Healthcare Scientist Practitioner

This role is being offered as office/lab based at our site in Manchester.If based at one of our labs, you will be required to have 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.Please note hybrid working is not available for this role.Job SummaryThe Vaccine Evaluation Unit (VEU) specialises in serological determination of immune responses to Neisseria meningitidis and Streptococcus pneumoniae either following vaccination or disease. It has international recognition for all of the assays that encompass serum bactericidal antibody assays and ELISA for all serogroups of N. meningitidis as well as offering determination of IgG concentrations for pneumococcal (serotype-specific), Haemophilus influenzae type b, tetanus and diphtheria.The post-holder will act as a Healthcare Scientist Practitioner providing scientific services to patients and clients as an aid in the evaluation of immunological responses to vaccines and microbiological disease. Accuracy and attention to detail is essential.Job DescriptionPerforming specialist immunoassays for the analysis of biological samples to quantify different antibody isotypes and/or avidity to various microbial antigens.Processing clinical trial samples received according to Unit standard operating procedures.Preparing reagents for use in specialist in-house immunoassays.Using, maintaining and calibrating manual and complex automated equipment for the performance of specialist assays.Participating in and monitoring Quality Assurance and Quality Control activities and assist the unit in maintaining UKAS ISO 15189 and GCLP (Good Clinical Laboratory Practice) compliance.Undertake the training, supervision and monitoring of Senior Assistant Healthcare Scientists, Junior Healthcare Scientist Practitioners and students in accordance with the nature of a large teaching hospital.Working in a safe manner in accordance with Laboratory Health and Safety policies and procedures.Please be aware this list is not exhaustive .Performing specialist immunoassays for the analysis of biological samples to quantify different antibody isotypes and/or avidity to various microbial antigens.Processing clinical trial samples received according to Unit standard operating procedures.Preparing reagents for use in specialist in-house immunoassays.Using, maintaining and calibrating manual and complex automated equipment for the performance of specialist assays.Participating in and monitoring Quality Assurance and Quality Control activities and assist the unit in maintaining UKAS ISO 15189 and GCLP (Good Clinical Laboratory Practice) compliance.Undertake the training, supervision and monitoring of Senior Assistant Healthcare Scientists, Junior Healthcare Scientist Practitioners and students in accordance with the nature of a large teaching hospital.Working in a safe manner in accordance with Laboratory Health and Safety policies and procedures.Please be aware this list is not exhaustive .Person specificationParticipating in audit processes, clinical trials, and research projects, as required.Assist in the development and improvements of laboratory protocols laboratory policies and procedures.Ensure that personal work activity is managed, making effective use of time.Maintain an adequate supply of laboratory consumables.Attend regular Unit meetings and contribute to effective communication within the Unit.Undertake on-going training and development and update Professional Development Plan.To present data at conferences nationally.To identify, discuss and action own professional performance and training / development needs with your line manager through appraisal / individual development plan. Attending internal / external training event.To participate in all mandatory training as required, i.e. fire safety, information governance and all other mandatory training.To ensure data integrity when entering demographics and results into the laboratory information system.Sample preparation, processing bodily fluids and materials, including high-risk specimens and reagent preparation following protocols.To analyse biological samples including more complex/ specialist investigations requiring a high level of skill.To provide a specialist diagnostic service for measuring the immune response to disease or vaccination.To use advanced specialist computer software for the capture and processing of laboratory data.To carry out research in vaccines against different pathogens.To exercise judgement and interpretation to validate results and generate laboratory reports in accordance with Unit policies and procedures. The validation process includes analytical and scientific validity.To refer unusual or unfamiliar events to senior technical staff for action or advice.To assist with, and where appropriate be responsible for, the development of new methods and implementation of new technology.To dispose of patient samples in accordance with relevant guidelines.To monitor and maintain appropriate stock levels and facilitate deliveries.To be responsible for organising own daily work schedule.Job holder is encouraged to participate in Saturday and Sunday morning rota.Job holder will be required to demonstrate appropriate competency to participate in Unit’s out of hours service. During these periods the post holder will be a