Job Description

Details

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Reference number

439434
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Salary

76,965 - 88,682
per annum, pro rata. Plus, Outer HCAS. Up to 15% of basic salary PA PR
GBP
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Job grade

Other
NHS AfC: Band 8c###

Contract type

Permanent###

Type of role

Science###

Working pattern

Flexible working, Full-time, Job share, Part-time###

Number of jobs available

1

Contents

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Location About the job Benefits Things you need to know Apply and further information

Location

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Colindale, London.

About the job

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Job summary

The Colindale Sequencing Laboratory (CSL) provides a variety of nucleic acid sequencing services using Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) and Sanger technology to sequence genomic DNA, PCR amplicons, or short DNA fragments, as well as providing DNA-based fragment analysis to size fluorescently labelled PCR products. For Sanger sequencing and fragment analysis, the unit receives nucleic acid, plasmids and PCR products from UKHSA and external customers. CSL also offers various levels of NGS for genomic DNA (usually bacterial DNA extracts) and PCR amplicons (usually generated from viral samples) to service users. NGS is currently performed using Illumina or Oxford Nanopore Technology (ONT) on the NextSeq, MiSeq or GridION. Sequence and fragment analysis data are checked by CSL staff against internal standards and quality scores before electronically notifying and reporting the results to our customers, who analyse their own data.


CSL has a strong service delivery focus and commitment to continuously improving methods for rapid and high throughput genomics to enhance its function.


The Unit Head of the CSL is responsible for leading and managing the routine provision, delivery and development of genomic services for customers of CSL and acts as the senior specialist for NGS and Sanger services. The post holder will be accountable for scientists within the unit, providing leadership and oversight for the day-to-today running and development of the NGS and Sanger services.

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Working for your organisation

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.

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Job description

Responsible for provision of expert scientific leadership, the strategic development and operational service delivery of the CSL. To advise Public Health Microbiology (PHM) Laboratories and UKHSA on best practice in laboratory sequencing. To manage the provision of an efficient, effective and timely service, ensuring maximum productivity within allocated resources/budgets and within agreed performance standards. To ensure the CSL offers genomic services under a Quality Management System in accordance with UKHSA policies, and Quality standards set by external accreditation bodies (e.g. UKAS). To be accountable for Health and Safety within the CSL. To ensure that the CSL delivers and develops services and provides expert advice for wider public health delivery, and also provides national and international specialist services and advice to customers. Provide leadership to ensure services contribute to the national development of genomics-based PHM delivery. Contribute to test development and validation. Review platform use and manage implementation of new equipment to support service delivery improvement. To maintain and further develop the national and international reputation of the CSL through development of strategic academic, public sector and other partnerships including funding application, participation, design, implementation and overall management of appropriate R&D projects. In partnership with PHM Laboratories staff, develop strong integration between nucleic acid extraction and upstream sample processing. Maintain strong linkages with the processing and analysis of sequence data.

Detailed job description and main responsibilities

To be responsible for the provision of expert advice and CSL services for clinically significant organisms, including the provision of interpretation of data for laboratory reports with expert comment and advice to Consultant Medical Microbiologists, Consultants in Health Protection, Senior Officers of the Department of Health and Social Care and other Government bodies and international Institutes. Work collaboratively with UKHSA and NHS laboratories and other Government bodies, Academic and international Institutes and provide support, leadership and strategy for the implementation and development of molecular technologies for Clinical PHM (supporting UKHSA, NHS and Academic and other institutes). On behalf of UKHSA provide expert scientific, professional and managerial inputs for the activities of Working Groups and Specialist committees in pathogen laboratory sequencing. To be responsible for the management, health and safety and training of CSL staff, visitors, trainees and PhD students. To maintain an awareness of Health and Safety and comply with current site requirement and ensure that relevant legislations and policies are implemented within CSL and ensure that it is compliant with statutory Health and Safety Regulations, including COSHH, together with the appropriate accreditation systems and that staff have appropriate registration and maintain participation with Continued Professional Development Schemes. To manage the CSL budget, including budget control, expenditure projections, equipment priorities, external funding and income generation activities. Manage the quality, performance and verification of the accredited CSL laboratory services ensuring compliance with UKAS standards. To assist in the operation of PHM Laboratories by membership of PHM Management Groups. To represent CSL and PHM laboratories at internal/external, local, national & international meetings and committees. To lead working groups and discussion on the strategic planning and implementation of UKHSA sequencing services. To contribute, manage and provide expertise and leadership to CSL business management including negotiation with customers, reviewing efficiency and Unit performance and pursuing business opportunities within UKHSA and with external customers. To be an on-call expert in laboratory sequencing of bio-threat agents.

