At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a dynamic team to diagnose rare pathogens and contribute to groundbreaking research.
- Company: UK Health Security Agency, a leader in infectious disease diagnostics.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working options, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Hybrid working model with a focus on inclusivity and innovation.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in public health while advancing your scientific career.
- Qualifications: HCPC registration and experience in microbiology/virology required.
The predicted salary is between 57528 - 64750 £ per year.
The Rare and Imported Pathogens Laboratory (RIPL) is an ISO:15189 accredited laboratory which provides a clinical diagnostic service for rare, high consequence and difficult to diagnose pathogens, including arboviruses, rickettsiae, leptospirosis, viral haemorrhagic fevers, Lyme disease, and a range of ACDP hazard group 3 bacteria including Bacillus anthracis and Francisella tularensis. In 2025, RIPL introduced a diagnostic Bartonella service providing PCR and serological testing. RIPL works closely with other UKHSA departments covering a wide range of infectious disease services and associated epidemiology services. RIPL is also home to the national Imported Fever Service, a partnership between RIPL clinicians and clinicians from the Hospital for Tropical Diseases (University College Hospitals, London) and the Liverpool Tropical Infectious Disease Unit.
We are seeking a HCPC registered Clinical Scientist who will be based at RIPL, UKHSA Porton Down. They will have experience in providing clinical diagnostic services in microbiology/virology, with a particular interest in diagnostics.
Main duties of the job:
- Interpret and report results from RIPL and liaise with clinicians and other healthcare professionals on relevant aspects of patient management (e.g. additional testing and investigations).
- Act as a link between the laboratory and front-line medical professionals.
- Support the development and provision of specialist services.
- Work with other members of the clinical, laboratory and research teams to introduce a routine containment level 3 bacterial culture capability into RIPL.
- Contribute to the development and establishment of methodologies for investigating relevant viral and bacterial infections.
- Contribute to the introduction of new diagnostic methodologies into the unit to ensure that a comprehensive service is provided for imported diseases.
- Contribute to outbreak investigations including participation in relevant UKHSA enhanced incident responses.
- Through example, discussion and daily working practice, educate and encourage junior members of staff in the interpretation and significance of laboratory work for patient management.
- Establish collaborations with other UKHSA laboratories, academic institutions and laboratories in the UK and abroad.
Essential Criteria:
- HCPC registration as a Clinical Scientist in Microbiology.
- Experience in practical bacteriology/virology.
- Experience in molecular and serological diagnostics.
- Awareness of biosafety/biosecurity relevant to the post.
- Experience in clinical microbiology/virology.
- Ability to scope new ideas and concepts on your own initiative and work outside your previous experience, including responding to sudden unexpected demands whilst maintaining a professional calm and efficient manner.
- Ability to assess complex/novel situations and topics by applying fundamental scientific principles, and gather, analyse, interpret and critically assess complex information.
Desirable Criteria:
- Knowledge of disease characteristics and management of pathogens relevant to the post.
- Experience of working at containment level 3.
- Evidence of engagement with quality improvement activity.
- Evidence of peer-reviewed research.
Location: This role is being offered as hybrid working based at our laboratory in Porton Down - UKHSA Porton, Manor Farm Road, Porton Down, Salisbury, Wiltshire SP4 0JG.
We offer great flexible working opportunities at UKHSA and operate using a hybrid working model where business needs allow.
Clinical Scientist in Salisbury employer: National health service
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment at the Porton Down Laboratory, where innovation and collaboration thrive. With a strong commitment to employee development, flexible working arrangements, and a culture that values diversity and inclusion, UKHSA empowers its staff to make meaningful contributions to public health while enjoying a supportive and engaging workplace. Join us in our mission to tackle rare and high-consequence pathogens and be part of a team that truly makes a difference.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Clinical Scientist in Salisbury
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Follow health policy news and trends—being knowledgeable about the current landscape will not only help you in interviews but also make you stand out as a candidate. You can discuss recent developments and their implications when chatting with folks at National health service.
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We think you need these skills to ace Clinical Scientist in Salisbury
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Relevant Experience:When applying for a role in health sciences administration, it's super important to spotlight any relevant experience you have in healthcare settings. Whether you've worked in a hospital, a clinic, or any related environment, make sure to detail those roles in your CV – focusing on your responsibilities and achievements that align with the job at National health service.
Showcase Your Administrative Skills:Administrative skills are key in this field, so don’t hold back! Make sure your CV reflects your proficiency in things like scheduling, data management, and compliance with health regulations. Mention specific software you’ve used, such as patient management systems, as this will demonstrate your hands-on abilities and readiness for the role at National health service.
Craft a Meaningful Cover Letter:Your cover letter should reflect your passion for the health sciences field and your eagerness to contribute to National health service. Share a bit about why you’re drawn to this sector, any impactful situations or challenges you’ve encountered, and how they’ve shaped your desire to work in health sciences administration. This personal touch can really set you apart!
Tailor Your Documents to the Job:Don't use a one-size-fits-all approach! Make sure your CV and cover letter are specifically tailored for this role. Highlight any certifications you have relevant to health administration, and ensure you clearly connect your previous roles to the skills needed for the full-time position at National health service. This way, you're showing them you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in being a part of their team.
How to prepare for a job interview at National health service
✨Showcase Your Administrative Skills
In health sciences administration, being organised is key. Make sure you can demonstrate your skills in managing schedules, paperwork, and data accurately. Be ready to discuss specific tools you've used, like electronic health record systems or scheduling software, and how they improved efficiency in your past experiences.
✨Know Your Regulations
Familiarity with healthcare regulations and compliance is crucial. Brush up on HIPAA, GDPR, or other relevant policies before your interview. We recommend preparing examples of how you've ensured compliance or handled sensitive information in past roles—this will show you're not just knowledgeable but also responsible.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Interviews for administrative roles often involve scenario-based questions to assess your problem-solving skills. Practice responses to common situations you might face, such as dealing with a challenging patient or managing a sudden schedule change. This will not only demonstrate your ability to think on your feet but also highlight your interpersonal skills.
✨Align Your Goals with the Organisation
As a full-time candidate, employers will want to know how your long-term career goals align with their mission. Take some time to research National health service’s values and be ready to tie your passion for health sciences administration into their objectives. Demonstrating enthusiasm and career alignment can be a game-changer in this competitive field!
