The Antimicrobial Resistance and Healthcare Associated Infections (AMRHAI) Reference Unit , within the Bacteriology Reference Department of the UKHSA Public Health Microbiology Reference Microbiology Division at Colindale, is the national reference laboratory for the investigation of antibiotic resistance in, and characterisation of healthcare-associated bacterial pathogens. AMRHAI seeks to define outbreaks and identify transmission pathways. We use established and developmental phenotypic and genotypic methods to identify and type isolates, to identify virulence markers and to determine their susceptibility to relevant antibiotics. Likely mechanisms of resistance are inferred by interpretive reading, and we offer molecular detection and confirmation of the genetic determinants of key resistances and monitor their dissemination. AMRHAI undertakes surveillance, advises on outbreak investigation, antimicrobial agents that may be appropriate therapy, and on any public health risk.
This post will also work closely with members of the AMR & HCAI Division within UKHSA’s Epidemic & Emerging Infections Directorate, whose mission is to protect people from healthcare-associated and antimicrobial resistant infections through world-leading public health microbiology, outbreak response, surveillance, antimicrobial stewardship, modelling, research and evidence-based interventions.
As an HCPC-registered Clinical Scientist or Biomedical Scientist, the post-holder will work between the AMRHAI Reference Unit and the AMR & HCAI Division, supporting the Lead Clinical Scientist, Antimicrobial Resistance & Mechanisms Service (ARMS) in providing leadership and expertise in delivery of national reference services for determination of antimicrobial susceptibility and molecular detection of resistance mechanisms of public health importance in healthcare-associated bacterial pathogens.
To support the Lead Clinical Scientist, ARMS and take delegated responsibility in:
Delivery of reference services for ARMS including national reference services
Provision of services that meet agreed quality standards
Integration of existing and new technologies into improved service delivery
Contributing to UKHSA committees and working groups, as required
Actively seeking and managing scientific grants within area of expertise
Maintaining and developing the national and international profile of ARMS, the AMRHAI Reference Unit and the AMR & HCAI Division
We pride ourselves as being an employer of choice, where Everyone Matters promoting equality of opportunity to actively encourage applications from everyone, including groups currently underrepresented in our workforce.
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.
Please visit our careers site for more information https://gov.uk/ukhsa/careers

General