Principal Scientist, Cell-based Assays

Job DescriptionWe are currently looking for a Principal Scientist Cell-based Assays to join our Control Testing Function within the Science 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.Who are we?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.What’s the role?The role will provide expert scientific direction and line management to a team of analytical scientists focused on cell-based assays used for the characterisation of biological medicines to deliver the Agency’s independent control testing function. The Cell-based assay team will perform a range of analytical techniques including, but not limited to fluorometric, microscopy, foci-forming assays, Fluorescence Activated Cell Sorting (FACS), plaque forming and plaque reduction neutralisation 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 patients’ access to medicines. Who are we looking for?Our Successful Candidate Will 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 verity of stakeholders, using clear communication to foster collaboration, deliver expert services, training, scientific and technical advice. Person SpecificationMethod 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, ideally ISO17025 and management of outcomes. (A, I) Extensive experience of using a 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:- in fluorometric, microscopy, foci-forming assays, Fluorescence Activated Cell Sorting (FACS), plaque forming and plaque reduction neutralisation assays. (A, I) A PhD in a relevant field or extensive equivalent experience, together with significant experience in the analysis of at biological medicines, including vaccines (A) Strengths Team Player (I) If you would like to find out more about this fantastic opportunity, please read our Job Description and Person Specification Please note: The job description may not open in some internet browsers. Please use Chrome or Microsoft Edge. If you have any issue viewing the job description, please contact careers@mhra.gov.uk The Selection ProcessWe use the Civil Service Success Profiles to assess our candidates, find out more here . Online application form, including questions based on the Behaviour, Experience and Technical Success Profiles. Please ensure all application questions are completed in full; your application may not be considered if any responses are left blank. Our applications are CV blind, and our Hiring Managers will not be able to access your CV when reviewing your application. Interview, which can include questions based on the Behaviour, Experience, Technical and Strengths Success Profiles. In the instance that we receive a high number of applications, we will hold an initial sift based on the lead criteria of candidates having A PhD in a relevant field or extensive equivalent experience, together with significant experience in the analysis of at biological medicines including a least one of the following sample types: proteins, vaccines .Applicants are assessed on whether they meet any mandatory requirements as well as the necessary skills and experience for the role. Applications are scored based on the competency-based answers provided- ensure you have read these thoroughly and allow sufficient time. You can view the competencies for this role in the job description.If you require any disability related adjustments at any point during the process, please contact careers@mhra.gov.uk as soon as possible.Closing date: 14 th December 2025Shortlisting date: from 15 th December 2025Interview date: from 5 th January 2025If you need assistance applying for this role or have any other questions, please contact careers@mhra.gov.ukCandidates will be subject to UK immigration requirements as well as Civil Service nationality rules. Further information on whether you are able to apply is available here .Successful candidates must pass a disclosure and barring security check as well as animal rights and pro-life activism checks. People working with government assets must complete basic personnel security standard checks .RoleCertain roles within the MHRA will require post holders to have vaccinations, and in some circumstances, routine health surveillance. These roles include: Laboratory-based roles working directly with known pathogens Maintenance roles, particularly those required to work in laboratory settings Roles that involve visiting other establishments where vaccination is required Roles required to travel overseas where specific vaccination may be required. Applicants who are successful at interview will be, as part of pre-employment screening subject to a check on the Internal Fraud Database (IFD). This check will provide information about employees who have been dismissed for fraud or dishonesty offences. This check also applies to employees who resign or otherwise leave before being dismissed for fraud or dishonesty had their employment continued. Any applicant’s details held on the IFD will be refused employment. A candidate is not eligible to apply for a role within the Civil Service if the application is made within a 5 year period following a dismissal for carrying out internal fraud against government.Any move to the MHRA from another employer will mean you can no longer access childcare vouchers. This includes moves between government departments. You may however be eligible for other government schemes, including Tax-Free Childcare. Determine your eligibility here .Successful candidates may be subject to annual Occupational Health reviews dependent on role requirements. If you have any queries, please contact careers@mhra.gov.uk .In accordance with the Civil Service Commissioners’ Recruitment Principles our recruitment and selection processes are underpinned by the requirement of selection for appointment on the basis of merit by a fair and open competition. If you feel your application has not been treated in accordance with the Recruitment Principles and you wish to make a complaint, you should firstly contact Florentina Oleylami, Head of Talent Acquisition, Florentina.Oyelami@mhra.gov.uk .If you are not satisfied with the response you receive, you can contact the Civil Service Commission at: civilservicecommission.independent.gov.ukinfo@csc.gov.ukCivil Service CommissionRoom G/81 Horse Guards RoadLondonSW1A 2HQAbout Us 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 agency is made up of c.1300 staff working across two main centres and peripatetically across the UK and abroad.The agency consists of Corporate, Digital & Technology, Enablement, Healthcare Quality & Access, Partnerships, Safety & Surveillance and Scientific Research & Innovation.