Head of Flow Cytometry Standardisation - 52,316 p.a. + benefits

Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency ,
South Mimms, Hertfordshire

Overview

Job Description

We would like to reassure all applicants that we are continuing to recruit through these challenging circumstances. For any vacancies advertised we are proceeding with Video Interviews where possible and are facilitating remote homeworking for all positions where possible. Should you have any queries on the current recruitment process at the MHRA please contact careers@mhra.gov.uk. We currently have a great opportunity for a new Head of Flow Cytometry Standardisation to join the Biotherapeutics Division, within our National Institute for Biological Standards and Control (NIBSC) centre on a 1 year FTC. The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency enhance and improve the health of millions of people every day through the effective regulation of medicines and medical devices, underpinned by science and research. The agency is made up of c.1300 staff working across three centres: Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency regulatory centre (MHRA) Clinical Practice Research Datalink (CPRD) National Institute for Biological Standards and Controls (NIBSC) NIBSC is a global leader in the characterisation, standardisation and control of biological medicines. NIBSC plays a major role in assuring the quality of biological medicines worldwide through the provision of biological reference materials, by testing products and carrying out research. Our expert scientists also provide advice on a routine basis and in response to emergencies. The Division of Biotherapeutics has a broad remit covering all biological products with a therapeutic potential in humans, excluding vaccines. Our core functions of standardisation and product control testing are underpinned by a programme of applied research. The Cellular Immunology Section is part of the Biotherapeutics Division and has a broad range of responsibilities including the development of flow cytometry reference reagents, standardisation of assays for the evaluation of the immunotoxicicity of biological medicines, the control of the pyrogen content of vaccines and research in the area of novel cancer immunotherapeutics. The role is a fixed-term 1-year appointment to provide maternity cover for the existing post holder within the Cellular Immunology Section in the Biotherapeutics Division. The post holder will be responsible for a standardisation program focusing on flow cytometry reference materials for donor/recipient crossmatching in the context of transplantation and bioassay development in the context of extracellular vesicle (EV) function. Key responsibilities: Leading standardisation projects in the field of flow cytometry. Managing collaborative studies, preparing the documentation associated with the development of reference reagents. Leading the extracellular vesicles (EV) standardisation development project: manage a research / standardisation program that will result in the establishment of an EV potency assay and will lead towards the development of techniques supporting EV related projects. Contributing to the formulation and implementation of strategy and policy for the Cellular Immunology Section. Disseminating results, analysis and interpretation of the above work within NIBSC and externally. The successful candidate will: A relevant degree in a biological science in an area involved in flow cytometry and immunobiology A PhD with a strong emphasis on immunology and significant work experience in a field related to immunology (clinical or non-clinical) A good track record of peer-reviewed publications and presentations to international audiences and/or senior managers Proven ability to carry out research into mechanisms and develop assays. Efficiency in designing and leading research projects. Post-doctoral experience or experience with delivering R&D projects in Immunology including experience in flow cytometry and cellular immunoassays Experience in managing standardisation and/or research projects Experience in managing laboratory resources, equipment and work programmes, writing scientific projects and/or grant applications If you would like to know more about this role, please click on the Job Description and Person Specification. Please note: The job description may not open in some internet browsers. Please use Chrome or Microsoft Edge. If you have any issue viewing the job description, please contact careers@mhra.gov.uk Please ensure all application questions are completed; your application may not be considered if any key questions are left blank. Closing date: 21st June 2020 If you need assistance applying for this role or have any other question please contact careers@mhra.gov.uk Candidates will be subject to UK immigration requirements as well as Civil Service nationality rules. Our process requires that you apply through our careers site, where you will be asked to complete your application and answer some competency based questions. Applicants are assessed on whether they meet any mandatory requirements as well as the necessar