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Job description

We are currently recruiting for a Biosafety Research Scientist to work within the Biosafety Team based with the Research & Evaluation Department at Porton Down.

The Biosafety, Air and Water Microbiology Group is an applied research group with a particular interest in how the indoor built environment contributes to the spread of infection. The successful candidate will join a multidisciplinary team with expertise in a variety of techniques that are used to study the survival, of microorganisms on surfaces, in water and the air.

The postholder will carry out research to better understand how the indoor built environment contributes to the spread of infection. There will be particular focus on contaminated linen, the dispersal of bacteria during bedmaking and the efficacy of laundry processes. The successful applicant will perform work in laboratories and in a bespoke research facility designed to simulate a full-scale hospital ward.

The successful applicant will join a team committed to carrying out applied microbiology research to inform respiratory pathogen infection control and prevent waterborne and emerging healthcare-associated infections.

The postholder will carry out research to better understand how the indoor built environment contributes to the spread of infection. There will be particular focus on contaminated linen, the dispersal of bacteria during bedmaking and the efficacy of laundry processes. The successful applicant will perform work in laboratories and in a bespoke research facility designed to simulate a full-scale hospital ward.

The successful applicant will be expected to:

• Carry out microbiology and molecular assays to investigate the contamination and decontamination of linen
• Utilise specialist sampling equipment to investigate the dispersal of microorganisms during activities such as bedmaking
• To accurately record the methods used and the results obtained.
• Communicate with colleagues including line manager and senior staff to ensure project deliverables are completed on time and operate to a high scientific standard.
• Take responsibility for the provision of reagents and consumables required for project area.

The Research and Evaluation department based at Porton has approximately 300 staff, performing a range of research activities, including high containment level work. The department’s work covers a broad range of projects involving the development and evaluation of interventions into a range of infectious diseases e.g., SARS-CoV-2, TB, meningitis, anthrax, and plague.

The Biosafety, Air and Water Microbiology Group carries out applied microbiology research to better understand how the indoor built environment contributes to the spread of infection. The team uses a variety of techniques to study the survival of microorganisms on surfaces, in water and in the air with the aim of providing evidence-based recommendations to prevent transmission.

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 workforceand wider communities. We do this through celebrating and protecting differences by removing barriers and promoting equity and equality of opportunity for all.

Responsibilities of the role includes:

• Undertake a range of microbiology, aerobiology, and molecular methods/assays/techniques in support of research and activities.
• Assist the project team to identify, evaluate and report new technologies and procedures
• Contribute to reports through data input and analysis
• Undertake all assigned work in accordance with UKHSA's Risk Management Systems, policies, and procedures
• To ensure that the project team undertakes work in accordance with UKHSA’s Code of Safety Practice and to work within any Quality Systems that are applicable to the site
• To act in accordance with the UKHSA values and behaviours.
• To perform any other duties required by the Line manager commensurate with grade

Please refer to the job description and person specification for further information.

Selection process details

STAGE 1 - APPLICATION & SIFT:
You will be required to complete an application form of no more than 500 words. This will be assessed in line with the advertised essential criteria.

If you are successful at this stage, you will progress to a face-to-face interview based at UKHSA Porton Down, Salisbury. Alternatively, a Teams interview can be offered.

STAGE 2 – INTERVIEW:
All candidates who are successful at the sift stage will undertake a face to face or single video interview.

All applicants that progress to interview will be assessed on their technical experience and a blended interview against a mixture of Behaviours and Strength elements of Success Profiles.

The Behaviours tested during the interview stage will be:

• Making Effective Decisions
• Communicating and Influencing
• Working Together

Expected Timeline:
Advert close: 23:55hrs on 21st June 2023 – unfortunately, late applications will not be considered. Once this job has closed, the job advert will no longer be available. You may want to save a copy for your records.

Shortlist: 28th 2023

Interviews: w/c 3rd July 2023

Please note these dates could be subject to change.
Feedback will only be provided if you attend an interview or assessment.