Senior Scientist and Cell Production Lead

at  Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency

We are currently looking for a Senior Scientist and Cell Production Lead to join our Biotherapeutics & Advanced Therapies team in the Research & Development function within the Science, Research & Innovation group.
This is a full-time opportunity, on a permanent basis. The role will be based in South Mimms, Hertfordshire. Please be aware that this role can only be worked in the UK and not overseas.

WHO ARE WE LOOKING FOR?

Our successful candidate will meet the following criteria:
1. PhD in a relevant biological science or BSc with relevant laboratory experience, for example in Cellular Biology, Molecular Biology, Biological Science, Biomedical Science or Biochemistry.
2. Practical experience in a range of molecular and cell biology techniques and knowledge of good laboratory practice, for example human embryonic stem cell culture, mammalian embryonic stem cell culture, cell culture, Flow Cytometry, qPCR
3. Experience of working in a cleanroom environment and/or within a recognised quality system.
4. Delivering at Pace – Excellent organisational skills and ability to plan work to optimise time management and output across multiple projects.
5. Team Player - You work well as part of a team and strive to ensure the team pulls together and is effective
If you would like to find out more about this fantastic opportunity, please read our Job Description and Person Specification!
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THE SELECTION PROCESS:

We use the Civil Service Success Profiles to assess our candidates, find out more here.

• Online application form, including a statement of suitability, attached as a PDF of no more than 500 of words demonstrating how you meet the person specification. Please ensure all application questions are completed in full; your application may not be considered if any responses are left blank. Our applications are CV blind, and our Hiring Managers will not be able to access your CV when reviewing your application. Please ensure not to include any personal identifying information on your supporting information.
• Presentation, to be prepared as part of your interview, with further information being supplied when you reach this stage.
• Interview, which can include questions based on the Behaviour, Experience, Technical and Strengths Success Profiles.

Applicants are assessed on whether they meet any mandatory requirements as well as the necessary skills and experience for the role. Applications are scored based on the answers and statement of suitability provided. You can view the criteria for this role in the job description.

WHAT’S THE ROLE?

The post holder shall provide scientific and technical input into the day-to-day banking and QC activities of the UKSCB, and to ensure that the work streams are completed to the agreed timelines and within the required quality framework. The work will be centered around the banking, characterisation and safety testing of human embryonic stem cells under the Human and Tissues Authority (HTA). The post-holder is also expected to deliver on internal and external cell supply under the ISO 9001 quality system and to Deputise for the Head of Cell Production.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Ensure effective service delivery by carrying out banking and quality control testing of human embryonic stem cells according to UKSCB standard operating procedures and ensuring HTA and ISO9001 compliance; preparing cell culture media and specialist reagents, carrying-out stock control procedures, maintaining batch records and monitoring and maintaining liquid nitrogen levels in the storage refrigerators; maintaining quality control records and cell line documentation.
2. Ensure effective service delivery by carrying out banking and quality control testing of cell lines stored under ISO 9001, following standard operating procedures and ensuring quality compliance; preparing cell culture media and specialist reagents, carrying-out stock control procedures, maintaining batch records and monitoring and maintaining liquid nitrogen levels in the storage refrigerators; maintaining quality control records and cell line documentation.
3. Provide scientific and technical input into the banking programme including validation studies on processes and equipment. Write reports and represent the UKSCB at consortium and other meetings as appropriate.
4. Deputise for the Head of Cell Production as required. Including, but not limited to: ensuring banks of cell lines are established according to documented procedures and specifications; acting as a point of contact for the biannual planned preventative maintenance (PPM) and annual clean down and re-certification of the UKSCB cleanrooms