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Senior Biomedical Scientist

UK Health Security Agency
Full-time
On-site
Bristol, London, United Kingdom

The United Kingdom Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is a system leader for health security; taking action internationally to strengthen global health security, providing trusted advice to government and the public and reducing inequalities in the way different communities experience and are impacted by infectious disease, environmental hazards, and other threats to health.

UKHSA’s remit, as an agency with a global-to-local reach, is to protect the health of the nation from infectious diseases and other external threats to health. As the nation’s expert national health security agency UKHSA will:

  • Prevent: anticipate threats to health and help build the nation’s readiness, defences and health security
  • Detect: use cutting edge environmental and biological surveillance to proactively detect and monitor infectious diseases and threats to health
  • Analyse: use world-class science and data analytics to assess and continually monitor threats to health, identifying how best to control and mitigate the risks
  • Respond: take rapid, collaborative and effective actions nationally and locally to mitigate threats to health when they materialise
  • Lead: lead strong and sustainable global, national, regional and local partnerships designed to save lives, protect the nation from public health threats and reduce inequalities.

Job overview

To work as part of the laboratory team, providing a high level of virological, molecular and serological analysis in order to provide patients with the highest level of diagnosis and treatment.

To be responsible for the efficient day-to-day running of areas of the laboratory, to be able to rotate through different areas of the laboratory and to supervise and train inexperienced Biomedical Scientists (BMS’s), trainee BMS’s, Associate Practitioners (AP’s) and Healthcare Scientist Support Workers (HSSW’s).  

The post holder will take responsibility for the technical performance of the areas involved, ensuring the production of reliable, relevant and timely results and reports. 

The post holder would be expected to assist in any UKHSA co-ordinated response or activity of a national/international nature, e.g. a major disease outbreak, e.g. SARS or ‘Swine flu’.

To participate in the provision on out-of-hours services.

Advert

Under the guidance of the Laboratory Manager and/or deputy, to be responsible for and participate in the day-to-day running of a laboratory section providing routine and specialist diagnostic laboratory services in Virology in accordance with national and professional standards.

To take responsibility for the technical performance of the section, ensuring the production of reliable, relevant, and timely results and reports.

With the Laboratory Manager and/or deputy, contribute to the development of the services provided to meet the users’ requirements.

With other senior staff, participate in the supervision, training and development of staff in the department

Working for our organisation

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

Detailed job description and main responsibilities

Staff

  • To lead in the day-to-day supervision and organisation of the less qualified staff in the allocated areas.
  • To monitor the performance and ensure competence of less qualified staff.
  • To lead in the training in less qualified staff, paying particular attention to the implementation of training policies and procedures and to lead in the individual performance reviews/personal development planning of AP and HSSW staff and Specialists BMS’s/trainees, in accordance with their training competency.
  • To be aware of the “wellbeing” of staff in the allocated area.
  • Where appropriate and necessary, to act as the first line of management in the relevant areas.  This includes the minor discipline of less qualified staff, allocation and co-ordination of leave etc.
  • To undertake appraisals as per UKHSA Policy.

Laboratory

  • To lead and organise the processing of the clinical specimens received and the undertaking of the related tasks in the various sections of the laboratory, leading to the reporting and interpretation of results in accordance with agreed policies and standard operating procedures (SOPs).
  • Based upon sound knowledge and experience, on receipt of samples, to lead the designation, of the range of tests to be performed on the various samples.
  • To assist in the scrutiny of results produced, including the authorisation of reports according to laboratory protocols.
  • Utilising virological/molecular and serological techniques, to lead the work in areas of the Laboratory.
  • To perform and monitor quality control tests, to record these results and bring any anomalies to the attention of Quality Manager and Biomedical Lead as soon as is practicable.
  • Where appropriate, to assist and/or initiate research & development and audit projects.  To co-ordinate surveillance programs where appropriate, and to evaluate new methods and technology.  The latter may lead to income generation.
  • To assist in the production and dissemination of laboratory reports, data and statistics, including the issuing of results by phone or computer, and being aware of priorities of reports.
  • Together with other senior BMS staff, to regularly organise the staffing of the various areas of the laboratory and to participate in the Senior BMS staff meetings.
  • To contribute to the Laboratory and other relevant Action Plans.
  • To contribute to decisions with regards to the purchase of capital equipment.
  • To perform and monitor quality control tests, to record these results and bring any anomalies to the attention of Quality Manager and Biomedical Lead as soon as is practicable.
  • Where appropriate, to assist and/or initiate research & development and audit projects.  To co-ordinate surveillance programs where appropriate, and to evaluate new methods and technology.  The latter may lead to income generation.
  • To assist in the production and dissemination of laboratory reports, data and statistics, including the issuing of results by phone or computer, and being aware of priorities of reports.
  • Together with other senior BMS staff, to regularly organise the staffing of the various areas of the laboratory and to participate in the Senior BMS staff meetings.
  • To contribute to the Laboratory and other relevant Action Plans.
  • To contribute to decisions with regards to the purchase of capital equipment.
  • To ensure all staff undertake their duties in a safe and responsible manner.