lone worker. Any other duties as reasonably requiredRole Criteria And Other RequirementsEssential role criteria (including qualifications, licenses and registrations):BSc Hons in appropriate biological degreeBasic scientific mathematicsSkills for communication on complex information and administrative matters, requiring developed interpersonal and oral/ written communication skillsProblem solving skills and ability to respond to sudden unexpected demandsSkills for manipulating information.Advanced keyboard skills, use of a range of softwareAble to work on own initiative, organising and prioritising own workload to set deadlinesAn ability to maintain confidentiality and trustGood time keepingFlexible approach to workAn understanding of and commitment to equality of opportunity and good working relationships.Desirable Role CriteriaKnowledge of ImmunoassaysExperience with Microsoft OfficeAbility to pull together comprehensive draft reports, data and letters Negotiating, networking and persuasive skillsAlongside your salary of £28,547, UK Health Security Agency contributes £8,270 towards you being a member of the Civil Service Defined Benefit Pension scheme. Find out what benefits a Civil Service Pension provides.Learning and development tailored to your roleAn environment with flexible working optionsA culture encouraging inclusion and diversityA Civil Service pension with an employer contribution of 28.97%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/careersSelection process detailsStage 1: Application & Sift This vacancy is using Competency.At sift stage you will be assessed against the Essential and Desirable criteria listed in the job advert.You Will Be Required To Complete AnApplication form (‘Employer/ Activity history’ section on the application)1500 word supporting statementThis 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).If we receive a large number of applications an initial sift against the lead criterion of BSc Hons in an appropriate biological degree will be conducted.LonglistingIn 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 candidates meeting all essential criteria at a minimum will progress to the next stage.If we receive a large number of applications, only those candidates scoring highest against both essential and desirable criteria will progress to the next stage.Please note feedback will not be provided at this stage.Stage 2: Technical test stage (competency based):You will be invited to complete a timed, technical test remotely. Only those candidates who pass this test will be invited to interview.If a large number of applicants pass the test, only those with the highest scores on this test will be invited to interview.Subject of the technical test: Basic scientific mathematics, attention to detail, laboratory technique and vaccinology.Stage 3: Interview stage (competency based):You will be invited to a face to face interview. If face to face interviews are planned, in exceptional circumstances, we may be able to offer a remote interview.This Vacancy Is Being Assessed Using The Competency Framework. During The Interview We Will Assess Against The Below Using The Essential CriteriaKnowledgeExperienceSkills and AbilitiesStage 1 interviews will be taking place on the 27th and 28th November.Once this job has closed, the job advert will no longer be available. You may want to save a copy for your records.Additional InformationLocationThis role is being offered as office/lab based at our site in Manchester. If based at one of our labs, you will be required to have 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.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.Please note hybrid working is not available for this role.Eligibility CriteriaOpen to all external applicants (anyone) from outside the Civil Service (including by definition internal applicants).  Security Clearance Level RequirementAll successful candidates must meet the basic security requirements before they can be appointed. The level of security needed is:Basic Personnel Security Standard (BPSS).For This Role You Will Also Need To MeetCounter Terrorism Check (CTC) DBS Requirement Basic DBS Please note: 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.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/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.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: Artificial intelligence and recruitment , Civil Service CareersInternal 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.Feedback will only be provided if you attend an interview or assessment.SecuritySuccessful 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 (opens in a new window).See our vetting charter (opens in a new window).People working with government assets must complete baseline personnel security standard (opens in new window) checks.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 (opens in a new window).See our vetting charter (opens in a new window).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 GroupsUK 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 ContactName : Tom GeldeardEmail : Tom.Geldeard@ukhsa.gov.ukRecruitment teamEmail : Recruitment@ukhsa.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: Complaints@ukhsa.gov.ukIf 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