Healthcare Scientist Specialist

United Kingdom National External Quality Assessment Service for Microbiology (UK NEQAS for Microbiology) is hosted within UKHSA as part of EQA Services department. (EQA services are self-financing, and monies are obtained by subscription to the services).

EQA Services to participants worldwide. Registered scheme participants receive regular distributions of specimens of known but undisclosed content which, if examined by the participants using routine procedures, provide a valuable tool for the management of quality within the laboratory. EQA is provided by the Food and Water Proficiency Testing Unit and UK NEQAS for Microbiology.

Preparation of specimens for the UK National External Quality Assessment Scheme (UK NEQAS). This is carried out by applying knowledge of clinical diagnostic microbiology in the design, quality control and stability of these specimens. To report back to participants of the schemes by producing analytical reports based upon results of the distributed specimens. Participant feedback is encouraged and responding to participants queries is also carried out and may include further analysis of distributed specimens. The post holder will participate in the quality management system of the department including document management, audit and training. Work to GLP and GMP in compliance with ISO 17043 accreditation.

Main duties of the job

The postholder will be working alongside other scientists in the laboratory to plan, quality control and prepare EQA specimens according to specimen design, using their knowledge and experience of clinical microbiology. The postholder will be expected to supervise on a more junior staff members day-to-day basis and to undertake line management.

They will lead by example undertaking work following the departmental Quality management system and working towards the accreditation (ISO 17043) requirements and safety protocols.

The role offers the chance to develop planning and management skills and learn new techniques such as freeze-drying.

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.