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Job Introduction

The UKHSA , formally known as Public Health England are forming a Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI) Reference Laboratory, in Colindale, London, which will function as the national reference laboratory for bacterial STIs. The laboratory will offer specialist and reference testing to detect, investigate and characterize clinically important STI pathogens, and detect and monitor antimicrobial resistance in these. The laboratory uses established and developmental phenotypic and genotypic assays to define antimicrobial susceptibility of bacterial STIs to relevant antimicrobials for individual case management, as well as surveillance. In addition, UKHSA's objective is to define and investigate outbreaks and diagnostic escape mutants as well as offering diagnostic, scientific and clinical advice on STI infections to internal and external stakeholders.

Main Responsibilities

The Role:

• To work within the Sexually Transmitted Infections Reference Unit to deliver reference services and to participate in surveillance projects.
• To undertake basic microbiology and molecular laboratory duties under supervision guided by standard operating procedures, protocols or systems of work based on training provided, and taking into account the operational, safety and quality requirements of the laboratory.
• To process specimens, sub culture, and perform nucleic acid extractions, run controls and IQC samples according to given protocols as required following training.
• To assist in carrying out laboratory testing, including molecular techniques such as NA extraction, PCR (including real-time PCR) and DNA sequencing and standard microbiological procedures e.g Gram’s stain.
• To receive specimens, unpack and process requests in a timely manner, and in accordance with health and safety procedures.
• Carry out sample tracking; analysis and archiving of specimens received.
• To prepare, package and dispatch specimens or laboratory consumables to external customers, when necessary. This may include the shipment of specimens abroad where liaison with couriers/shipping agents is required, and requires compliance with IATA regulations.

This role is short term contract until 31st March 2023, with further possibility of extension.

The Ideal Candidate

Personal Specification:

• BSc 2.1 or above in Biomedical Sciences, equivalent degree or experience.
• Significant experience working in a laboratory with sexually transmitted bacterial pathogens or antimicrobial susceptibility testing.
• Significant experience of working in a laboratory including using Pre Analytical techniques applicable to Bacterial, Serological or Molecular methods.