Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team to develop and validate detection methods for human enteroviruses in clinical samples.
- Company: Be part of the MHRA, a leader in medical product regulation and innovation in the UK.
- Benefits: Enjoy a fixed-term contract with opportunities for impactful research and collaboration.
- Why this job: Contribute to public health by monitoring polio-free status and working on viral detection.
- Qualifications: PhD or equivalent experience in relevant fields; expertise in molecular assays and data analysis required.
- Other info: This role is crucial for enhancing public health safety and involves collaboration with UKHSA.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 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
Emphasize your skills in statistical analysis and how you've successfully interpreted complex data sets in previous roles. Providing examples of how you've used these skills to drive research outcomes can set you apart.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your understanding of public health relevance in your application. Discuss how your work contributes to monitoring and improving health outcomes, particularly in relation to polio and other viruses mentioned in the job description.
✨Tip Number 4
Network with professionals in the field, especially those involved with the UK Health and Security Agency (UKHSA). Building connections can provide insights into the role and may even lead to a referral, increasing your chances of landing the job.
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 work related to human enteroviruses or similar viral targets. Provide specific examples of your R&D experience and how it relates to the role.
Showcase Technical Skills: Detail your proficiency in molecular assays and your experience with next generation sequencing. Mention any relevant software or tools you are familiar with for statistical analysis and data interpretation.
Tailor Your Application: Customize your cover letter to reflect your passion for public health and your interest in contributing to the polio-free status in the UK. Make sure to connect your background and skills directly to the mission of the MHRA.
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 enteroviruses or similar pathogens. Highlight any innovative methods you developed or utilized, and how they contributed to the field.
✨Demonstrate Statistical Proficiency
Since the role requires experience with statistical analysis, be ready to explain your approach to interpreting complex data sets. Bring examples of how you've used statistical tools in past projects to derive meaningful insights.
✨Familiarize Yourself with Current Trends
Stay updated on the latest developments in virology and public health, particularly regarding poliovirus and other relevant viruses like SARS-CoV-2. This knowledge will show your commitment to the field and your ability to contribute to ongoing research.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect technical questions related to molecular assays and next-generation sequencing. Review key concepts and be ready to discuss specific techniques you have mastered, as well as any challenges you faced and how you overcame them.
