Clinical and Public Health Fellow

ColindaleJob SummaryAn opportunity has arisen for an enthusiastic and motivated registrar in Infectious Diseases, Medical Microbiology, Virology, Public Health or Paediatrics (including paediatric infectious diseases) to join UKHSA as a clinical fellowThis fellowship is an outstanding opportunity for the individual to gain experience and expertise at a national level in areas including investigation and management of major incidents and outbreaks; infectious disease surveillance; guidance and policy development and implementation; research; service development and improvement including close collaborative work across regional reference laboratories, directorate and divisions.An individual plan will be agreed with the Fellow depending on prior experience and interests, setting out their duties and objectives. The agreement will be tailored to take in consideration the both the needs of the Directorate/Division and the individual. It will include objective setting, and mapping expected outputs and timescales for any projects.Working for your organisationAt the United Kingdom Health Security Agency (UKHSA) our mission is to provide health security for the nation by protecting from infectious disease and external hazards. We are a trusted source of advice to government and to the public, focusing on reducing inequalities in the way different communities experience and are impacted by infectious disease, environmental hazards, and other threats to health.Our mission is challenging, innovative and in the spotlight. We will work to ensure our people have the diverse skills, experiences and backgrounds we need to thrive, that our employees are representative of the communities we serve and feel valued and enabled to play their part in delivering our work.Creating our working culture is an ongoing process which we are developing by listening and learning together, hearing and acting upon diverse voices and opinions to develop a common sense of identity and effective ways of working.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. We do this through celebrating and protecting differences by removing barriers and promoting equity and equality of opportunity for all.Job DescriptionThere is a fellowship opportunity available for 12 month Out of Programme Experiences (OOPE) post to commence February/March 2026. This is aimed at Infectious Diseases, Medical Microbiology, Virology and Public Health registrars currently on training programmes with a National Training Number (NTN). The registrar MUST have OOPE/OOPT approval in principle from their TPD. Virus Reference Department (VRD), ColindaleThis Clinical Fellow in Virology role is based within the Virus Reference Department (VRD) at UKHSA Colindale. The fellow will gain specialist training in national reference virology services, including the WHO-accredited measles and rubella laboratory, the intrathecal antibody testing service, and diagnostics for rare but clinically significant infections such as progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML). The post offers the opportunity to undertake a service evaluation project reviewing 10 years of intrathecal antibody testing data, alongside a literature review to inform future strategy. There will be the potential to present findings to national stakeholders and contribute to publication. In addition, the fellow will engage in broader diagnostic work within the department, including exposure to assay development processes not typically available in NHS virology training. This role offers a unique opportunity to gain experience at the interface of reference virology, laboratory innovation, and public health.Higher security clearance is required for all of our science sites, due to the sensitive and important work we do there. Staff, contractors and sub-contractors based at our scientific sites will need counter terrorist check (CTC) clearance for unescorted access to our scientific sites.During The Placement The StR Will Be Expected To:Gain understanding and experience of:The delivery of the national role of UKHSAThe delivery of the programmeThe commissioning and financing of different aspects of the delivery of the programme andtheir impact on programme performanceThe role of the various agencies in delivering, managing and monitoring programmeGuidance and policy development (national infection guidance and policyService and quality improvement in relation to infectious disease surveillance, prevention and controlProviding public health input into commissioning and financing decisions with regards to the delivery of the programmeDevelop Skills In:Liaising with other stakeholders to optimise the delivery of clinical and public health programmes and projectsCross divisional working within UKHSAProviding clinical input into delivery of the national planning and preparedness workstreams.Policy development and implementationDecision making and time managementWorking on ad hoc analyses of each area of responsibility as directed by consultants and scientistsIdentifying, investigating and responding to cases, clusters and outbreaks of communicable diseaseThe StR will be expected to agree a plan with their project and educational supervisors. The plan will be tailored to meet the individual StR's needs and the needs of the division and will include the objectives for the placement and the output and timescales expected for any projects.The StR Is Expected To:Take responsibility for arranging 1:1 sessions with their supervisor(s)Inform their educational supervisor of any special requirements, ideally at the pre-placement meeting;Inform their education supervisor promptly of any difficulties, including concerns about lack of