Scientist, Research Scientist, Medical Science

Job Description

We are currently looking for a Higher Scientist to join our Research & Development within the Science, Research and Innovation group.

Position: Higher Scientist (Full‑time, Permanent) based in South Mimms, Hertfordshire.

The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) enhances and improves the health of millions of people every day through effective regulation of medicines and medical devices.

The Science, Research and Innovation Group delivers public health impact, world‑leading research innovation, and a unique proposition via an ambitious Science Strategy.

The Higher Scientist will work in the pandemic team of the Influenza Resource Centre (IRC) within the Research and Development sub‑group of the SR&I Group.

Key activities include development, characterisation and distribution of influenza candidate vaccine viruses (CVVs), development of influenza potency reagents and provision of data for WHO Vaccine Composition Meetings (VCMs).

Work with a wide range of influenza viruses including those of pandemic potential, involving containment levels 2 and 3, SAPO4 and animal models.

Security clearance must be obtained for this position and requires 5 years UK residency.

• Perform laboratory techniques: propagation of influenza viruses, evaluation of potency reagents, work with embryonated avian eggs and animal‑derived materials, contribute to serological studies.
• Generate Candidate Vaccine Viruses using classical reassortment and reverse genetics, and perform genetic and antigenic characterisation.
• Manage laboratory documentation, health and safety, quality management system documentation and laboratory equipment; maintain stocks of reagents and consumables.
• Work under health and safety regulatory requirements and High Biocontainment guidelines; deliver activities under appropriate governance systems; maintain professional relationships with external stakeholders.

• Communicating and Influencing – communicate in a straightforward, honest and engaging manner.
• Laboratory experience – safe working in biocontainment laboratories (e.g. CL3/CL4/SAPO4).
• Virology experience – practical experience in cell culture, virus propagation, titre, neutralisation, serological assays or molecular biology.
• Virology skills – good knowledge of propagation of influenza viruses through avian eggs and/or cell culture, and working with animal‑derived materials.
• Disciplined – follow processes and standards.

• BSc degree in a relevant scientific discipline.

• Experience:
  
  Laboratory experience in biocontainment labs; quality experience with SOPs, ISO 17025; animal model experience desirable.
• Biosafety skills: knowledge of biocontainment labs, respiratory protective equipment, Class III microbiological Safety Cabinet and safe systems of work.

Security and immigration checks required, as well as animal rights and public‑sector standards checks.

COVID‑19 vaccination and routine health surveillance may be required for laboratory‑based roles.

Online application, interview, selection based on Behaviour, Experience, Technical and Strengths Success Profiles.

Please contact  for any queries.

Closing date: 09/03/2026. Shortlisting from 12/03/2026. Interview 23–24/03/2026.