Clinical Fellow (RIPL)

The job is based at the Rare and Imported Pathogens Laboratory (RIPL), UKHSA Porton Down, and is an opportunity to learn about the recognition, diagnosis, and management of a wide range of imported and zoonotic diseases.

The job is suitable for a trainee ideally towards the end of their training programme, but as a minimum at ST3 or above in microbiology, virology, infectious diseases in single or combined specialty training.

Candidates will be expected to have a basic knowledge of laboratory practice in microbiology and virology, and a good understanding of the pathological basis of disease and case management. Under the supervision of the RIPL consultants, the post-holder will form an active member of the clinical team and take part in all activities from selection of tests and initial advice on case management and infection control through to the interpretation and reporting of results of a wide range of assays for unusual diseases. They will also gain experience in laboratory management and quality systems and will be encouraged to undertake a project to develop our understanding of unusual diseases imported into the UK., The Clinical Fellow will be expected to undertake the following:

Clinical Services

o To offer clinical and scientific advice to clinicians on the appropriateness and choice of testing and the interpretation of results.o Interpret and report laboratory results using the Laboratory Information Management System.o To liaise with clinicians and other healthcare professionals on all aspects of patient management (including treatment) and to act as a link between the laboratory and front-line medical professionals.o To support the introduction of new diagnostic methodologies into the unit to ensure that a comprehensive service is provided for imported diseases.o To contribute to incident or outbreak investigations.

Main Responsibilities

o Through example, discussion and daily working practice, educate and encourage junior members of staff in the interpretation and significance of laboratory work for patient management.o Support the development of services for the detection, genotyping and reporting of novel pathogens within the department and NIS.o Support and enhance compliance with ISO15189 and other accreditation and certification standardso To participate in scientific research activities within the RIPL serviceo Support the continual development and compliance of internal and external audit programmes and corrective actions.o Contribute to internal and external quality assurance programmes.

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.