Scientist - Global Specialised Polio Laboratory

Overview

We are looking for a Higher Scientist – Global Specialised Polio Laboratory to join our Research & Development function. Funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the role provides science‑based guidance to endgame strategies for the GPEI, supporting immunisation programmes and clinical and environmental surveillance systems for polio and non‑polio enteroviruses.

• Undertake laboratory‑based work to improve methods and analytical algorithms to detect and characterise polio and non‑polio viruses in clinical and environmental samples by Direct Detection by Nanopore Sequencing (DDNS).
• Perform molecular assays including RT‑PCR, RT‑qPCR and next generation sequencing analysis of viral nucleic acid preparations from stool and sewage samples.
• Participate in international collaborations and training programmes to advance global polio virus surveillance capacities.
• Analyse complex data arising from DDNS work and contribute to preparation of scientific reports and papers.
• Engage with stakeholders, including national and international external organisations, regulatory agencies, vaccine manufacturers and academic institutes to deliver expert services and training related to statutory functions.

• BSc in biological sciences subject (MSc desirable) or equivalent experience with evidence of R&D.
• Experience of implementing, developing and optimising laboratory procedures and conducting relevant research experiments with accurate record keeping and reporting on findings.
• Experience of working independently as well as within a team, with good time‑management and great attention to detail.
• Sound knowledge of biosafety regulations to work with human and animal infectious samples (CL2/3).
• Skills in molecular and cell‑based assays applicable to viral diseases including nucle acid extraction, RT‑PCR and sequencing.
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Benefits

Salary £37,456 per annum. Civil Service Defined Benefit Pension scheme of £10,851 contributed. Annual leave 25 days (plus bank holidays); flexible working options; materials for learning and development.