Senior Biomedical Scientist

The UK Health Security Agency exists to protect and improve the nation’s health and wellbeing and reduce health inequalities. We do this through world-leading science, knowledge and intelligence, advocacy, partnerships and the delivery of specialist publichealth services. We are an executive agency of the Department of Health and Social Care, and a distinct delivery organisation with operational autonomy. We provide government, local government, the NHS, Parliament, industry and the public with evidence-basedprofessional, scientific and delivery expertise and support.

**Location**

This is a lab-based role located at UKHSA Colindale, London, NW9 5EQ.
- *Please be aware that this role can only be worked from within the UK and not overseas. Relocation expenses are not available. *_

**Working Pattern -**Full Time

The Senior Biomedical Scientist will take a leading role in the maintenance and provision of development of molecular sequence-based typing (SBT), urine antigen testing, novel technologies and introduction of genomic sequencing for the key acute respiratoryinfections _Legionella _spp, _Mycoplasma_ spp and _Ureaplasma_ spp reference services and other services within the Zoonotic and Acute Respiratory Section (ZARS), Respiratory and Vaccine Preventable Bacteria Reference Unit (RVPBRU).**
The duties/responsibilities listed above describe the post as it is at present and is not intended to be exhaustive. The Job holder is expected to accept reasonable alterations and additional tasks of a similar level that may be necessary.

**Essential Criteria**:

- HCPC State registration (or a demonstrable plan to achieve registration within 6 months) and maintains professional competence.
- BSc in Biomedical Sciences or equivalent.Relevant higher degree (MSc/PhD) in Medical Microbiology/Virology/Molecular microbiology.
- Good in-depth knowledge of clinical and reference microbiology including extensive work with Legionella, Mycoplasma and other respiratory bacteria.
- Experience of evaluating and validating molecular assays and/or sequence-based typing and whole genome sequencing.
- Understands quality assurance principles and procedures.Knows and understands laboratory safety requirements and procedures.
- Excellent analytical, judgmental and decision making, together with diplomacy and negotiation skills.
- Aptitude for training and managing staff and assessing performance.
- An understanding of and commitment to equality of opportunity and good working relationships.

**Desirable Criteria**:

- Relevant management training and qualification.
- Track record of peer-reviewed publications and oral presentations.
- IT / LIMS systems - familiarity with database software (Access, Excel, Bionumerics) and preparation of queries