This is not an exhaustive list.

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Person specification

Essential criteria

Degree (BSc / MSc) in a biological science, molecular biology or bioinformatics. PhD in molecular microbiological subject or equivalent experience in relevant laboratory sciences Relevant professional qualification i.e., registration with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) as Clinical Scientist or Biomedical Scientist Expertise in the areas covered by the unit and experience in running NGS Platforms and Applied Biosystems sequencing Proven and extensive experience of supervision and leadership Knowledge of automated liquid handling Experience, knowledge and understanding of Quality Assurance Principles and Procedures Experience, knowledge and understanding of laboratory safety requirements and procedures Experience in training staff and competency assessment Knowledge of clinical microbiology, including bacteriology and virology. Data analysis and data presentation skills: Presenting evaluation information to meetings/groups where highly qualified experts debate the work the post holder has prepared Skills for communication on complex information and administrative matters, requiring developed interpersonal and oral/ written communication skills Able to communicate effectively with all grades of staff both internal and external to the UKHSA Problem solving skills and ability to respond to sudden unexpected demands Advanced keyboard skills, use of a range of software Ability to work on own initiative and organise own workload with minimal supervision working to tight and often changing timescales An understanding of and commitment to equality of opportunity and good working relationships, both in terms of day-to-day working practices, but also in relation to management systems

Desirable criteria:

Relevant business or management training to certificate level Experience and knowledge of project principles Evidenced management experience of at least five years for scientific, technical and student staff. R&D project management and team building experience Strong R&D publication record and presenting at national and international audience Ability to attract external and internal grant funding Excellent time management skills with the ability to re-prioritise

Benefits

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Learning and development tailored to your role An environment with flexible working options A culture encouraging inclusion and diversity

This role is offered under Agenda for Change (AFC) Terms and Conditions.

If you are already on AFC T&Cs or accept the role on a fixed-term contract, you will be enrolled in the NHS Pension Scheme or keep your current AFC Pension. If you take the role on a loan or temporary promotion, you will retain your existing substantive T&Cs. If the role is available under either AFC or Civil Service T&Cs depending on your registration, your pension scheme will align accordingly.

Things you need to know

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Selection process details

This vacancy will be assessed using a competency-based framework which will assess your qualifications, knowledge and experience and / or skills and abilities outlined in the essential criteria.

Stage 1: Application & Sift

You will be required to complete an application form. You will be assessed on the listed 17 essential criteria, and this will be in the form of a:


Application form ('Employer/ Activity history' section on the application) up to 1,200 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.


The Application form and supporting statement will be marked together.


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.

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
The following will be taken through to the next stage:

Meets all essential criteria Meets some essential criteria

Shortlisting:

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

Degree (BSc / MSc) in a biological science, molecular biology or bioinformatics. PhD in molecular microbiological subject or equivalent experience in relevant laboratory sciences Relevant professional qualification i.e., registration with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) as Clinical Scientist or Biomedical Scientist Expertise in the areas covered by the unit and experience in running NGS Platforms and Applied Biosystems sequencing Proven and extensive experience of supervision and leadership

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 & assessment.


Please do not exceed 1,200 words. We will not consider any words over and above this number.


Feedback will not be provided at this stage.

Stage 2: Interview (competency based)

You will be invited to a (single) face to face interview at Colindale. In exceptional circumstances, we may be able to offer a remote interview via teams.


Knowledge, experience, skills & abilities will be tested at interview.


You will be asked to prepare and present a 10-minute presentation at the start of your interview. The presentation will be designed to allow the candidates to demonstrate their knowledge of and experience in leading and delivering a Next Generation Sequencing service. Full details will be provided at interview stage.


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 being offered as hybrid working based at our Scientific Campus in Colindale.


We offer great flexible working opportunities at UKHSA and operate using a hybrid working model where business needs allow. This provides us with greater flexibility about how and where we work, to get the best from our workforce. As a hybrid worker, you will be expected to spend a minimum of 60% of your contractual working hours (approximately 3 days a week pro rata, (averaged over a month).


If based at one of our scientific campuses, you will be required to have a minimum of a Counter Terrorism Check security vetting check as a minimum. 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 (CTC) clearance. In exceptional circumstances 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.

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-terrorist Check.

