Principal Scientist Immunochemistry
The closing date is 14 December 2025
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We are currently looking for a Principal Scientist – Immunochemistry to join our Control Testing Function within the Scientific Research and Innovation group. This is a full‑time opportunity, on a permanent basis. The role will be based in South Mimms, Hertfordshire. Please be aware that this role can only be worked in the UK and not overseas.
Main duties of the job
The role will provide expert scientific direction and line management to a team of analytical scientists focused on immunochemical assays used for the characterisation of biological medicines to deliver the Agency’s independent control testing function. The Immunochemistry team will perform a range of analytical techniques including, but not limited to ELISA‑based assays, immunodiffusion, immunoblotting and antibody‑based multiplex assays.
This is an exciting opportunity to apply scientific expertise and develop leadership and management skills to support the timely supply of safe and effective vaccines and blood products to patients. The postholder will also contribute to the strategic planning for the Control Testing function within the S&R Group.
Key responsibilities
* Ensure analytical assays are performed in compliance with ISO17025, including assay development, validation and troubleshooting.
* Manage the day‑to‑day implementation and delivery of improvements in patient outcomes through organisation of resources, process improvement and changes in working practice, including training and innovative assay development.
* Advise and supervise training of staff in specific assays and administration of control testing.
* Engage with stakeholders, as required by the team lead, including colleagues across the Agency and other National Control Laboratories and manufacturers to ensure quality of service and patient access to medicines.
About us
The Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency enhance and improve the health of millions of people every day through the effective regulation of medicines and medical devices, underpinned by science and research.
The role sits within the Control Testing team in the Scientific Research function of the MHRA.
The Control Testing team delivers the statutory function of independent control testing of biological medicines, including blood products and vaccines, helping to ensure patients have access to new and existing products.
Who are we looking for?
Our successful candidate will demonstrate the following.
* Extensive experience of working within ISO17025 quality management system.
* Extensive experience of one or more of the laboratory methods listed in the job description.
* Extensive experience of using a LIMS.
* Ability to create a professional collaborative environment to motivate staff and effectively respond to change.
* Engage with a wide variety of stakeholders, using clear communication to foster collaboration, deliver expert services, training, scientific and technical advice.
Person Specification
Method of assessment: A=Application, T=Test, I=Interview, P=Presentation
Behaviour Criteria:
* Working Together (A, I)
* Communicating and Influencing (A, I)
Experience Criteria:
* Experience with audit and inspection under quality management systems and management of outcomes. (A, I)
* Extensive experience of using CT‑LIMS; analysing large complex data sets, including suitable statistical analysis. (A, I)
* Experience of managing and training analytical staff. (A, I)
Technical Criteria:
* Expertise in one or more of the following: ELISA‑based assays, immunodiffusion, immunoblotting and antibody‑based multiplex assays. (A)
Strengths Criteria
* Team Player (I)
If you would like to find out more about this fantastic opportunity, please read our Job Description and Person Specification!
Disclosure and Barring Service Check
This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.
Employer name
Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency
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