At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative research on antiviral resistance and enhance clinical service delivery.
- Company: Join the UK Health Security Agency, a leader in public health.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Hybrid working model with a focus on inclusivity and diversity.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in public health while advancing your career.
- Qualifications: PhD in Microbiology or Biological Science and HCPC registration required.
The predicted salary is between 60417 - 60417 £ per year.
The Principal Clinical Scientist will provide leadership and expertise in developing and implementing clinical and reference service delivery, surveillance and a programme of research for antiviral resistances to Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), Hepatitis C Virus (HCV), Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) and other viruses causing chronic infections where antivirals may be used for clinical management. They will ensure effective and timely delivery and advice on clinical, reference, specialist and research activities within remit.
Main duties of the job
- Strategy and Leadership
- Provide effective scientific leadership to implementation and provision of end-to-end services for antiviral resistance within AVU.
- Maximise efficient and flexible use of resources for LEAN service delivery.
- Plan, develop, implement and direct with Unit Head a long-term strategy and programme of research for the specialist area.
- Adopt new technologies and quality innovations to maximise the effectiveness of AVU clinical and reference services.
- Other Managerial
- Participate in Virus Reference Department (VRD) Senior Management Team meetings and in higher level meetings.
- Develop professional/management expertise by undertaking further appropriate training.
- Support career and professional development of staff within the team.
- Manage staff, conduct staff appraisals of direct reports and manage performance issues.
- Ensure provision of a safe working environment for all staff and visitors.
- Contribute to maintaining a high profile for specialisms amongst key stakeholders in the UK and abroad.
- Help to maintain lab accreditation e.g. with UK Accreditation Service (UKAS) or its successors and other agreed national/international standards.
- Act as an advisor and a source of expert and specialist information for the Unit and UKHSA and deputise for Unit Head.
About us
We pride ourselves as being an employer of choice, where Everyone Matters promoting equality of opportunity to actively encourage applications from everyone, including groups currently underrepresented in our workforce. UKHSA ethos is to be an inclusive organisation for all our staff and stakeholders. To create, nurture and sustain an inclusive culture, where differences drive innovative solutions to meet the needs of our workforce and wider communities.
Job responsibilities
- SCIENTIFIC AND EPIDEMIOLOGICAL
- Advise AVU and VRD Senior Staff on all aspects of work associated with specialisms especially implementation of Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) for service delivery.
- Assess methodologies regularly to provide on-going improvement in services and provide expert advice and knowledge on the scientific basis of clinical and reference service tests and results.
- Develop, evaluate and implement methods relevant to the specialist area.
- Produce peer-reviewed publications on the results of research activities, and develop/review/edit manuscripts, documents, protocols, procedures, guidelines, and other measurable outputs.
- Provide scientific advice and support in relation to internal quality controls and external quality assessment, proficiency testing and reference materials in collaboration with the UK National External Quality Assessment Service for Microbiology (NEQAS), UK HIV Resistance Network and other organisations.
- Present research findings at local/national/international scientific meetings.
- CLINICAL/PROFESSIONAL
- Ensure robust arrangements for Clinical Governance for activities relating to the specialist areas.
- Ensure the probity and integrity of research undertaken.
- Provide cover for other Clinical Scientist by validating reports at medical level on Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS).
- INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
- Contribute to development of efficient and user-friendly information technology systems and databases including appropriate databases and tools for analysis of WGS data and extraction of key information for clear, concise reports for service delivery.
- Use appropriate software packages for word processing, presentations, data analysis, and specialist bioinformatics packages.
- Liaise with LIMS team on the introduction of new tests.
- TEACHING/TRAINING
- Promote the personal and professional development of staff through creation of personal development plans, regular performance review, and identification and meeting of training needs.
- Ensure junior staff and assigned visitors or trainees are competent to carry out the tasks given to them, ensuring that levels of supervision are sufficient.
- Develop and supervise postgraduate research projects and support the organisation of, and participate in, training programmes for staff and visitors.
- QUALITY
- Maintain a high standard of work and appraise and contribute to developing services so they are safe, effective and economical and follow best practice.
- Work towards ensuring an efficient quality management system.
- Contribute to internal/external quality assurance programmes.
- Ensure compliance with UKAS and other accreditation and certification standards.
- Ensure continual development and compliance of internal/external audit programmes and corrective actions.