Essential criteria

  • State registration with Health Professions Council (HCPC) including continuous professional development.
  • Further study – e.g. MSc or professional qualification (completed or underway) or extensive experience in a Virology laboratory.
  • Good knowledge of health and safety and safe working practices.
  • Clear communicator with good writing, data entry and telephone skills ensuring accuracy and attention to detail through the use of computerised data systems and Microsoft Office including Word and Excel.
  • Ability to work effectively as part of a team.
  • Able to work on own initiative, organising and prioritising own workload to set deadlines.
  • An understanding of and commitment to equality of opportunity and good working relationships, both in terms of day-to-day working practices, but also in relation to management systems.
  • Previous experience of responsibility for the day-to-day organisation and supervision of staff and work in a section of the laboratory requiring skills such as problem-solving.
  • Ability to process the clinical specimens received and to undertake the related tasks in the various sections of the laboratory i.e. reading, reporting, interpretation and validation of results in accordance with agreed polices and SOPs.
  • Able to adhere and contribute to the delivery of the Quality Management System.
  • Ability to work in accordance with the regulations and Codes of Practice governing H&S within the department.
  • Previous experience of participation in staff appraisal according to Trust policies and procedures.
  • Ability to assist the Lead BMS and Laboratory Manager and/or deputy as required in the recruitment of staff.
  • Previous experience of participation in competency assessment of BMSs and support staff. Monitor and manage performance of technical staff.
  • Previous experience of participation in the evaluation of new methods and equipment and contribute to discussions on workflow and methodology.

Selection Process Details (Competency based) 

This vacancy will be assessed using a competency-based framework which will assess your qualifications, knowledge and experience and / or skills and abilities outlined in the essential criteria. 

Stage 1: Application & Sift

You will be required to complete an application form. You will be assessed on the listed 15 essential criteria, and this will be in the form of a:  

  • Application form (‘Employer/ Activity history’ section on the application)

  • 1250 word supporting statement.  

This should outline how you consider your skills, experience and knowledge provide evidence of your suitability for the role, with reference to the essential criteria.  
 
You will receive a joint score for your application form and statement. (The application form is the kind of information you would put into your C.V –please be advised you will not be able to upload your CV. Please complete the application form in as much detail as possible). Please do not email us your CV. 

Healthjobs UK has a word limit of 1500, but your supporting statement must be no more than 1250 words. We will not consider any words over 1250 words. 

Longlisting: In the event of a large number of applications we may longlist into 3 piles of: 

  • Meets all essential criteria 
  • Meets some essential criteria  
  • Meets no essential criteria  

If used, the piles ‘Meets all essential criteria’ and ‘Meets some essential criteria’ will proceed to shortlisting. 

Shortlisting: In the event of a large number of applications we may conduct an initial sift, on the lead criteria of:

  • State registration with Health Professions Council (HCPC) including continuous professional development. 

If you are successful at this stage, you will progress to interview & assessment. 

Feedback will not be provided at this stage. 

Stage 2: Interview

You will be invited to a single face to face interview. If face to face interviews are planned, in exceptional circumstances, we may be able to offer a remote interview.  

Knowledge, experience, skills & abilities will be tested at interview   

You will be asked to prepare and present a 5–10 minute presentation on the following subject:

“How do you maintain quality during periods of staffing constraints in the laboratory?”

Interviews dates to be confirmed. 

Once this job has closed, the job advert will no longer be available. You may want to save a copy for your records. 

Location

This role is based at Southmead Hospital, Southmead road, Bristol, BS10 5NB.

Please note hybrid working is not available for this role. 

Security Clearance Level Requirement

Successful candidates must pass a disclosure and barring security check

Successful candidates must meet the security requirements before they can be appointed. The level of security needed is Counter-terrorist Check

If based at one of our labs, you will be required to have a Counter Terrorism Check security vetting check as a minimum. For meaningful National Security Vetting checks to be carried out individuals need to have lived in the UK for a sufficient period of time. You should normally have been resident in the United Kingdom for the last 3 years as the role requires Counter Terrorism Check (CTC) clearance. In exceptional circumstances UK residency less than the outlined periods may not necessarily bar you from gaining national security vetting and applicants should contact the Vacancy Holder/Recruiting Manager listed in the advert for further advice.

