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- Tasks: Join our team to develop and validate detection methods for human enteroviruses.
- Company: Be part of the MHRA, transforming healthcare regulation for better patient outcomes.
- Benefits: Enjoy a fixed-term contract with opportunities for innovation and collaboration.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on public health by monitoring polio-free status in the UK.
- Qualifications: PhD or equivalent experience in relevant fields; strong skills in molecular assays required.
- Other info: Work closely with the UK Health and Security Agency on vital health projects.
The predicted salary is between 42000 - 84000 £ 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 molecular assays and any specific techniques you've mastered. The role emphasizes skills in detecting human viruses, so showcasing relevant projects or research can set you apart.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarize yourself with the latest developments in enterovirus detection methods. Being able to discuss recent advancements or innovations during your interview will demonstrate your commitment to the field and your proactive approach.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with statistical analysis and handling complex data sets. This role requires interpreting large amounts of data, so being ready to share examples of how you've successfully managed similar tasks will be beneficial.
✨Tip Number 4
Network with professionals in the field, especially those involved with public health and virology. Engaging with the community can provide insights into the role and may even lead to valuable connections that could help 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 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 goals of the MHRA and the Global Specialised Polio Laboratory.
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 validated, as this aligns with the role's focus on laboratory-based work.
✨Demonstrate Statistical Analysis Skills
Since the position requires experience with statistical analysis, be ready to explain how you've used statistical tools to interpret complex data sets. Bring examples of how your analysis has contributed to research outcomes.
✨Familiarize Yourself with Current Public Health Issues
Stay updated on current public health challenges, particularly those related to poliovirus and other viral infections mentioned in the job description. This will show your commitment to the field and your understanding of its relevance.
✨Prepare Questions for the Interviewers
Think of insightful questions to ask about the team's current projects, collaboration with the UKHSA, and future directions of the laboratory. This demonstrates your interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
