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- Tasks: Conduct laboratory tests on vaccines and blood products to ensure quality and compliance.
- Company: Join the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency, enhancing public health daily.
- Benefits: Full-time role with opportunities for professional growth and skill development.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in public health while developing your scientific expertise.
- Qualifications: Experience in laboratory assays and a relevant degree or equivalent experience.
- Other info: Dynamic team environment with a focus on quality and regulatory science.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
We are currently looking for Scientists to join our Control Testing Function within the Science and Research group. This is a full‑time, permanent position based in South Mimms, Hertfordshire. Government departments and agencies are working towards implementing a minimum 60% attendance in office sites.
Who are we? The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency enhances and improves the health of millions of people every day through effective regulation of medicines and medical devices, underpinned by science and research. The Science and Research Group delivers public health impact through four sub‑groups: Control Testing, Research and Development, Standards Lifecycle, and Health & Safety and Quality Assurance. The Control Testing team ensures the quality of biological medicines by independently assessing and certifying batches of vaccines, blood products and plasma pools through laboratory testing and review of manufacturers’ data.
What’s the role? The post is for a laboratory‑based scientist who will be part of a team focused on laboratory testing for the characterisation of biological medicines as part of the UK’s independent batch release programme. The Control Testing team specialises in assays for separation science, immunochemistry, cell‑based assays, molecular analysis and biochemistry. The post holder will evaluate vaccines and blood products using a range of specialist assays and methods. Responsibilities include organising materials and reagents, managing samples for batch testing from receipt to reporting, and ensuring compliance with SOPs and ISO17025. This is an exciting opportunity to develop laboratory skills, enhance your knowledge of regulatory science and adhere to a quality system.
Key responsibilities
- Perform analytical tests, following SOPs and in compliance with ISO17025.
- Manage day‑to‑day registration of samples and error‑free data entry into a Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS).
- Maintain laboratory stocks of reagents and consumables.
- Responsible for equipment records.
Who are we looking for?
Our successful candidate will have:
- Experience in one or more assays used for the evaluation of vaccines and blood products (e.g., proteins, mRNA, viruses, coagulation factors, polysaccharides, chromatographic methods).
- Experience working in a laboratory setting.
- Excellent team‑working and communication skills.
- Good planning and time‑management skills.
- Ability to work accurately, following written and verbal instructions with attention to detail.
Person Specification
- Proficiency in performing laboratory assays required for testing biological samples in a CL2 laboratory.
- Ability to follow verbal and written instructions and ensure documents associated with laboratory testing are complete, accurate and comply with quality standards and regulations.
- Knowledge of document and records management, typically achieved through experience in a quality management system such as ISO17025.
- Experience using a Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) to ensure accurate data capture and review.
- Bachelor’s Degree in a relevant field or equivalent laboratory experience.
- Demonstrated precision, adaptability and organisational skills.
To find out more about this opportunity, please read our Job Description and Person Specification.
Please note: The job description may not open in some internet browsers. Please use Chrome or Microsoft Edge. If you have any issue viewing the job description, please contact careers@mhra.gov.uk.
Use of AI in Job Applications: Artificial Intelligence can be a useful tool to support your application. All examples and statements must be truthful, factually accurate and taken directly from your own experience. If plagiarism is identified, applications may be withdrawn. If you require any disability related adjustments at any point during the process, please contact careers@mhra.gov.uk as soon as possible.
Closing date: 12th April 2026
Shortlisting date: from 15th April 2026
Interview date: from 27th April 2026
For queries about the application process, contact careers@mhra.gov.uk.
Scientist employer: Mhra
Contact Detail:
Mhra Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Scientist
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees in the Control Testing team. A friendly chat can give us insider info and might even lead to a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your knowledge of assays and laboratory practices. We want to show that we’re not just passionate but also knowledgeable about the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice common interview questions related to teamwork and compliance with SOPs. We need to demonstrate our ability to work accurately and follow instructions under pressure.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure our application gets noticed and shows we’re serious about joining the team.
We think you need these skills to ace Scientist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience in laboratory settings and the specific assays mentioned in the job description. We want to see how your skills align with what we're looking for!
Show Off Your Team Spirit: Since teamwork is key in our Control Testing team, don’t forget to mention any collaborative projects or experiences you've had. We love to see how you work with others to achieve common goals!
Be Detail-Oriented: Attention to detail is crucial in our line of work. When filling out your application, double-check for any errors and ensure that all your documents are complete and accurate. We appreciate precision!
Apply Through Our Website: For the best chance of success, make sure to submit your application through our official website. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and get back to you quickly!
How to prepare for a job interview at Mhra
✨Know Your Assays
Make sure you brush up on the specific assays used for evaluating vaccines and blood products. Be ready to discuss your experience with techniques like immunochemistry or chromatographic methods, as this will show your expertise and relevance to the role.
✨Familiarise Yourself with SOPs and ISO17025
Since compliance with SOPs and ISO17025 is crucial, take some time to review these standards. Being able to articulate how you've adhered to quality systems in your previous roles will demonstrate your commitment to maintaining high laboratory standards.
✨Showcase Your Teamwork Skills
The role requires excellent team-working abilities, so think of examples where you've successfully collaborated with others in a lab setting. Highlighting your communication skills and how you contribute to a positive team dynamic can set you apart.
✨Prepare for Practical Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and attention to detail. Prepare to discuss how you manage samples and data entry in a Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS), as well as any challenges you've faced and how you overcame them.