DNA Analyst in England

Eurofins Forensic Services (EFS) is the largest forensic service provider in the UK and Europe. We are part of Eurofins Scientific, which is an international life sciences company, providing a unique range of analytical testing services to clients across multiple industries, to make life and our environment safer, healthier and more sustainable.

An opportunity has arisen for a DNA analyst to join the laboratory testing team in the DNA Centre based in Birchwood Park. The role comprises carrying out high throughput DNA profiling of samples; working flexibly and communicating effectively to deliver results within contractual TRT’s and to the highest quality standards. This role is based on a 37.5-hour working week, operating on a rotating shift pattern:

• Week 1: 7:00am – 3:00pm
• Week 2: 2:00pm – 10:00pm

Monday to Friday, with 1 in 4 weekends included in the rota. A shift allowance will be provided in recognition of the alternating shift pattern and weekend work.

Key Accountabilities:

• To undertake testing and documentation of samples with minimal supervision, as per standard operating procedures to required timescales, following suitable training and demonstrable competencies.
• STR Profiling of various exhibits and samples as required, across a range of routine and specialist techniques including DNA extraction, quant, PCR, analysis and reporting of results.
• Adherence to good lab practice (GLP) and quality systems.
• Perform housekeeping duties including sample archiving and disposal, laboratory cleaning, maintenance of equipment and monitoring stock levels.
• Responsible for maintaining a right first-time approach to work, reporting any non-conformances or near misses to the local quality systems and implementing process improvements.
• Take a proactive approach to Continuous Improvement (CI) within all aspects of the role; striving to improve output and efficiency of both scientific and support tasks.
• Communicate effectively to team members and team leads to ensure a smooth flow of work through the laboratory process.

Qualifications:

The post is suited to people with experience of working in a high throughput, highly regulated environment. They will need to be able to work well as a member of a team and collaborate closely with colleagues performing similar roles. GLP is paramount in this working environment to ensure the integrity and traceability of the sample types received for testing. A practical background in the testing process is advantageous but not essential as full training will be provided.

Person Specification:

• Demonstrate ownership of issues that arise day to day, escalating only when necessary.
• Display patience, determination, attention to detail and integrity at all times.
• Exhibit high levels of concentration, accuracy and reliability.
• Able to manage a demanding workload; show good organisational skills and high levels of personal resilience with the ability to work to deadlines under pressure.
• Communicate and work co-operatively with others, focussing on a collective rather than individual goals.
• Demonstrate initiative, adopting a pro-active attitude to continuous improvement.

Additional Information:

Due to the highly sensitive nature of the work, applicants should note that security clearance is required for this role. To gain security clearance you must have five years continuous residency in the UK. Security clearance is undertaken by a third party to police personnel vetting standards (NPPV/3 and SC), as such any criminal convictions may prevent you from gaining security clearance. Further information on the security clearance process and requirement can be found at.

In addition, all successful applicants will be required to undertake drug and alcohol testing prior to commencing employment. In return for your hard work and loyal service, we will offer you a competitive salary, and a selection of employee benefits via our flexible benefits menu which includes cycle to work, give as you earn, volunteering days, buy and sell holiday.

In addition, we also offer the following:

• Life Assurance (3 times annual salary)
• Scottish Widows Company Pension Plan
• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays (increasing to a maximum of 30 days)
• Employee length of service awards and yearly recognition schemes, celebrating work anniversaries here at EFS.
• Discount vouchers and flexi reward points on our employee wellness hub.
• Everyone who joins EFS will have access to Perkbox allowing you to save money all year round on a wide range of perks such as supermarket savings, days out or your daily coffee.
• Learning and study support.
• Employee Assistance Programme.
• Enhanced company sick, maternity and paternity pay scheme.
• Refer a friend scheme.
• Subscription to mental health support and wellbeing.