Eligibility Criteria - External

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

Salary Information

If you are successful at interview, and are moving from another government department, NHS, or Local Authority, the relevant starting salary principles for level transfers or promotions will apply. Otherwise, roles are offered at the pay scale minimum for the grade, but in exceptional circumstances there may be flexibility if you are able to demonstrate you are already in receipt of an existing, higher salary. Pay increases are through the relevant annual pay award for the role and terms.

Future location

UKHSA is investing in a new state-of-the-art National Biosecurity Centre in Harlow, Essex, which will eventually bring together teams currently based at Canary Wharf, Colindale and Porton Down. For more details, please see: Huge biosecurity centre investment to boost pandemic protection - GOV.UK.


The new facilities will start becoming operational in the mid-2030s, with full completion by 2038. Staff will move in phases as facilities become available. If you're appointed to a role currently based at Canary Wharf, Colindale or Porton Down, please note that we'll continue investing in these sites for the next decade. As we get closer to the transition, we'll provide full information about relocation support available to staff.

Reasonable Adjustments

The Civil Service is committed to making sure that our selection methods are fair to everyone. To help you during the recruitment process, we will consider any reasonable adjustments that could help you. An adjustment is a change to the recruitment process or an adjustment at work. This is separate to the Disability Confident Scheme. If you need an adjustment to be made at any point during the recruitment process you should contact the recruitment team in confidence as soon as possible to discuss your needs.


You can find out more information about reasonable adjustments across the Civil Service here: https://www.civil-service-careers.gov.uk/reasonable-adjustments/

International Police check

If you have spent more than 6 months abroad over the last 3 years you may need an International Police Check. This would not necessarily have to be in a single block, and it could be time accrued over that period.

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Artificial Intelligence can be a useful tool to support your application, however, all examples and statements provided must be truthful, factually accurate and taken directly from your own experience. Where plagiarism has been identified (presenting the ideas and experiences of others, or generated by artificial intelligence, as your own) applications may be withdrawn and internal candidates may be subject to disciplinary action. Please see our candidate guidance for more information on appropriate and inappropriate use.


Link below:


Artificial intelligence and recruitment , Civil Service Careers

Internal Fraud check

If successful for this role as one aspect of pre-employment screening, applicant's personal details - name, national insurance number and date of birth - will be checked against the Cabinet Office Internal Fraud Hub and anyone included on the database will be refused employment unless they can show exceptional circumstances. Currently this is only for External candidates to the Civil Service.

Careers website

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



Feedback will only be provided if you attend an interview or assessment.###

Security

Successful candidates must undergo a criminal record check.
Successful candidates must meet the security requirements before they can be appointed. The level of security needed is counter-terrorist check .



See our vetting charter .
People working with government assets must complete baseline personnel security standard (opens in new window) checks.###

Nationality requirements

This job is broadly open to the following groups:


UK nationals nationals of the Republic of Ireland nationals of Commonwealth countries who have the right to work in the UK nationals of the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein and family members of those nationalities with settled or pre-settled status under the European Union Settlement Scheme (EUSS) nationals of the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein and family members of those nationalities who have made a valid application for settled or pre-settled status under the European Union Settlement Scheme (EUSS) individuals with limited leave to remain or indefinite leave to remain who were eligible to apply for EUSS on or before 31 December 2020 Turkish nationals, and certain family members of Turkish nationals, who have accrued the right to work in the Civil Service
Further information on nationality requirements
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Working for the Civil Service

The Civil Service Code sets out the standards of behaviour expected of civil servants.



We recruit by merit on the basis of fair and open competition, as outlined in the Civil Service Commission's recruitment principles .
The Civil Service embraces diversity and promotes equal opportunities. As such, we run a Disability Confident Scheme (DCS) for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum selection criteria.###

Diversity and Inclusion

The Civil Service is committed to attract, retain and invest in talent wherever it is found. To learn more please see the Civil Service People Plan and the Civil Service Diversity and Inclusion Strategy .

Apply and further information

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

Contact point for applicants

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Job contact :

Name : Gurkamal Bhambra Email : gurkamal.bhambra@ukhsa.gov.uk
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Recruitment team

Email : recruitment@ukhsa.gov.uk ###

Further information

The law requires that selection for appointment to the Civil Service is on merit on the basis of fair and open competition as outlined in the Civil Service Commission's Recruitment Principles.




If you feel your application has not been treated in accordance with the Recruitment Principles, and you wish to make a complaint, in the first instance, you should contact UKHSA Public Accountability Unit via email: Complaints@ukhsa.gov.uk




If you are not satisfied with the response you receive from the Department, you can contact the Civil Service Commission: Visit the Civil Service Commission website: https://civilservicecommission.independent.gov.uk