opportunities to gain experience;Attend the workplace as required and on time;Share their diaries with UKHSA staff;Notify their educational supervisor (or unit/department administrator if unavailable) when unwell;Deliver the objectives set out in the plan the StR will be expected to work closely with members of the individual teamsShort induction including familiarisation with base, the team, and organisational arrangements.Deal with enquiries from across UKHSA and governmentIssue clinical and public health advice on individual incidentsParticipate in investigation of clusters/ outbreaksAttend (and presentation where appropriate at) key meetings relevant to the divisionAttend cross UKHSA, meetings relevant to training, and /or projects Work on projects which contribute to the strategic work of the division and which are appropriate to the individual StRMeet regularly with their project and educational supervisors.Complete an evaluation of the placement.Pursue a programme of continuing professional development in accordance with any relevant professional registration or statutory requirements, whilst maintaining appropriate awareness of service provider requirements.The StR Is Encouraged To Attend:Unit/departmental education meetingsEducational meetings with partner agenciesOther local/national training as appropriatePROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENTIdentify, discuss and action own professional performance and training / development needs with your line manager through appraisal / individual development plan. Attending internal / external training eventsTo participate in all mandatory training as required, i.e. fire safety, information governance and all other mandatory trainingKEY WORKING RELATIONSHIPS The post holder will develop working relationships and communicate regularly with a wide range of individuals, clinical and non-clinical, internal and external to UKHSA.Person SpecificationPlease refer to the person specification below in addition applicants must:Be on a formally accredited specialist training programmeHave satisfactory progression through annual assessments (ARCP)Have written agreement in principle from their Training Programme Director/Head of School that this is a suitable training opportunity and that they can take an OOPE (email accepted).Be available for the period of 12 monthsThere is a fellowship opportunity available for 12 month Out of Programme Experiences (OOPE) post to commence February/March 2026. This is aimed at Infectious Diseases, Medical Microbiology, Virology and Public Health registrars currently on training programmes with a National Training Number (NTN). The registrar MUST have OOPE/OOPT approval in principle from their TPD. Virus Reference Department (VRD), ColindaleThis Clinical Fellow in Virology role is based within the Virus Reference Department (VRD) at UKHSA Colindale. The fellow will gain specialist training in national reference virology services, including the WHO-accredited measles and rubella laboratory, the intrathecal antibody testing service, and diagnostics for rare but clinically significant infections such as progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML). The post offers the opportunity to undertake a service evaluation project reviewing 10 years of intrathecal antibody testing data, alongside a literature review to inform future strategy. There will be the potential to present findings to national stakeholders and contribute to publication. In addition, the fellow will engage in broader diagnostic work within the department, including exposure to assay development processes not typically available in NHS virology training. This role offers a unique opportunity to gain experience at the interface of reference virology, laboratory innovation, and public health.Higher security clearance is required for all of our science sites, due to the sensitive and important work we do there. Staff, contractors and sub-contractors based at our scientific sites will need counter terrorist check (CTC) clearance for unescorted access to our scientific sites.The StR Is Encouraged To Attend:Unit/departmental education meetingsEducational meetings with partner agenciesOther local/national training as appropriatePROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENTIdentify, discuss and action own professional performance and training / development needs with your line manager through appraisal / individual development plan. Attending internal / external training eventsTo participate in all mandatory training as required, i.e. fire safety, information governance and all other mandatory trainingKEY WORKING RELATIONSHIPS The post holder will develop working relationships and communicate regularly with a wide range of individuals, clinical and non-clinical, internal and external to UKHSA.Person SpecificationPlease refer to the person specification below in addition applicants must:Be on a formally accredited specialist training programmeHave satisfactory progression through annual assessments (ARCP)Have written agreement in principle from their Training Programme Director/Head of School that this is a suitable training opportunity and that they can take an OOPE (email accepted).Be available for the period of 12 monthsPerson specificationQualificationsEssential criteriaMedical degree MBBS or equivalent experience of working in a clinical field, including Public Health Trainees on accredited training programmesSpecialist trainee in infectious diseases, microbiology public health or paediatrics (undertaking a specialty training programme with national training number (NTN)Desirable criteriaAdditional qualification in relevant field, or relevant equivalent experience, including