular virology experience.
The successful candidates will be joining a dynamic team of scientists dedicated to improving public health through the development of innovative virology programmes.
The post holder will work as part of a specialist laboratory team, contributing to the delivery of high-quality molecular virology activities in support of public health objectives. The role requires a strong scientific background and the ability to apply a range of molecular techniques accurately and reliably within a regulated environment.
The successful candidate will hold a degree in an appropriate scientific discipline such as virology or molecular biology and experience in a relevant field.
They will have hands on experience of using a variety of molecular methods, for example RT qPCR and LAMP for pathogen detection and will demonstrate knowledge and/or practical experience of developing and validating molecular assays.
A high standard of record keeping and close attention to detail are essential, alongside experience of working within regulated environments and an understanding of quality standards such as UKAS and/or ISO.
Previous experience in a similar role within the public sector is desirable. The role requires the ability to contribute effectively to projects, demonstrating evidence of efficient and effective participation. The post holder will be expected to work on their own initiative, organising and prioritising their workload with minimal supervision while meeting tight and frequently changing deadlines.
Strong teamworking skills are essential, with the ability to liaise and communicate effectively with colleagues at all levels. The successful candidate will be an effective organiser who shows a clear commitment to improving performance and making a positive difference by focusing on agreed goals and outcomes. An understanding of, and commitment to, equality of opportunity and the promotion of good working relationships is an essential requirement of the role.
The main duties will include
* Develop, implement and utilise a range of molecular techniques in support of pathogen detection and characterisation activities, to ensure that project targets are met.
* Take responsibility for the provision of reagents and consumables required for the project area. Produce data for review by Senior Scientists for input into reports.
* Provide reports through analysis of data using software and databases as necessary, for preparation of presentations and publications.
* Present data at internal group meetings and national/international conferences.
* Lead in laboratory supervision, ensuring appropriate equipment is available and calibrated. Perform any other duties required by the Line manager commensurate with grade.
* Undertake work in accordance with applicable UKHSA Safety and Quality systems.
* Maintain health and safety competence.
* Fulfil the requirements of UKHSA Values and the Civil Service Code.
* Comply with all UKHSA policies and procedures.
Person specification
* Degree in an appropriate discipline such as virology or molecular biology (or equivalent qualification)
* Experience of using molecular methods for pathogen detection (eg RT-qPCR, LAMP)
* Experience in nucleic acid extraction methods for downstream molecular assays
* Good record keeping, attention to detail
* Experience of working in a regulated environment and knowledge of UKAS and/or ISO quality standards
* Ability to work on own initiative and organise own workload without supervision working to tight and often changing timescales
* Knowledge of how to develop and validate new and existing molecular assays for pathogen detection and characterisation
* Experience of developing and validating molecular assays for pathogen detection and characterisation
* Experience of using bioinformatic software to design and troubleshoot molecular assays Experience of collaboration across other work groups
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