Job Description

The Biosafety, Air and Water Microbiology Group carries out applied research with a focus on the indoor built environment - investigating how it contributes to the spread of infection and how it can be designed and operated to reduce this risk. The group employs a range of techniques to study microorganisms on surfaces, in water and in the air with studies being carried out in the laboratory, the field and within a purpose-built facility that simulates a full-scale hospital ward.



We are seeking a proactive and motivated scientist to support and lead research projects aimed at preventing and controlling opportunistic premise plumbing pathogens, with a particular emphasis on non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM). The role will involve investigating factors that influence the survival, persistence and dispersal of NTM and developing and validating methodologies suitable for both laboratory and field settings.



The post holder will also contribute to incident and outbreak response activities, conducting targeted investigations as appropriate. Findings will be used to inform inform evidence-based recommendations and guidance to improve patient safety.



This role offers the opportunity to join a dynamic, 'can-do' team committed to delivering impactful microbiology research that supports infection prevention in healthcare and other built environments.

As part of the main duties, you will be expected to:

Carry out research to improve our understanding of infection transmission within indoor environments.



Apply a range of microbiological, molecular and aerobiology methods to investigate the survival, persistence and dispersal of waterborne microorganisms, with a particular focus on non-tuberculosis mycobacteria (NTM).



Assess the effectiveness of infection prevention strategies, including innovative chemical and engineering interventions.



Analyse data using appropriate software and databases to meet project objectives and produce high-quality reports.



Communicate research findings through presentations and peer-reviewed publications.



Identify, evaluate and implement new procedures to ensure scientific rigour and continuous improvement.



Manage the provision of reagents and consumables required for project area.



This is not an exhaustive list.



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. We do this through celebrating and protecting differences by removing barriers and promoting equity and equality of opportunity for all.



Please visit our careers site for more information https://gov.uk/ukhsa/careers

The main responsibilities will include:

Lead a programme of work focused on water and water systems, conducting both laboratory and field-based studies to investigate the survival, persistence and dispersal of non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) using a range of microbiological and aerobiological methods.



Identify, evaluate and report on new technologies and procedures where appropriate, ensuring the project maintains high scientific standards.



Contribute to project reporting through data input, analysis and interpretation using relevant software and databases and disseminate findings through presentations and peer-reviewed publication.



Engage with external stakeholders, including NHS Trusts, to support collaborative research and knowledge exchange.



Manage the provision of reagents and consumables for the project area, ensuring deliverables are met on time and within budget



Carry out all assigned work in accordance with UKHSA's Risk Management Systems, policies and procedures.



Ensure compliance with UKHSA's Code of Safety Practice and applicable Quality Systems



Uphold UKHSA's values and behaviours in all aspects of work.



Perform any other duties as required by the line manager, commensurate with grade.



This is not an exhaustive list.



Essential role criteria

Relevant academic background and experience:

An undergraduate (bachelor's) degree in microbiology or related discipline and demonstrable experience in laboratory and/or field-based microbiology research

Technical expertise:

Practical knowledge and hands-on experience in core microbiological techniques, including bacterial culture, environmental sampling, molecular methods, and safe use of containment equipment

Professional skills and behaviours:

Proven ability to work both independently and as part of a team, with strong organisational skills, attention to detail and a commitment to safe working practices and continual professional development



Desirable role criteria



Relevant post-graduate qualification (MSc; PhD)



Demonstrable experience in the isolation, culture, and identification of non-tuberculous mycobacteria



Practical knowledge of aerobiology and aerobiology techniques



Selection process



This vacancy is using Success Profiles and will assess your behaviours, strengths and experience.

Stage 1:

Application & Sift



You will be required to complete an application form. You will be assessed on the listed essential criteria, and this will be in the form of:



an application form ('Employer/ Activity history' section on the application)



a 750 word supporting statement



This should outline how your skills, experience, and knowledge, provide evidence of your suitability for the role, with reference to the essential criteria.



Please note you will not be able to upload your CV. You must complete the application form in as much detail as possible. Please do not email us your CV.



The Application form and supporting statement will be marked together.

Longlisting:

In the event of a large number of applications we will longlist into 3 piles of:



Meets all essential criteria



Meets some essential criteria



Meets no essential criteria



Only those meeting all essential criteria will be taken through to shortlisting.

Shortlisting:

In the event of a large number of applications we will shortlist on:

Technical expertise:

Practical knowledge and hands-on experience in core microbiological techniques, including bacterial culture, environmental sampling, molecular methods, and safe use of containment equipment



Desirable criteria may be used in the event of a large number of applications / large amount of successful candidates.



If you are successful at this stage, you will progress to interview and assessment.



Please do not exceed 750 words. We will not consider any words over and above this number.



Feedback will not be provided at this stage.

Stage 2:

Interview



You will be invited to a face to face interview. In exceptional circumstances, we may be able to offer a remote interview.



Behaviours, strengths and experience will be tested at interview.

The Behaviours tested during the interview stage will be:

Seeing the Big Picture



Making Effective Decisions



C ommunicating and Influencing



Interviews will be held week commencing 19th January 2026. Please note, these dates are subject to change.



Once this job has closed, the job advert will no longer be available. You may want to save a copy for your records.



Location



This role is based onsite in Porton Down. Please note that hybrid working is not available with this role.



Eligibility Criteria



Open to all external applicants (anyone) from outside the Civil Service (including by definition internal applicants).



Security Clearance Level Requirement



Successful candidates must pass a disclosure and barring security check.



Successful candidates must meet the security requirements before they can be appointed. The level of security needed is Counter Terrorism Check clearance. Failure to maintain the required level of clearance throughout the duration of your employment with UKHSA may result in the termination of employment.



For meaningful National Security Vetting checks to be carried out individuals need to have lived in the UK for a sufficient period of time. You should normally have been resident in the United Kingdom for the last 3 years as the role requires Counter Terrorism Check clearance.



UK residency less than the outlined periods may not necessarily bar you from gaining national security vetting and applicants should contact the Vacancy Holder / Recruiting Manager listed in the advert for further advice.