PhD or MastersKnowledge And ExperienceEssential criteriaUnderstanding of the UK research and NHS systemDesirable criteriaExperience of collaborating within other agencies (e.g. NHS England)Experience of presenting complex ideas to stakeholdersSkills / Capabilities / BehavioursEssential criteriaExperience in preparation of written reports and published workAbility to work individually and as part of a teamAbility to prioritise work in a timely mannerWorking in a multidisciplinary teamAble to convey ideas and opinions clearly and concisely, orally and in writingEquality and DiversityEssential criteriaAn understanding of and commitment to equality of opportunity and good working relationshipsLearning and development tailored to your roleAn environment with flexible working optionsA culture encouraging inclusion and diversityNHS PensionIf 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.Selection process detailsExternal Open to all external applicants (anyone) from outside the Civil Service (including by definition internal applicants).STAGE 1 – Application & Sift: (Competency)You will be required to complete an application form. You will be assessed on essential criteria, and this will be in the form of an Application form (‘Employer/ Activity history’ section on the application) up to 1500 word Statement of Suitability.This should outline how your skills, experience, and knowledge, provide evidence of your suitability for the role.You will receive a joint score for your application form and statement. (The application form is the kind of information you would put into your C.V –please be advised you will not be able to upload your CV. Please complete the application form in as much detail as possible)Longlisting: In the event of a large number of applications we may longlist into 3 piles of:Meets all essential criteria Meets some essential criteria Meets no essential criteria Only those who meet ALL essential criteria will be taken through to the next stageIf we receive a large number of applications an initial sift against the lead criteria below will be conducted. Medical degree MBBSSpecialist trainee in infectious diseases, microbiology, virology, public health orUnderstanding of the UK research and NHS systemPlease note feedback will not be provided at this stage.Unfortunately, late applications will not be consideredIf you are successful at this stage, you will progress to interview & assessmentYou will be invited to a remote interview.Stage 2: Interview (competency based)Interviews will be conducted virtually week commencing 5th January 2026, please note these dates are subject to change.This vacancy is being assessed using the person specification. During the interview we will assess against the below:Knowledge, Experience, Skills And AbilitiesOnce this job has closed, the job advert will no longer be available. You may want to save a copy for your records.Successful candidates must meet the security requirements before they can be appointed.LocationThis 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).As you will be 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. 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 CareersSalary InformationIf 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.Security Clearance Level Requirement Successful candidates for this role must pass an enhanced disclosure and barring security check before they can be appointed. Feedback will only be provided if you attend an interview or assessment.International Police checkIf 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.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.Reasonable AdjustmentsThe 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/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.For further information about specific posts please contact Catherine Houlihan - catherine.houlihan@ukhsa.gov.ukFeedback will only be provided if you attend an interview or assessment.SecuritySuccessful candidates must undergo a criminal record check.People working with government assets must complete baseline personnel security standard (opens in new window) checks.Successful candidates must undergo a criminal record check.People working with government assets must complete baseline personnel security standard (opens in new window) checks.Nationality requirementsThis Job Is Broadly Open To The Following Groups:UK nationalsnationals of the Republic of Irelandnationals of Commonwealth countries who have the right to work in the UKnationals 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) (opens in a new window)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 2020Turkish nationals, and certain family members of Turkish nationals, who have accrued the right to work in the Civil ServiceFurther information on nationality requirements (opens in a new window)Working for the Civil ServiceThe Civil Service Code (opens in a new window) 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 (opens in a new window).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.The Civil Service Code (opens in a new window) 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 (opens in a new window).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 InclusionThe 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 (opens in a new window) and the Civil Service Diversity and Inclusion Strategy (opens in a new window).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 applicantsJob Contact :Name : Catherine HoulihanEmail : catherine.houlihan@ukhsa.gov.ukRecruitment teamEmail : scs.mdrecruitment@phe.gov.ukFurther informationThe 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: Complaints1@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/