Higher Scientist Gonococcal assays - 37,456 - 42,084

Job summary

We are currently looking for a Higher Scientist Shigella to join our R&D Vaccines Function within the Science and Research Group.

This is a full-time opportunity, on a fixed term contract until 30th November 2027. The role will be based in South Mimms, Hertfordshire.

The role will require candidates to have SC Clearance or be willing to work towards.

Who are we?

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 Science and Research Group delivers public health impact through four subgroups: Control Testing, Research and Development, Standards Lifecycle, and Health & Safety and Quality Assurance, working together to ensure quality, drive innovation, and improve health outcomes. The Research and Development group deliver applied regulatory research developing novel assays and reference reagents to ensure the quality and safety of biological medicines.

The Research & Development function provides scientific expertise to support the regulation of vaccines. Through applied research, method development, and collaboration with national and international partners, the function generates robust scientific evidence to support regulatory decision‑making, and timely access to safe and effective vaccines.

Job description

This is an 18‑month fixed‑term project funded by the Gates Foundation (GF). The project is a collaboration between MHRA and UKHSA. Gonococcal outer membrane vesicles will be produced at industrial scale by UKHSA. These samples will then be analysed using proteomic approaches to characterise their protein composition by mass spectrometry, and to develop a multiplex IgG-binding immunoassay at MHRA.

Key responsibilities:

• Assay development and immunological evaluation Develop, optimise, and apply serological assays (multiplex Luminex and ELISA) to evaluate human sera from recipients of gonococcal OMV-based vaccines.
• Microbiological culture and OMV production Culture Neisseria species (primarily Neisseria gonorrhoeae), including the isolation, purification, and quality assessment of outer membrane vesicles (OMVs).
• Analytical and proteomic characterisation Perform proteomic analyses to define OMV composition and support vaccine-related research and development activities.
• Scientific collaboration, reporting, and data presentation Maintain accurate records, contribute to reports, collaborate with internal teams and external partners (UKHSA and GF), and present data at internal and external meetings.

Person specification

Our successful candidate will demonstrate the following.

Method of assessment: A=Application, T=Test, I=Interview, P=Presentation

• Technical - Relevant scientific background and technical expertise (A, I)

A degree (or equivalent experience) in microbiology, immunology, biochemistry, or a related life science, with practical experience in bacterial culture - ideally including Neisseriaspecies and/or vaccine-related research.

• Technical - Good analytical and data management skills with the ability to interpret complex data sets (A,I)
• Technical - An understanding of vaccine development and serological assays used in evaluation of post-immunisation serum (A,I)
• Experience- Hands-on laboratory skills using immunoassays and working with CL2 pathogen(A,I)

Demonstrated experience in laboratory techniques such as ELISA and Luminex etc. Experience working with CL2 pathogens

• Practical experience running immunological, functional or cell-based assays which can be used to evaluate vaccine induced response. Experience of assay qualification and validation is desirable.
• Behaviour- Making Effective Decisions (A, I)

Ability to analyse, interpret, and critically evaluate experimental data, with experience in presenting clear, robust conclusions to support scientific decision-making.

• Communicating and Influencing:Communicate in a straightforward, honest and engaging manner, choosing appropriate styles to maximise understanding and impact. Share information as appropriate and check understanding
• Behaviour- Working Together(A, I)

Confidence in working collaboratively with internal teams and external partners (e.g. public health or academic stakeholders), and in presenting scientific data at meetings and conferences to both specialist and non-specialist audiences.

If you would like to find out more about this fantastic opportunity, please read our Job Description and Person Specification!

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