- SAFETY
- Agree safety objectives with managed staff and to review performance at appraisal and support Senior Management Team in carrying out duties regarding health, safety and welfare of self/staff/visitors.
- Ensure relevant UKHSA health & safety policies and lab safety committee recommendations and actions are implemented.
- Ensure implementation of remedial actions resulting from safety inspections and audits.
ESSENTIAL CRITERIA
- Educated to degree level in relevant subject (i.e. Microbiology or Biological Science).
- PhD or equivalent postgraduate degree in relevant subject (i.e. Microbiology or Biological Science).
- Relevant professional qualification: full registration with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) as Clinical Scientist.
- Extensive expertise in virology and antiviral resistance.
- Substantive experience in Public Health Microbiology in reference and diagnostic settings.
- Able to provide/receive highly complex information, negotiate and present to peers/others.
- Strong proficiency in applying analytical and statistical techniques using a variety of software/codebases including expert level knowledge of Python or other programming languages relevant to data and reproducible science.
DESIRABLE CRITERIA
- Proven record of research in relevant areas, including significant/relevant publications.
- Able to prioritise own work effectively and be able to direct activities of others with experience of managing and motivating a team and reviewing performance of individuals.
SELECTION PROCESS DETAILS
This vacancy will be assessed using a competency-based framework which will assess your qualifications, knowledge, experience, skills and abilities outlined in the 7 Essential Criteria in this job advert.
APPLICATION & SIFT (COMPETENCY-BASED)
At sift stage you will be assessed against the 7 Essential Criteria in this job advert. You will be required to complete:
- an Application Form (Employer/Activity history section on the application)
- a 1250 word Supporting Statement - DO NOT EXCEED 1250 WORDS AS WE WILL NOT CONSIDER ANY WORDS OVER THIS AMOUNT
This should outline how your skills, experience, and knowledge provide evidence of your suitability for the role. You will receive a joint score for your application form and supporting statement.
INTERVIEW (COMPETENCY-BASED)
You will be invited to a single face-to-face interview at our Colindale Lab. During the interview we will assess against your knowledge, experience, skills and abilities in relation to the 7 Essential Criteria in this advert.
You will be asked to prepare and present a 5-10 minute presentation including time for questions. The subject will be: What changes do you anticipate may impact the delivery of an antiviral resistance clinical service in the next 3-5 years, and how would you prepare for them?
ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
Open to all external applicants (anyone) from outside the Civil Service as well as internal applicants.
SALARY INFORMATION
Grade: AfC Band 8a £57,528 - £60,417 per annum, pro-rata. This role attracts HCAS Outer: 15% of annual salary, subject to a minimum payment of £4,870 and a maximum payment of £6,137.
LOCATION
This role is being offered as hybrid working based at our Colindale lab, 61 Colindale Avenue, London NW9 5EQ.
SECURITY CLEARANCE LEVEL REQUIREMENT
Successful candidates must pass a basic disclosure and barring security check. The level of security needed is Counter-Terrorist Check (CTC).
Principal Clinical Scientist in Vauxhall employer: National Health Service
Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and collaborative work environment for healthcare professionals in North Wales. With a commitment to employee development and a focus on compassionate care, staff have access to continuous professional development opportunities and the chance to make a meaningful impact in both acute and community paediatrics. The Health Board's integrated approach ensures that employees are part of a dynamic team dedicated to improving health outcomes for the local population.
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We think you need these skills to ace Principal Clinical Scientist in Vauxhall
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Experience:When applying for the Principal Clinical Scientist at National Health Service, focus on highlighting your clinical experience and any specific training you've undergone. Include any relevant placements or internships you’ve completed, as well as any certifications that bolster your qualifications in human medicine.
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Tailor Your Cover Letter Thoughtfully:Be sure to personalise your cover letter for the Principal Clinical Scientist at National Health Service. Mention why you’re passionate about human medicine and how you align with the company’s mission. This is your chance to convey your enthusiasm and make a case for why you'll be a valuable addition to the team!
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How to prepare for a job interview at National Health Service
✨Brush Up on Clinical Knowledge
Since you're aiming for a role in human medicine, make sure you’re sharp on the latest clinical guidelines and practices relevant to the position. Be prepared to discuss case studies or scenarios you might encounter in the role. This will show that you're not just knowledgeable but also ready to apply that knowledge in real-life situations.
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✨Know Your CV Backwards
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