Eligibility Criteria

External: Open to all external applicants (anyone) from outside the Civil Service (including internal applicants).

Salary Information

If you are successful at interview, and are moving from another government department, NHS, or Local Authority, the relevant starting salary principles for level transfers or promotions will apply. Otherwise, roles are offered at the pay scale minimum for the grade, but in exceptional circumstances there may be flexibility if you are able to demonstrate you are already in receipt of an existing, higher salary. Pay increases are through the relevant annual pay award for the role and terms.

IMPORTANT - PLEASE READ 

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Artificial Intelligence can be a useful tool to support your application, however, all examples and statements provided must be truthful, factually accurate and taken directly from your own experience. Where plagiarism has been identified (presenting the ideas and experiences of others, or generated by artificial intelligence, as your own) applications may be withdrawn and internal candidates may be subject to disciplinary action. Please see our candidate guidance for more information on appropriate and inappropriate use. 

Link below:

Artificial intelligence and recruitment | Civil Service Careers

This is a Non-Reserved post under the Civil Service Nationality Rules. To be eligible for employment in the UK Civil Service applicants must meet the Civil Service Nationality Rules (CSNRs) which operate independently of and additionally to the Immigration Rules. Applicants must also meet necessary security and vetting requirements, along with any other relevant pre-employment checks. 

This job is broadly open to the following groups:

  • UK nationals
  • nationals of the Republic of Ireland
  • nationals of Commonwealth countries who have the right to work in the UK
  • nationals of the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein and family members of those nationalities with settled or pre-settled status under the European Union Settlement Scheme (EUSS) (opens in a new window)
  • nationals of the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein and family members of those nationalities who have made a valid application for settled or pre-settled status under the European Union Settlement Scheme (EUSS) 
  • individuals with limited leave to remain or indefinite leave to remain who were eligible to apply for EUSS on or before 31 December 2020
  • Turkish nationals, and certain family members of Turkish nationals, who have accrued the right to work in the Civil Service

For more information on job nationality requirements and the right to work in the UK, see the Civil Service Nationality rules (opens in a new window) and the UK Visas and Immigration rules (opens in a new window)

For posts on UKHSA Civil Service terms and conditions, new entrants to the Civil Service are expected to start on the minimum of the pay band. For existing Civil Servants and roles advertised across government, the rules of transfer apply, i.e., level transfers move on current salary or the pay range minimum, transfers on promotion move to new pay range minimum or receive a 10% increase. Either case is determined by whichever is the highest.  

The Civil Service pay structure and progression is different from NHS Agenda for Change (AfC), most local authority pay grades and other systems that have annual pay increments. For further details, please refer to the Information Sheet- Starting Salaries & Benefits attachment. 

For AfC or Medical/Dental posts, you must have the correct professional registration to be appointed. The pay will follow the AfC or Medical & Dental terms & conditions. You may be asked to provide evidence of previous service whilst we are conducting pre-employment checks to determine your starting salary. 

For Temporary Appointments, if you are not currently a civil servant, you will take up the post on a Fixed Term appointment.  You may be able to take this role up as a Secondment.  If you are an existing Civil Servant, based outside of the UKHSA, you will take up the post as a loan which you will need your department to agree. You cannot take the post up as a fixed term. If you are an existing UKHSA member of staff, you will take up the post as either a level transfer or a temporary promotion as per the UKHSA’s Pay policy.  

Given the nature of the work of the UKHSA, as a Category 1 responder under the Civil Contingencies Act, you may be required in an emergency, if deemed a necessity, to redeploy to another role at short notice. You may also be required to work at any other location, within reasonable travelling distance of your permanent home address, in line with the provisions set out in your contract of employment. 

Late Applications will unfortunately not be considered. 

Working for the Civil Service

The Civil Service Code (opens in a new window) sets out the standards of behaviour expected of civil servants.

We recruit by merit on the basis of fair and open competition, as outlined in the Civil Service Commission's recruitment principles (opens in a new window).
 

The Civil Service embraces diversity and promotes equality of opportunity. The law requires that selection for appointment to the Civil Service is on merit on the basis of fair and open competition, as outlined in the Civil Service Commission's Recruitment Principles.

