Biomedical Scientist

Overview

This position is based at the Scientific Campus in Colindale, London, within the Immunisation and Diagnosis Unit (IDU), a WHO Global Reference Laboratory for Measles and Rubella. The IDU also provides reference and surveillance services for pathogens including Mumps, Parvovirus B19, Polyomavirus JC, Varicella Zoster Virus, Human Herpes Viruses 6 & 7, and intrathecal antibody assessments. The role requires supporting and delivering reference and surveillance operations per UKHSA protocols as directed by the IDU Unit Head and Technical Manager. A High-Cost Area Supplement of 15% of basic salary applies, ranging from a minimum of £4,870 to a maximum of £6,137 annually.

Key Responsibilities

• Validate laboratory results and lead/manage sections of work in collaboration with senior staff.
• Analyze genotypic data using appropriate software tools.
• Develop and improve laboratory protocols for molecular, serological, and cell culture methods, also contributing to research and development projects.
• Evaluate testing procedures and equipment, producing reports for publication and dissemination.
• Draft standard operating procedures relevant to laboratory activities.
• Perform, interpret, and record tests according to set protocols for diagnostic and surveillance purposes, including molecular, serological, and culture techniques.
• Participate in outbreak and incident investigations and manage clinical sample booking, storage, and handling.
• Engage in tissue culture and virus isolation, maintaining the WHO strain bank for measles and rubella.
• Ensure rigorous quality control of sample preparation, recording, and archiving, and maintain calibration and safety checks on equipment.
• Manage laboratory consumables, reagents, and kits to support daily operations.
• Train and support staff and visitors on safety and quality systems compliance.
• Assist with staff selection processes and foster positive working relationships internally and externally.
• Support laboratory maintenance, stock acquisition, and resource management to optimize service provision.
• Commit to continuous professional development, mandatory training, and quality assurance initiatives.

Professional Relationships

The role involves regular communication with a broad range of internal medical and scientific staff across UKHSA and external contacts like hospitals and other laboratories.

Candidate Requirements

• Bachelor's degree (BSc) in Biomedical Science or a closely related field such as Applied Biomedical Science, Medical Science, or Human Biology.
• Registration with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).
• Master's degree (MSc) in Biomedical Science or Clinical Science.
• Practical experience working in diagnostic microbiology, virology, or molecular laboratories, including manual and automated serology and molecular techniques.
• Competency in handling clinical specimens and infectious materials under Containment Level 2 (CL2) conditions.
• Knowledge of quality management systems and applicable health and safety regulations.
• Strong time management skills with the ability to reprioritize workloads effectively.
• Capacity to work independently under minimal supervision and adapt to urgent demands.
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, with teamwork orientation.
• Commitment to equality and fostering a positive workplace environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with cell and viral culture techniques.

Additional Details

The UK Health Security Agency promotes diversity, inclusion, and equity in recruiting, aiming to create a welcoming environment where differences foster innovation. Employment benefits include tailored learning and development, flexible working options, an inclusive culture, and a Civil Service pension plan with a generous employer contribution of 28.97%. Candidates are advised that use of artificial intelligence tools in their application must be truthful, properly referenced, and from their own experience to avoid disqualification.

Selection Process

Candidates will be evaluated on a competency-based framework covering knowledge, skills, qualifications, and experience as per essential criteria. The process includes submission of an application form and an 800-word supporting statement detailing how the candidate meets essential requirements. Applications are carefully sifted, and only those meeting all essential criteria will advance in the selection stages.