Careers

Post Doctoral Position in Molecular Diagnostics

Micropathology Ltd provides a specialist molecular diagnostic service for microbiology.

The company undertakes rapid diagnosis of infections and some genetic studies servicing the NHS through more than 100 Trusts and also providing a large part of the private sector diagnostic service in the UK. Samples arrive in the early morning and processing takes place daily in our laboratories. More than 90% of the results are sent by secure fax or email on the same day that the specimens are received. Our reputation is built on this unique service backed by a 365 day clinical advice service for all medical staff throughout the UK.

A new position is available for a suitably motivated Post-doctoral scientist to work within our team of laboratory/clinical scientists.

The appointee will work with our state-registered scientists, where he/she will become familiar with our laboratory routine. Much of our analyses depend on amplification and sequencing of DNA/RNA and accuracy in activity and a well-organised laboratory habit is essential. Once this routine is established scientists can then be expected to operate with minimal supervision. Daily duties will include sample reception, nucleic acid extraction, and PCR and sequencing. All the ordinary tasks of the laboratory are undertaken by all the staff and it is expected that even the most mundane is shared to keep the laboratory ordered and functioning. In this way the appointee will be expected to participate in administrative duties which are a part of audit and CPA requirements.

A Saturday morning rota is in operation (currently 1 in 8) to book in samples. Normally we do not undertake analysis at weekends except in a special medical situation such as an epidemic.

All applicants for this post should have a good first degree in life sciences (or equivalent), significant post-graduate experience to a post-doctoral level and have good literacy, IT and mathematical skills. State registration is desirable but not essential, and familiarity with quality management systems (the laboratory is accredited to CPA (UK) Ltd standards) and experience in a diagnostic laboratory would be helpful.

A solid scientific knowledge combined with a logical approach is essential. Applicants must be legally entitled to work in the UK.

The successful applicant may expect to be appointed to a permanent post after a successful probationary period of 11 months. Pay will be competitive and commensurate with age/experience. An employee bonus and share scheme is in operation under HMRC rules. Permanent health insurance is available and provided by the company and also tea and real coffee and biscuits are provided for all staff!  

Applications for this post (by CV and hand written covering letter) or requests for more information should be made to the Directors.

The closing date for applications is one calendar month from the appearance of this advert in New Scientist. Short listed applicants are encouraged to visit the company offices and laboratory informally by arrangement before the date of interview.