Brucella Production and Diagnostics Manager (ID

To provide support in the maintenance, development and delivery of Brucella diagnostics and R&D activities, primarily within a containment level 2 (CL2) laboratory. Manage the production of diagnostic reagents and antigens supporting UK surveillance, international trade and commercial sales. Work is undertaken in accordance with ISO 9001:2015 and ISO 17025:2017 quality standards where applicable.,

• Provide a test troubleshooting service for all Brucella ISO17025 accredited immunological tests undertaken in BAC5 and the Surveillance and Laboratory Services Department (SLSD). Be able to prioritise existing duties to react to test issues which may impact international trade, UK surveillance and commercial sales.
• Manage the reagent collection including the production and standardisation of Brucella diagnostic reagents (ELISA, RBT, SAT, CFT, RSA) for Defra funded surveillance project SB4056 and SB4100, international trade assays undertaken by SLSD and VETQAS proficiency testing schemes.
• Support the testing requirements of the Brucella diagnostic laboratory (CL2), gaining and maintaining competency in a variety of serological assays. Undertake confirmatory serological testing (ELISA, SAT, CFT, RBT) on samples, EQA panels, antigen preparations as part of WOAH collaborations, routine diagnostics, and research projects.
• Manage the production, standardisation and supply of diagnostic antigens produced in the CL3 facility including the use of Integra and relevant databases.
• Participate in immunological research projects through the provision of ELISA testing support for novel and existing antigen preparations.
• Undertake quality control testing for media and reagents including Ecometric testing in CL3.
• Undertake Health and Safety related activities including contingency drills and fire drills. Write, review and maintain relevant risk assessments and SOPs as required.
• Provide support and information to international colleagues as part of APHA's WOAH Reference Laboratory for Brucellosis status. Participate in training opportunities as required.
• Represent the Brucella team at conferences and meetings as required.
• Room officer duties for primary laboratories and associated facilities, ensure the laboratory and equipment is operational.
• Management of one ASO.
• Work to ISO 9001:2015 and where applicable ISO 17025:2017 quality standards.
  
  The Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) is an executive agency of the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs, and works on behalf of the Scottish Government and Welsh Government. Our diverse teams of over 3,000 skilled and committed professionals come together to provide research, advice, and support to UK Government for safeguarding animal, public and plant health for benefit of the environment and economy.
The Science Directorate (SD) delivers high quality, impactful and highly relevant multidisciplinary science. Our people are diverse, talented, engaged and inspired to deliver innovative outcomes.