Pathogen Characterisation - Senior Project Team Leader

We are seeking a talented and experienced molecular biologist who will take part in and lead pathogen and host genomic related projects within the DPC division, with both expertise in both wet and dry lab aspects of the subject area. The successful candidate will work closely with the Scientific Leader and Head of Department to ensure group and organisational strategy are satisfied.

They will also be required to manage a team of scientists across multiple projects and work closely with other Senior Project Team Leaders to develop the capability in DPC, and obtain further external funding, develop academic links and expand the expertise of the group.

• Lead and develop capacity building collaborations to ensure project targets are met, working with the Scientific Lead to maintain the engagement of stakeholders.
• Lead on other externally funded projects as assigned, meeting targets in line with sponsor requirements, engaging with collaborators and networks as required.
• Identify, bid and lead on internal and external funding with a genomics focus, or other complementary group activities to maintain capability and develop the group in line with DPC core objectives.
• Provide reports and data as required by the Scientific Lead/Head of Department and external stakeholders.
• Build external links with collaborators and similar groups to the benefit of DPC and UKHSA.
• Give internal/external presentations, develop, draft and submit manuscripts on work for peer‑reviewed publications.
• Lead the project team/area to identify, evaluate and adapt new approaches where appropriate and to ensure that the project operates to a high scientific standard using current methods.
• Provide line and project management as required and indicated by Head of Department and Scientific Lead.
• Perform any other duties required by the line manager commensurate with grade.
• Ensure that the project team undertakes work in accordance with applicable UKHSA Safety and Quality systems.
• Maintain health and safety competence.
• Fulfil the requirements of UKHSA Values and the Civil Service Code.
• Comply with all UKHSA policies and procedures.

From the start of application you will be assessed against the following essential criteria. If a large number of applications is received a preliminary sift will be undertaken. During the interview, behaviours in the Civil Service Code will be evaluated (leadership, decision making, communication, pace).

• PhD or equivalent higher qualification and significant experience in an appropriate microbiology or virology field.
• Substantial experience of working and leading on the development of sequencing‑based assays, across a variety of platforms.
• Experience of working in pathogen and/or human genomics.
• Experience of external collaboration, with demonstrable expertise in scientific research with grant writing and publication record.
• Experience of developing junior staff members, including line management experience.
• Clear communicator with excellent writing skills, report writing, and presentation skills.
• Evidence of success in efficient and effective project participation and management.
• Conduct behaviours in a manner aligned to the Civil Service Code of Conduct.

• Trained and experienced working in containment level 3.
• Experience of making decisions on difficult and contentious issues where there may be a number of courses of action.
• Skills for troubleshooting data analysis pipelines.

• Grade 7 National: £56,185 – £66,581.
• Public holidays and one privilege day for the King's birthday.
• Defined Benefit pension scheme with employer contributions.
• Cycle‑to‑work salary sacrifice scheme, season ticket advances and payroll giving.
• Retail discounts and cashback.
• Flexible working patterns (part‑time, job‑share, condensed hours); right to apply for flexible working.
• Generous maternity/ paternity and adoption leave package.
• Hybrid working model where business needs allow.

• Successful candidates must meet security requirements, including Counter‑Terrorist Check and, where relevant, have lived in the UK for at least three years prior to application for vulnerability vetting.
• Applicants must be eligible to work in the UK Civil Service (UK nationals, Republic of Ireland, Commonwealth, EU, and other specified groups).
• Artificial intelligence may be used to support your application; all statements must be truthful and directly from your own experience.