DNA Analyst

Eurofins Scientificis a leading international group of laboratories with over EUR 2.4billion annual sales and over 30,000employees with a network of 375laboratories in 41countries.

Eurofins has a network of16sites in the UK and the Group provides an unparalleled range of over 100,000 reliableand validated analyticalmethods and support services to the pharmaceutical, food, environmental and consumer product industries, and to governments.

Eurofins Forensic Services (EFS) laboratories are amongst the most advanced analytical facilities in Europe, enabling the company to offer a complete and comprehensive range of independent and innovative forensic testing solutions to police forces, legal and criminal justice organisations throughout the UK and Europe.

EFS DNA laboratories, located in Birchwood Park, serve multiple customers and are continuously working to develop new DNA technologies for forensics. An extended range of forensic DNA techniques is offered covering all routine and specialist analyses, available on demand. The PACE laboratory provides rapid, cost-effective DNA profiling of reference samples, with results loaded to the National DNA Database or made available to Reporting Officers for comparison. The DNA Crime Stain team carries out DNA profiling from a wide range of sample types to assist in investigations. Our services are noted for exceptionally high success rates, rapid turnaround times and competitive pricing.

Contract: Permanent

Hours: 37.5 hours per week

The Role

An opportunity has arisen for a DNA analyst to join the laboratory testing team in the DNA Centre based in Birchwood Park.

The role comprises carring out high throughput DNA profiling of samples; working flexibly and communicating effectively to deliver results within contractual TRT’s and to the highest quality standards.

Key Responsibilities and Accountabilities

• To undertake testing and documentation of samples with minimal supervision, as per standard operating procedures to required timescales, following suitable training and demonstrable competencies.
• STR Profiling of various exhibits and samples as required, across a range of routine and specialist techniques including DNA extraction, quant, PCR, analysis and reporting of results.
• Adherence to good lab practice (GLP) and quality systems.
• Perform housekeeping duties including sample archiving and disposal, laboratory cleaning, maintenance of equipment and monitoring stock levels.
• Responsible for maintaining a right first-time approach to work, reporting any non-conformances or near misses to the local quality systems and implementing process improvements.
• Take a proactive approach to Continuous Improvement (CI) within all aspects of the role; striving to improve output and efficiency of both scientific and support tasks.
• Communicate effectively to team members and team leads to ensure a smooth flow of work through the laboratory process.

Knowledge, Experience and Technical Skills

The post is suited to people with experience of working in a high throughput, highly regulated environment. They will need to be able to work well as a member of a team and collaborate closely with colleagues performing similar roles. GLP is paramount in this working environment to ensure the integrity and traceability of the sample types received for testing. A practical background in the testing process is advantageous but not essential as full training will be provided.

Person Specification

• Demonstrate ownership of issues that arise day to day, escalating only when necessary
• Display patience, determination, attention to detail and integrity at all times
• Exhibit high levels of concentration, accuracy and reliability
• Able to manage a demanding workload; show good organisational skills and high levels of personal resilience with the ability to work to deadlines under pressure
• Communicate and work co-operatively with others, focussing on a collective rather than individual goals
• Demonstrate initiative, adopting a pro-active attitude to continuous improvement

The job holder will be able to demonstrate the following behaviours in line with EFS’s values:

• Customer Focus
• Quality
• Competence
• Team Spirit
• Integrity.

Due to the highly sensitive nature of the work, applicants should note that security clearance will be required for this role. To gain security clearance you must have five years continuous residency in the UK. Criminal convictions may prevent you from gaining security clearance. This role will in addition require alcohol/drug screening.

The organisation treats personal data collected during the recruitment process in accordance with its data protection policy. Information about how your data is used and the basis for processing your data is provided in the organisations applicant privacy notice.