At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team to research and develop TB vaccines, making a real difference in public health.
- Company: Be part of the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency, enhancing health for millions.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, health benefits, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Work in a dynamic environment with excellent career progression opportunities.
- Why this job: Contribute to groundbreaking research that impacts global health and vaccine innovation.
- Qualifications: Experience in immunological assays and a degree in a relevant field is essential.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
We are currently looking for a Higher Scientist (TBVAC) to join our Research and Development Function within the Science, Research and Innovation group. This is a full-time opportunity, on a fixed term contract basis until 18th August 2027. The role will be based in South Mimms, Hertfordshire.
The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency enhance and improve the health of millions of people every day through the effective regulation of medicines and medical devices, underpinned by science and research. The Science, Research and Innovation Group delivers public health impact, world-leading research innovation, and a unique regulatory proposition for patients and users via an ambitious Science Strategy which will balance innovation against sustainability and affordability. It is divided into 6 sub-Groups: Innovation Accelerator, Clinical Investigations and Trials, Research and Development, Standards Lifecycle, Control Testing and Quality Assurance and Health & Safety. Within R&D sits the Vaccines team of around 60 scientists in 8 Research groups.
The post holder will support work in the Tuberculosis research field in understanding TB vaccine protective responses, vaccination strategies and studying pulmonary/extrapulmonary TB pathogenesis. The role encompasses working with in vitro and in vivo models.
Key responsibilities:
- Tuberculosis research
- General maintenance and containment procurement
- Communication, organisation and time management
- Health and safety (H&S)
Person Specification:
Method of assessment: A=Application, T=Test, I=Interview, P=Presentation
Behaviour Criteria:
- Working Together (A, I)
- Communicating and Influencing (A, I)
Experience Criteria:
- Experience in immunological or molecular assays, such as expertise in Flow Cytometry, cell-based assays, RNA/DNA extractions, PCR etc (A, I)
- Knowledge and practical experience of using in vitro or in vivo animal models to evaluate vaccine potency/immunogenicity or safety is desirable (A, I)
- Experience of managing and processing large complex data sets and maintaining databases of information (A, I)
- Demonstrated experience working at the Containment Level III and ideally with Mycobacterium tuberculosis (A, I)
Technical Criteria:
- Demonstrate good knowledge of and practical experience in cellular immunoassays (A, I)
- A degree in a relevant field, or equivalent experience (A, I)
If you would like to find out more about this fantastic opportunity, please read our Job Description and Person Specification!
Closing date: 12th August 2026
Shortlisting date: from 14th August 2026
Interview date: from 24th August 2026
Higher Scientist (TBVAC) employer: Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency
The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in the heart of Canary Wharf, London. With a strong commitment to employee growth, the agency provides opportunities for professional development and collaboration with leading experts in healthcare and research. The hybrid working model promotes a healthy work-life balance, while the agency's focus on innovation and public health ensures that employees contribute to meaningful projects that enhance the well-being of millions.
Contact Details:
Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Higher Scientist (TBVAC)
✨Get Involved in Local Research Communities
Tap into local biotechnology meetups and research forums. These are great places to mingle with industry professionals, share your passion, and even discover unadvertised job openings. It's all about getting your face known in the field!
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✨Show Off Your Projects
Curate a portfolio showcasing any research projects or internships you've completed in biotechnology. This tangible evidence of your skills can really impress employers when you chat with them at networking events or interviews. It's about making that killer first impression!
✨Stay Up-to-Date with Industry Trends
Biotech is a fast-paced field, so keeping yourself updated with the latest advancements is crucial. Attend industry conferences, webinars, or workshops to broaden your knowledge and meet potential employers. Plus, it’ll give you fantastic talking points for your interviews at places like Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency!
We think you need these skills to ace Higher Scientist (TBVAC)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Lab Skills:In the biotechnology field, it's super important to highlight your lab experience in your CV. Be sure to mention specific techniques or instruments you've mastered (think PCR, gel electrophoresis, etc.) and any relevant projects you've worked on. This will show Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency that you have the hands-on skills they need.
Tailor Your Technical Skills:Make sure to emphasise your technical skills, especially those relevant to the biotechnology sector. Include any software tools or programming languages you've used, like R or Python for data analysis, which could be key for this role at Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Since this is a full-time role, your cover letter should reflect not only your passion for biotechnology but also your long-term career ambitions. Share why you're excited about the work that Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency does and how you envision contributing to their goals. This shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but you're genuinely invested in this opportunity.
Include Your Papers and Projects:If you've published any papers or contributed to significant projects, mention them! These documents can boost your application and provide tangible evidence of your expertise in the biotechnology field. Don’t forget to link to any relevant publications or project summaries—this can set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency
✨Brush Up on Lab Techniques
Since you're eyeing a full-time gig in biotechnology, make sure you're well-versed in the lab techniques relevant to the role. Be ready to talk about PCR, CRISPR, or any specific methods mentioned in the job description at Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency. You might even be asked to demonstrate your understanding of these processes.
✨Know Your Bioinformatics Tools
Get comfortable with bioinformatics tools that are commonly used in the industry, like BLAST or Bioconductor. These are key in biotechnology, and having hands-on experience or at least familiarity can set you apart. Prepare to discuss any relevant projects you've worked on, especially if they involved data analysis or genomic research.
✨Show Your Teamwork Skills
Biotech often involves collaboration across multiple disciplines. Be ready to share stories that highlight your teamwork and communication skills, especially in research projects. Think about working with different teams at university or any internships – this is where you can show how well you fit into Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency's culture.
✨Research Recent Biotech Innovations
Stay updated on the latest trends and breakthroughs in biotechnology. Knowing what's happening in the field can help you engage in more meaningful discussions during your interview. Bring up recent articles or advancements that excite you, especially those related to the work being done at Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency. This shows your passion for the industry!
