Fixed Term Contract
We're currently seeking Principal Scientists based in and around Warwickshire to work within a state of the art, high output diagnostics laboratory environment as part of the UK's NHS Test and Trace programme, helping society's return to a more normal way of life.
Gain invaluable experience and exposure to some of the country's most highly skilled individuals in the scientific community and join a supportive environment where training and accreditation (where relevant) will be provided for this role.
What you can expect:
The Principal Scientist will lead the day-to-day operational and technical delivery of multiple lab lines, conducting end-to-end patient testing process of COVID-19 samples. This position also includes:
Accountable for the performance, welfare and engagement of several large teams across multiple lab lines
Development and upskilling of lab staff including ongoing staff development through the Training Academy
Support the design and implementation of scientific assays where appropriate
Accountable for the successful flow of the end-to-end process across all lab lines, achieving key Turnaround Targets for each line
Act as a mentor and final escalation point for any technical and scientific issues, and determine correct means of resolution, including technical issue investigation and process efficiency improvements
Identify continuous improvement opportunities to enhance the procedures, systems and principles, and oversee the testing and introduction of any new methodologies
Maintain continuous end-to-end communication between the various lab lines, including clear and concise handovers, to ensure a smooth transition between shifts
What we're looking for:
BSc or MSc Biomedical Science / Life Sciences
Significant experience of working within a Containment Level 2 Bioscience Lab setting, including experience of handling human biological samples
Significant managerial experience dealing with large, diverse teams and performance issues, including direct line management and lab team lead experience
Demonstrated capability to build a new lab-based team and rapid scale up of operations
Experience of maintaining documents and working within laboratories accredited to ISO15189:2012 or ISO17025:2019
Exceptional communication and organisation skills and attention to detail
Knowledge or experience of Risk Assessments
In return:
You will receive a minimum 18-month contract with opportunity to go permanent and competitive rate of pay and a 10% retention payment (paid at 9 and 18 months). Please note, successful candidates will be required to spend a minimum 3 weeks in training working flexible day patterns (including some weekends) before transitioning onto your shift. Additional benefits include Company Sick Pay, Covid Sick Pay and Overtime Pay.
Working hours and shift times
The role will work on a fixed night shift pattern (including some weekend work) with staggered start times.
For further information on shift patterns and start / end times, please speak to the team to learn more.
Compliance checks
Please be aware that Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) including a media check is the required level of screening for all staff working at the Leamington Spa Laboratory.
Diversity at NHS Test and Trace
You will be joining a diverse and hugely welcoming team that reflects the communities we serve. We aim to foster a culture where individuals of all backgrounds feel confident in bringing their whole selves to work, feel included and empowering them to contribute fully at work.
If you're ready for a new challenge and want to be part of the team delivering this essential lab work, please apply today.
Please note: Impellam Group is working in partnership with NHS Test and Trace, so you will be employed on a fixed-term employment basis with an Employing Agency (either SRG, Medacs, Lorien or Blue Arrow) within Impellam Group, in line with contractual employment terms and conditions set out by the respective Employing Agency, and not directly employed by NHS Test and Trace.
