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- Tasks: Join our team to develop and validate detection methods for human enteroviruses in clinical and wastewater samples.
- Company: Be part of the MHRA, a leader in transforming medical product regulation for better patient outcomes.
- Benefits: Enjoy a fixed-term contract with opportunities for innovation and collaboration in public health.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on public health by monitoring polio-free status and working with cutting-edge technology.
- Qualifications: PhD in a relevant field or equivalent experience, with strong skills in molecular assays and data analysis.
- Other info: This role is crucial for collaboration with the UK Health and Security Agency until March 2029.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Full time / Fixed term contract until 31 March 2029 The MHRA is transforming. Through enabling innovation, making the right judgements of the benefits and risks of medical products and forging the right partnerships in the UK and internationally, it aims to deliver world class regulation and improved outcomes for UK patients. We are currently looking for an experienced Senior Scientist to join our Global Specialised Polio Laboratory team within the Research & Development function in the Science, Research & Innovation group. The post holder will be responsible for undertaking laboratory-based work related to the use and further development and validation of direct detection methods for the identification and characterization of human enteroviruses in clinical and wastewater samples, particularly poliovirus as a key contribution to monitoring the polio-free status in the United Kingdom in collaboration with the UK Health and Security Agency (UKHSA). This will likely extend to the detection of additional viral targets such as SARS-CoV-2, norovirus, hepatitis A and E viruses and rotavirus as all have important public health relevance. The successful candidate will have a PhD in a relevant field or equivalent experience with evidence of R&D, experience with statistical analysis and interpreting results derived from large complex data sets, including complex sequencing data from next generation sequencing, and be highly skilled in molecular assays applicable to primarily human viruses. Closing date: 11 February 2025
Senior Scientist – Polio Laboratory employer: The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA)
Contact Detail:
The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Scientist – Polio Laboratory
✨Tip Number 1
Make sure to highlight your experience with laboratory-based work, especially in the context of human enteroviruses. Discuss any specific projects or research you've conducted that relate to poliovirus detection or similar viral targets.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarize yourself with the latest advancements in direct detection methods and molecular assays. Being able to discuss recent developments in these areas during your interview will demonstrate your commitment to staying at the forefront of research.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with statistical analysis and how you've interpreted complex data sets in previous roles. Providing concrete examples will help illustrate your analytical skills and their relevance to the position.
✨Tip Number 4
Network with professionals in the field, especially those involved with the UK Health and Security Agency (UKHSA). Building connections can provide valuable insights and potentially strengthen your application.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Scientist – Polio Laboratory
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Make sure to thoroughly read the job description for the Senior Scientist position. Understand the key responsibilities, required qualifications, and the specific skills needed, especially in molecular assays and statistical analysis.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasize your PhD or equivalent experience, particularly any R&D work related to human enteroviruses or similar viral targets. Provide specific examples of your laboratory-based work and any relevant projects.
Showcase Technical Skills: Detail your proficiency in molecular assays and your experience with next generation sequencing. Mention any specific techniques or methodologies you have mastered that are relevant to the role.
Tailor Your Application: Customize your application materials to reflect the values and goals of the MHRA. Highlight how your work aligns with their mission to improve public health outcomes and your interest in contributing to the polio-free status monitoring.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA)
✨Showcase Your Research Experience
Be prepared to discuss your previous research projects in detail, especially those related to virology and molecular assays. Highlight any specific methodologies you used and the outcomes of your work.
✨Demonstrate Statistical Analysis Skills
Since the role requires interpreting complex data sets, be ready to explain your experience with statistical analysis. Bring examples of how you've applied these skills in past projects, particularly in relation to large data sets.
✨Familiarize Yourself with Current Trends
Stay updated on the latest developments in polio research and other relevant viral diseases. Being knowledgeable about current challenges and innovations in the field will show your commitment and expertise.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect technical questions related to direct detection methods and molecular assays. Review key concepts and be ready to discuss how you would approach specific laboratory challenges that may arise in the role.
