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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a team in cutting-edge diagnostics research and development.
- Company: Join the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) in Hertfordshire.
- Benefits: Permanent position with opportunities for professional growth and collaboration.
- Why this job: Shape the future of diagnostics and make a real impact on healthcare.
- Qualifications: PhD with post-doctoral experience and a strong publication record.
- Other info: Dynamic role with leadership opportunities and international collaboration.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Full‑time, permanent position based in South Mimms, Hertfordshire.
Overview
The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) seeks a Head of Diagnostics to lead regulatory science‑focused research and development within the Research & Development function of the Scientific Research & Innovation group. The role will shape the strategic direction for diagnostics, including genomic diagnostics for cancer detection, neurodegeneration, antimicrobial resistance and vaccine serology, and will work closely with other MHRA divisions and external partners such as WHO and industry.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide leadership for and manage the Diagnostics team, overseeing the personal development of staff and students.
- Develop and direct an internationally recognised R&D programme that addresses key regulatory scientific questions and produces publishable data in high‑quality journals.
- Lead cross‑agency diagnostics work across the product lifecycle, focusing on NHS requirements and engagement with experts in trials, licensing, product and test harmonisation, and marketed product surveillance.
- Represent the Agency externally as an expert in regulation and standardisation/harmonisation of diagnostics, providing guidance to UK and international partners.
- Manage the safe use of laboratory facilities and equipment, including Bio‑containment Level 3, ensuring they remain fit for purpose.
Who are we looking for?
Leadership: Devise and present a clear, inspiring strategy with measurable outputs for internal and external stakeholders.
Experience: Significant experience leading programmes of scientific research that address regulatory questions in diagnostics and attract external grant funding.
Technical: PhD with post‑doctoral experience in a relevant technical scientific discipline.
Publication record: Evidence of contributing to regulatory science through a sustained record of publications in scientific journals.
Team Leadership: Confident in leading a team, managing dynamics and fostering a genuine team spirit.
Person Specification
Method of assessment: Application, Test, Interview, Presentation.
Behaviour Criteria: Leadership, Working Together.
Experience Criteria: Experience of leading research programmes addressing diagnostics regulatory questions; securing sustained external grant funding.
Technical Criteria: PhD with post‑doctoral experience in a relevant technical discipline; record of scientific publications.
Strengths Criteria: Analytical ability; team leadership skills.
Contact
For more information and to apply, please email or visit the MHRA careers website.
Head of Diagnostics in England employer: Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency
Contact Detail:
Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Diagnostics in England
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to professionals in the diagnostics field on LinkedIn or at industry events. We can’t stress enough how important it is to make connections that could lead to job opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the latest trends in diagnostics and regulatory science. We want you to be able to discuss your insights confidently, showing that you're not just a candidate but a thought leader in the field.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your presentation skills! You might need to present your ideas or past research during interviews. We recommend rehearsing with friends or using online tools to get comfortable and polished.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Diagnostics in England
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in leading scientific research programmes, especially in diagnostics. We want to see how your background aligns with the key responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: Since this role is all about leadership, don’t hold back on sharing examples of how you've successfully managed teams and projects. We’re looking for inspiring strategies and measurable outcomes that demonstrate your ability to lead effectively.
Highlight Your Publication Record: We love seeing a strong publication record! Make sure to include details of your contributions to regulatory science and any high-quality journals where your work has been published. This will help us gauge your expertise in the field.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your materials and ensures you’re considered for the position. We can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the latest developments in diagnostics, especially in areas like genomic diagnostics and regulatory science. Brush up on recent publications and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with the key responsibilities outlined in the job description.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your leadership experience, particularly in managing teams and driving research programmes. Think about specific instances where you’ve inspired your team or successfully navigated challenges in a collaborative environment.
✨Engage with the Role's Strategic Vision
Understand the strategic direction of the MHRA and how the Head of Diagnostics fits into that vision. Be ready to articulate your ideas on shaping R&D programmes and how you would engage with external partners like WHO to enhance the agency’s impact.
✨Practice Your Presentation Skills
Since the interview process includes a presentation, rehearse your delivery on a relevant topic. Make it engaging and informative, showcasing your ability to communicate complex scientific concepts clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences.