Sptl Principal Bioinformatician

We currently have an exciting opportunity within the Pathogen Characterisation group where we are seeking to appoint to a Principal bioinformatician to support our programmes in host and pathogen genomics across Porton Down. The post will work alongside clinical and research colleagues to develop bioinformatic pipelines and establish further capability to characterise pathogens of interest and host responses to them. A strong track record in genomic data analysis is essential.

Research & Evaluation department, based at UKHSA Porton, is the UK’s largest capability for the handling of dangerous human pathogens and animal modelling of infectious diseases. The capability is used to understand pathogenesis and undertake pre-clinical development and assessment of new vaccines and therapeutics. The capability is also used to undertake studies in microbiological aerobiology, decontamination, and detection, and to develop diagnostic assays for clinical use. This post is in the Pathogen Characterisation group and is actively involved with working with emerging and re-emerging pathogens that continue to pose a threat to the UK and International public health.

Location

This role is be based at Porton Down, Salisbury, Wiltshire, SP4 0JG.

Please be aware that this role can only be worked from within the UK and not overseas. Relocation expenses are not available.
- To lead, develop and support strategies for bioinformatics and informatics approaches to provide programmatic bioinformatics expertise, to improve capability, to improve information dissemination to internal and external stakeholders.
- To have the ability to translate strategic and operational vision into reality through providing technical solutions and to manage junior bioinformatics staff.
- To be responsible for the planning and organisation of scientific computer systems through requirements analysis, functional specification, implementation, deployment, and testing.
- To provide technical expertise in bioinformatics and Information systems/services to the wider Division.
- To provide expert advice to UKHSA and external staff on scientific and technical solutions for bioinformatics related to projects.
- To be responsible for the development and maintenance of WGS analysis pipelines.
- To be responsible for the development, implementation, and management of analytical tools for the Division.
- To contribute to the long-term strategic planning of the above functions, in line with the strategic direction, working practices and policies of the department and UKHSA.

The above is only an outline of the tasks, responsibilities and outcomes required of the role. You will carry out any other duties as may reasonably be required by your line manager.

Working for the UKHSA

UKHSA ethos is to be an inclusive organisation for all our staff and stakeholders. To create, nurture and sustain an inclusive culture, where differences drive innovative solutions to meet the needs of our workforce and wider communities. We do this through celebrating and protecting differences by removing barriers and promoting equity and equality of opportunity for all.

**Benefits**:

- Learning and development tailored to your role
- An environment with flexible working options
- A culture encouraging inclusion and diversity
- A Civil Service pension with an average employer contribution of 27%
- Range of health and wellbeing support

Any move to UKHSA 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 atChildcare Choices | 30 Hours Free Childcare, Tax-Free Childcare and More | Help with Costs | GOV.UK

The job description and person specification may be reviewed on an ongoing basis in accordance with the changing needs of the department and UKHSA.

It should be noted that the work of the department is of a confidential nature and must not be communicated to other persons except where required for authorised purposes.

Key Responsibilities
- Deliver project goals as indicated by Head of VPPC/SL
- Lead junior scientists in project area

Working for the UKHSA

UKHSA ethos is to be an inclusive organisation for all our staff and stakeholders. To create, nurture and sustain an inclusive culture, where differences drive innovative solutions to meet the needs of our workforce and wider communities. We do this through celebrating and protecting differences by removing barriers and promoting equity and equality of opportunity for all.

**Benefits**:

- Learning and development tailored to your role
- An environment with flexible working options
- A culture encouraging inclusion and diversity
- A Civil Service pension with an average employer contribution of 27%
- Range of health and wellbeing support

Any move to UKHSA from another employer will mean you can no longer access childcare vouchers. This i