Lead Bioinformatician G7

The Pathogen Diagnostic Assurance Group (PDAG) contributes to the UK’s testing abilities to support the UK Government’s ongoing response to COVID-19 and other pathogens.

PDAG’s is responsible assurance that assays being used in the UK can detect the variants of SARS CoV-2 and other pathogens in circulation. Currently the role focuses on molecular and antigen tests on the market but may extend to novel technologies in development.

This role is being offered on a full-time basis. Fixed Term Contract with an end date on 31/03/2024

Location

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) offers hybrid working – this means that whilst the role will be based in one of our offices, there will be opportunities for an element of working from home. UKHSA have office locations across the UK.

This role can be based at one of our UKHSA offices/locations (Leeds, Manchester, Totnes, London, Horsham, Cardiff, Bristol, Nottingham, Harlow, Liverpool, Fareham, Gloucester, Newcastle and Birmingham) with opportunities for an element of working from home. You will be asked to express a location preference during the application process.

The balance between home and workplace working is to be agreed with the line manager, determined primarily by business needs and in line with departmental policy.

*Please be aware that this role can only be worked from within the UK and not overseas. Relocation expenses are not available.*

The job holder will be required to carry out the following responsibilities, activities and duties:

• To be responsible for the bioinformatics components of the PDAG Service. Tasks in this area include the development and maintenance of the pathogen whole genome sequencing (WGS) analysis pipelines, and their supporting infrastructure, ensuring the timely delivery of outputs.
• To be responsible for the co-ordination, development and support of specific analysis tools and systems, and to be responsible for the planning and organisation of other online resources and computer systems, as appropriate, through requirements analysis, functional specification, implementation, deployment and testing. This is achieved through interaction with the appropriate UKHSA and external staff.
• To ensure that high quality and responsive support activities are provided by the PDAG and bioinformatics team.
• To be responsible for the project management of PDAG projects and to maintain technical documentation. To be responsible for the secure storage, password management and retrieval of sensitive data related to these projects (in line with the policies of the Core Bioinformatics Unit, ICT and the UKHSA).
• To support and progress UKAS accreditation by working with the Quality Team to ensure that appropriate quality standards are met, and where necessary defined, and that documentation and processes are effectively followed by all relevant staff.
• Writing and distributing regular project update reports and to provide training and deliver presentations as required.

The duties/responsibilities listed above describe the post as it is at present and is not intended to be exhaustive. The Job holder is expected to accept reasonable alterations and additional tasks of a similar level that may be necessary.

It is important through your application and Statement of Suitability of 1000 words that you give evidence and examples of proven experience of each of the following criteria:

Essential

• University degree and higher degree in Bioinformatics/computer Science or Life Sciences
• Significant professional experience developing and implementing bioinformatics solutions for microbiology.
• Experience of managing/analysing large volumes of Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) data.
• Evidence of management, supervisory and team building skills.
• Ability to communicate complex and technical knowledge and ideas to non-specialist users.
• Proven skills in database design, architecture, and implementation on a variety of platforms.
• High level of proficiency with linux/unix operating systems.
• Proven skills in programming languages eg Python, JAVA, C++ and versioning software (git).
• Ability to prioritise work in a timely manner.
• Able to analyse and evaluate scientific data based on evidence.

Desirable

• Second degree/higher degree qualification in Bioinformatics/ computer Science or Life Sciences.
• Training skills.
• Knowledge of Public Health microbiology.

Working for the UKHSA

For more information on the UKHSA please visit: UK Health Security Agency – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

Benefits

• Learning and development tailored to your role.
• An environment with flexible working options.
• A culture encouraging inclusion and diversity.
• A Civil Service pension with an average employer contribution of 27%.
• Range of health and wellbeing support.
• 26 days annual leave allowance increasing to 32 days after a 10-year service.

Any move to UKHSA from another employer will mean you can no longer access childcare vouchers. This includes moves between government departments. You may however be eligible for other government schemes, including Tax Free Childcare. Determine your eligibility at Childcare Choices , 30 Hours Free Childcare, Tax-Free Childcare and More , Help with Costs , GOV.UK

Job contact :

• Name : Nicoleta Enciu
• Email : ukhsa.recruitment@reed.com

Recruitment team

• Email : ukhsa.recruitment@reed.com