Biomedical Scientist

at  NHS Professionals

Job Introduction
At the United Kingdom Health Security Agency (UKHSA), the mission is to provide health security for the nation by protecting from infectious disease and external hazards. We are a trusted source of advice to government and to the public, focusing on reducing inequalities in the way different communities experience and are impacted by infectious disease, environmental hazards, and other threats to health.
The Gastrointestinal Bacteria Reference Unit (GBRU) is a National Reference Laboratory and provides specialist and reference services for a specific range of hazard group 2 and 3 gastrointestinal and foodborne bacterial pathogens. GBRU works at local, regional, national and international levels to reduce the impact of food, water and environmentally borne illnesses on people’s health. Activities include provision of bacterial typing services to assist national surveillance, the detection and investigation of outbreaks and specialist microbiological services for the examination of clinical, food, water and environmental samples.
The Gastrointestinal Bacteria Reference Unit based in Colindale, are seeking a Biomedical Scientist to support with general practices within the laboratory, on a short-term basis until 31st March 2025.

Main Responsibilities

• Undertake DNA-based detection and typing for a range of pathogens with assays and techniques such as real-time polymerase chain reaction and whole genome sequencing (WGS)
• Analyse genotypic data with relevant software and assist in the development and maintenance of the genotypic subtyping databases within the Section.
• Assist in the provision and organisation of safe, timely, high quality and economical CL2 and CL3 reference services within GBRU.
• Writing and updating SOPs and controlled documentation.
• Participate in the internal and external safety audits as required and implement any corrective actions.
• Assist senior staff in the management of supporting staff across GBRU and deputise for the HEO when required.

The Ideal Candidate

• HCPC registration as a Biomedical Scientist.
• Evidence of CPD.
• Experience and knowledge of working in a microbiology laboratory at containment level 2.
• Demonstratable experience and knowledge of multiple laboratory techniques including phenotypic and molecular methods.

• Undertake DNA-based detection and typing for a range of pathogens with assays and techniques such as real-time polymerase chain reaction and whole genome sequencing (WGS)
• Analyse genotypic data with relevant software and assist in the development and maintenance of the genotypic subtyping databases within the Section.
• Assist in the provision and organisation of safe, timely, high quality and economical CL2 and CL3 reference services within GBRU.
• Writing and updating SOPs and controlled documentation.
• Participate in the internal and external safety audits as required and implement any corrective actions.
• Assist senior staff in the management of supporting staff across GBRU and deputise for the HEO when required