LIMS & Quality Assistant

The Pirbright Institute delivers world-leading research to understand, predict, detect and respond to viral disease outbreaks.

We study viruses of livestock that are endemic and exotic to the UK, including zoonotic viruses, by using the most advanced tools and technologies to understand host-pathogen interactions in animals and arthropod vectors.

Our major strength in understanding the immune systems of livestock provides a platform to control current diseases and respond to emerging threats.

This important research would not be possible without the proportionate use of animals, which are integral to the development of new disease control measures such as vaccines and diagnostics.

We have an establishment-wide commitment to the 3Rs (replacement, reduction and refinement), high standards of animal welfare, a culture of care and openness.

Our Institute is made up of a dynamic and vibrant community of staff covering a diverse set of chosen fields, backgrounds and experience.

We all play a crucial role in furthering the Institute’s aspirations, advancing the frontiers of science and knowledge through our excellent scientific research, knowledge sharing and contribution; with a real focus in improving the world in which we live.

Our outlook is always balanced by our strong sense of purpose, values and behaviours and an unwavering commitment to a ‘one Institute’ approach.

Organisation position and purpose

An exciting new role for someone who would like to gain further knowledge in quality systems and processes within a life sciences environment.

The role provides an opportunity to learn the applicability and use of different systems owned by the Quality & Assurance Team.

The role is ideal for someone that has used electronic systems within a laboratory environment.

The Quality Systems Assistant will administer the Pirbright LIMS providing support to users.

They will support the day-to-day activities that ensure the proper functioning of the LIMS.

They will report to the LIMS Analyst and are expected to work closely with users to ensure that Pirbright LIMS is managed effectively, remains compliant, accessible and fit for purpose.

As part of the Quality & Assurance Team at Pirbright, the Quality Systems Assistant will also actively contribute to the management and improvement of the Pirbright Management System.

The expected split for the role is dependent on priorities, but it is expected to be 60% on Pirbright’s LIMS and 40% on quality assurance processes.

The ideal candidate will have previous experience in working with electronic sample and laboratory test management systems; experience as a LIMS user is desirable in a laboratory environment under a formal quality management system.

The ideal candidate should have proven cross-collaboration experience within an organisation, be able to identify issues and solutions, and execute action plans that lead to resolution.

Main duties and responsibility

• Management and administration of the Pirbright LIMS: 60%
• Provide day-to-day support in use of LIMS (all applications).
• Administer the LIMS Service Desk inbox providing first line response.
• Ensure all queries, request of work, issues are responded to and closed within time frames.
• Ensure all change controls are appropriately completed and closed.
• When required, assist with system customisation, user access/ profiles and user defined fields.
• Prepare and present the LIMS KPIs dashboard to stakeholders.
• Complete validation of changes and regression testing. Complete and document testing scripts to ensure the LIMS remains fit for purpose.
• Deputise for LIMS Analyst as needed.
• Provide training of users on LIMS.
• Owner of the LIMS Hub.
• Quality administrative responsibilities: 40%
• Collate and prepare metrics to contribute to assurance dashboards.
• Monitor investigations and outcomes from audits to ensure processes are adhered to.
• Conduct process based audits, as per annual plan, to demonstrate conformity to the Pirbright Management System .
• Carry out document ‘life cycle’ including creation, drafting, amendment, assigning workflows, reviewing, indexing, change requests, approval, etc. Provide support to users.
• Provide training new starters on Pirbright Management System and quality systems.
• Support quality initiatives and action plans.

This job description is only an outline of the tasks, responsibilities and outcomes required of the role.

The jobholder will carry out any other duties as may be reasonably required by his/her line manager.

The job description and personal specification may be reviewed on an ongoing basis in accordance with the changing needs of The Pirbright Institute.

• Specific requirements
• Experience working in a laboratory environment, preferably in a diagnostic setting.
• Experience of working under a quality management system (ISO or Gx P).
• Experience as a LIMS or equivalent laboratory database user.
• Effective communication skills that can translate technical information for a non-technical audience.
• Educated to a life sciences degree or equivalent.
• Working experience of LIMS, or an equivalent laboratory database, as a superuser or admin.
• Working knowledge of ISO/ IEC 17025
• Ability to effectively train others e. g., presentation skills
• Experience working with Share Point.

Due to the nature of the work carried out by Pirbright, all successful applicants will be required to go through a comprehensive screening process including reference and qualification checks, financial and security clearances.

What we offer

• Group Personal Pension Scheme and life cover (subject to age and earnings)
• 25 days annual leave per annum, pro rata, plus public and privilege days
• Buy and sell annual leave (up to 5 days)
• Option to carry over up to 10 days annual leave (pro-rated)
• Pirbright gym with subsidised membership
• Pirbright social club
• Pirbright Lifestyle Hub (employee discount site)
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