Scientist; TBVAC

Position: Higher Scientist (TBVAC)
Location: South Mimms

Job Description

We are currently looking for a

Job Description

We are currently looking for a Higher Scientist (TBVAC) to join our Research and Development Function within the Science, Research and Innovation group.

This is a full-time opportunity, on a fixed term contract basis until 18 th August 2027. The role will be based in South Mimms, Hertfordshire.

Government departments and agencies are working towards implementing a minimum 60% attendance in office sites.

Who are we?

The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency enhance and improve the health of millions of people every day through the effective regulation of medicines and medical devices, underpinned by science and research.

The Science, Research and Innovation Group delivers public health impact, world-leading research innovation, and a unique regulatory proposition for patients and users via an ambitious Science Strategy which will balance innovation against sustainability and affordability. It is divided into 6 sub-Groups, Innovation Accelerator, Clinical Investigations and Trials, Research and Development, Standards Lifecycle, Control Testing and Quality Assurance and Health & Safety.

Within R&D sits the Vaccines team of around 60 scientists in 8 Research groups.

What’s the role?

The post holder will support work in the Tuberculosis research field in understanding TB vaccine protective responses, vaccination strategies and studying pulmonary/extrapulmonary TB pathogenesis. The role encompasses working with in vitro and in vivo models.



Key Responsibilities

• Tuberculosis research
• General maintenance and containment procurement:
• Communication, organisation and time management
• Health and safety (H&S)

Person Specification


Method of assessment: A=Application, T=Test, I=Interview, P=Presentation


Behaviour Criteria

• Working Together (A, I)
• Communicating and Influencing (A, I)

Experience Criteria

• Experience in immunological or molecular assays, such as expertise in Flow Cytometry, cell-based assays, RNA/DNA extractions, PCR etc (A, I)
• Knowledge and practical experience of using in vitro or in vivo animal models to evaluate vaccine potency/immunogenicity or safety is desirable (A, I)
• Experience of managing and processing large complex data sets and maintaining databases of information (A, I)
• Demonstrated experience working at the Containment Level III and ideally with Mycobacterium tuberculosis (A, I)

Technical Criteria

• Demonstrate good knowledge of and practical experience in cellular immunoassays (A, I)
• A degree in a relevant field, or equivalent experience (A, I)

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, of no more than 1,000 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.
• Interview, which can include questions based on the Behaviour, Experience, Technical and Strengths Success Profiles.

In the instance that we receive a high number of applications, we will hold an initial sift based on the lead criteria of Experience in immunological or molecular assays, such as expertise in Flow Cytometry, cell-based assays, RNA/DNA extractions, PCR etc.

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 statement of suitability provided. You can view the criteria for this role in the job description.

Use of AI in Job Applications


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.


If you require any disability related adjustments at any point during the process, please contact
as soon as possible.

Closing date: 12 th August 2026

Shortlisting date: from 14 th August 2026

Interview date: from 24 th August 2026

If you need assistance applying for this role or have any other questions, please contact

Candidates will be…