Current jobs related to Higher Scientist - Potters Bar, Hertfordshire - UK Civil Service

Job Summary

We are currently searching for a Higher Scientist focusing on Molecular and Immunochemistry to join our Control Testing team within the Science, Research & Innovation group.

This is a full-time opportunity, on a permanent basis. The role will be lab-based in South Mimms, Hertfordshire. Please note that this role is restricted to the UK and cannot be carried out overseas.

Who Are We?

The Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency enhances and boosts the health of millions of individuals daily by effectively regulating medicines and medical devices, driven by science and research.

The Science, Research, and Innovation Group delivers a significant public health impact, cutting-edge research innovation, and a distinctive proposition through an ambitious Science Strategy that aims to balance innovation with sustainability and affordability.

The Control Testing team performs the crucial function of independently testing biological medicines, such as blood products and vaccines, ensuring that patients have access to both new and existing products.

Job Description

What's the Role?

The position will offer scientific assistance within a team of analytical scientists specializing in molecular and immunochemistry assays used for characterizing biological medicines as part of the Agency's independent batch release function. The team will conduct various analytical techniques, including ELISA-based assays, immunodiffusion, mRNA quantitation by fluorescence, and support the Molecular Assays team responsible for PCR-based assays, nucleic acid sequencing, and adventitious agent detection.

Key Responsibilities:

• Ensure that analytical assays are conducted in compliance with ISO17025, covering assay development, validation, and troubleshooting.
• Oversee the day-to-day implementation and fostering of improvements in patient outcomes through resource organization, process enhancement, and changes in operational procedures, including training and innovative assay development.
• Provide guidance and oversee the training of staff in specific assays and control testing administration.
• Interact with stakeholders, as directed by the team lead, engaging with colleagues across the Agency and other National Control Laboratories and manufacturers to maintain service quality and facilitate patient access to medicines.

Person Specification

• A degree in a relevant field or equivalent experience, combined with expertise in the analysis of biological medicines, including vaccines and blood-derived products.
• Proficiency in working within the ISO17025 (or equivalent) quality management system.
• Specialized knowledge in one or more of the laboratory methods outlined in the job description.
• Experience utilizing a LIMS.
• Familiarity with statistical analysis and interpretation of results obtained from large complex datasets.
• The capability to engage with a diverse range of stakeholders using clear communication to deliver services and contribute to cooperation, training, scientific, and technical guidance.

Benefits

Alongside a salary of �34,841, the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency contributes �9,407 towards your membership in the Civil Service Defined Benefit Pension scheme. More benefits include:

• Annual Leave: 25 days on entry, increasing by one day annually to a maximum of 30 days, pro-rata for part-time staff, in addition to 8 bank holidays.
• Privilege Leave: 1 day.
• Work Hours: 37 hours per week for full-time staff in all locations, including London, pro-rata for part-time staff.
• Occupational Sick Pay: One month full pay/one month half pay initially, increasing annually to a maximum of five months full pay/five months half pay.
• Mobility: Mobility clause enabling staff mobility across the Civil Service.
• Civil Service Pension Scheme and various other perks.