About the role
The Moredun Research Institute is recruiting a new manager for our Viral Surveillance Unit (VSU). The post requires you to hold a Degree in Veterinary Medicine along with Membership of the Royal College of Veterinary surgeons (or eligibility for membership) and will ensure delivery of high-quality diagnostic and disease surveillance services to stakeholders, including the Scottish livestock community and the Scottish Government.
This is a rare opportunity to manage a specialist research laboratory, support national surveillance programmes and to build, and deliver on, a cutting-edge research programme.
Key Responsibilities
1. Lead and manage the Virus Surveillance Unit, delivering accurate and timely diagnostic services.
2. Develop, validate and implement novel diagnostic tests to address emerging disease threats.
3. Manage a laboratory in accordance with ISO9002 and Health & Safety standards and act as the LIMS administrator for the VSU and Pathology Unit.
4. Supervise a team of staff including one laboratory manager and two research assistants.
5. Deliver research aligned with the RESAS Strategic Research Programme and secure external funding.
6. Represent the organisation at scientific events and engage in active knowledge exchange.
The successful candidate will be forward-thinking, combining scientific excellence with strong leadership and communication skills. You will thrive in a fast-paced environment with an exciting blend of disease surveillance, stakeholder interaction and innovation. You will join a respected, collaborative and highly skilled scientific team at the forefront of animal disease research and diagnostics. We offer professional development opportunities, an inclusive culture and the chance to make a meaningful impact on animal health, welfare and agricultural policy in Scotland.
Experience required
7. Hold a degree in Veterinary Medicine and be eligible for membership of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS).
8. Significant experience in virology, microbiology and veterinary diagnostics.
9. Strong track record in project design, grant writing and delivery of externally funded research.
10. Proven team management, leadership and mentoring experience.
11. Familiarity with LIMS and ISO/quality assurance procedures
Desirable Experience:
12. PhD in microbiology, virology or biotechnology.
13. Experience in the development of molecular and serological diagnostic tests.
14. Experience in animal disease surveillance.