If you feel your application has not been treated in accordance with the Recruitment Principles, and you wish to make a complaint, in the first instance, you should contact UKHSA Public Accountability Unit via  email:  [email protected] If you are not satisfied with the response you receive from the Department, you can contact the Civil Service Commission: Visit the Civil Service Commission website here. 

Reserve List - If more than the required number of suitable candidates pass the interview criteria, you may be kept on a reserve list for 12 months subject to your agreement. You may be contacted, in merit-order, if similar roles with closely matching essential criteria become available and the department choose to appoint from a reserve list. 

The panel will assess if candidates meet the requirement of the role first, using a specific benchmark system. If you are interviewed for the post and do not meet the required threshold for the specified grade, your application may be assessed against a similar, lower grade role and you may be offered the post should one be available. 

Interview expenses will not be reimbursed. 

UKHSA is required to check employment and/or education history covering three consecutive years. Please ensure you give details of at least two different referees, even if you were employed in one company for three years or more. 
 
If you are offered a job, information will also be transferred into the national NHS Electronic Staff Records system. Please note, all communication regarding your application will be made via email, please ensure you check your junk/spam folders as emails are sometimes filtered there. 

Any move to UKHSA from another employer will mean you can no longer access childcare vouchers. This includes moves between government departments. You may however be eligible for other government schemes, including Tax-Free Childcare. Determine your eligibility at https://www.childcarechoices.gov.uk/. 

 Benefits of working at UKHSA include: 

  • Generous annual leave: 
    -26 days for the first 5 years of continuous service 
    -28 days after 5 years of continuous service 
    -32 days after 10 years of continuous service 
    -Plus public holidays and one privilege day for the King’s birthday 
  • Access to a generous Defined Benefit pension scheme with employer contributions. 
  • Access to a cycle-to-work salary sacrifice scheme, season ticket advances and payroll giving.
  • Access to a retail discounts and cashback site.
  • We also promote flexible working patterns (part-time, job-share, condensed hours). UKHSA views flexible working as essential in enabling us to recruit and retain talented people, ensuring that they are able to enjoy a long-lasting career with us. All employees have the right to apply for flexible working and there are a range of options available including working from home, compressed hours and job sharing.
  • We also offer a generous maternity/ paternity and adoption leave package. 

Hybrid Working

UKHSA operates a hybrid working model where business needs allow.  This provides us with greater flexibility about how and where we work, to get the best from our workforce.  

As a hybrid worker, you will usually spend a minimum of 60% of your contracted hours (averaged over a month) working at one of UKHSA's locations (approximately 3 days a week pro rata) and the rest of your time working from home. 

Disability Confident Scheme

The Civil Service embraces diversity and promotes equal opportunities. As such, we run a Disability Confident Scheme for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum selection criteria at sift to ensure these candidates are invited to interview.   If you wish to be included in this scheme please tick the box on your application form.  

Reasonable Adjustments

The Civil Service is committed to making sure that our selection methods are fair to everyone.

To help you during the recruitment process, we will take into account any reasonable adjustments that could help you.

An adjustment is a change to the recruitment process or an adjustment at work. 

This is separate to the Disability Confident Scheme. 

If you need an adjustment to be made at any point during the recruitment process you should: 

Contact the recruitment team in confidence as soon as possible to discuss your needs. 

You can find out more information about reasonable adjustments across the Civil Service here: https://www.civil-service-careers.gov.uk/reasonable-adjustments/

International Police Check

If you have spent more than 6 months abroad over the last 3 years you may need an International Police Check.  This would not necessarily have to be in a single block, and could be time accrued over that period. 

Internal Fraud check 

If successful for this role as one aspect of pre-employment screening, applicant’s personal details – name, national insurance number and date of birth - will be checked against the Cabinet Office Internal Fraud Hub and anyone included on the database will be refused employment unless they can show exceptional circumstances. Currently this is only for External candidates to the Civil Service.

Security Vetting

Please check the Security Clearance needed for the role and follow the link for more information:

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/united-kingdom-security-vetting-clearance-levels/national-security-vetting-clearance-levels

Future location 

UKHSA is investing in a new state-of-the-art National Biosecurity Centre in Harlow, Essex, which will eventually bring together teams currently based at Canary Wharf, Colindale and Porton Down. For more details, please see: Huge biosecurity centre investment to boost pandemic protection - GOV.UK.

The new facilities will start becoming operational in the mid-2030s, with full completion by 2038. Staff will move in phases as facilities become available. If you're appointed to a role currently based at Canary Wharf, Colindale or Porton Down, please note that we'll continue investing in these sites for the next decade. As we get closer to the transition, we'll provide full information about relocation support available to staff.

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