Opportunity to go permanent
We're currently seeking Principal Scientists for Genetic Sequencing 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 (Genetic Sequencing) will lead the day-to-day operational and technical delivery of two lab lines, conducting ultra-high throughput next generation sequencing of positive COVID-19 samples for the assessment of variants. This position also includes:
Accountable for the performance, welfare and engagement of several large teams across multiple lab lines, with direct line management of 4 to 6 Associate Principal Scientists
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 both 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 genomics lab setting, including experience of handling RNA & DNA samples
Strong evidence of technical troubleshooting of scientific/lab processes and/or data/output analysis
Significant experience in molecular biology, including PCR, next generation genetic sequencing including library preparation
Experience of QPCR methodology or end-point PCR for the purposes of QC assessment
Significant managerial experience dealing with large, diverse teams and performance issues
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
Ability to solve complex problems under pressure and use initiative to promptly make informed decisions
Exceptional organisation skills and attention to detail
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). Additional benefits include Company Sick Pay, Covid Sick Pay and Overtime Pay. 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.
Working hours and shift times
The role will work on rotating day, 4 on/4 off 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.