Biomedical Scientist Practitioner / Healthcare Scientist Practitioner

Job summary We are seeking an HCPC registered Biomedical Scientist Practitioner (AfC Band 5) or a Healthcare Scientist Practitioner (Executive Officer). Salary bands: AfC Band 5: £32,073 - £39,043 (plus Outer HCAS payment) per annum, pro rata EO (Inner London): £32,624 - £37,737 per annum, pro rata Candidates holding HCPC registration will be appointed on NHS Terms & Conditions at NHS AfC Band 5. Candidates without HCPC registration will be appointed on Civil Service Terms and Conditions at EO grade. The Gastrointestinal Bacteria Reference Unit (GBRU) is a National Reference Laboratory and provides specialist and reference services for a specific range of hazard group 2 and 3 gastrointestinal and foodborne bacterial pathogens notably Bacillus cereus, Clostridium perfringens, C. botulinum, E. coli, Listeria, Campylobacter, Helicobacter, Salmonella, Shigella, Yersinia and Vibrio species. Main duties of the job GBRU works at local, regional, national and international levels to reduce the impact of food, water and environmentally borne illnesses on people's health. Activities include provision of bacterial typing services to assist national surveillance, the detection and investigation of outbreaks and specialist microbiological services for the examination of clinical, food, water and environmental samples. Currently, a combination of phenotypic and genotypic methods is used to detect, identify and type bacterial isolates and this increasingly involves the use of whole genome sequencing. We are streamlining workflows for different pathogens across the unit to facilitate implementation of new technology whilst maintaining the capability to perform standard reference methods. GBRU has a high propriety in ensuring the safe running of laboratory services and the safety of all staff. To provide technical support within the Unit in ensuring that GBRU provides a national and international service in all aspects of the work of the Section; this includes molecular and conventional microbiological analysis on a range of foodborne bacterial isolates and clinical and environment specimens. To work with senior staff to ensure that both the service and non-service work of the unit is carried out in a safe, effective, timely manner and operates to a quality system. To participate in research and development activities within GBRU. About us We pride ourselves as being an employer of choice, where Everyone Matters promoting equality of opportunity to actively encourage applications from everyone, including groups currently underrepresented in our workforce. UKHSA ethos is to be an inclusive organisation for all our staff and stakeholders. To create, nurture and sustain an inclusive culture, where differences drive innovative solutions to meet the needs of our workforce and wider communities. We do this through celebrating and protecting differences by removing barriers and promoting equity and equality of opportunity for all. Please visit our careers site for more information https://gov.uk/ukhsa/careers Details Date posted 18 September 2026 Pay scheme Agenda for change Band Band 5 Salary £32,073 to £39,043 a year per annum, pro rata (plus HCAS outer rates) Contract Permanent Working pattern Full-time Reference number 919-JP-62282352-EXT Job locations Scientific Campus Colindale, London NW9 5EQ United Kingdom Job description Job responsibilities The day to day duties will include: Service delivery To receive, sort, unpack, label and process specimens in the laboratory. To assist in the provision and organisation of safe, timely, high quality and economical CL2 and CL3 microbiological, serological, and molecular laboratory duties, guided by standard operating procedures (SOPs) within GBRU To undertake DNA-based detection and typing for a range of pathogens with assays and techniques such as real-time polymerase chain reaction and whole genome sequencing (WGS) To analyse and validate clinical and reference-based results, support the senior scientists in dealing with laboratory queries and maintain professional registration. Assist in providing a flexible laboratory response to emergency public health needs including investigation of incidents, of deliberate release of pathogenic organisms and to general investigations of illness as appropriate. Assist with evaluation and implementation of new techniques / methods to the unit that enhance effectiveness of the laboratory work. Writing and updating SOPs and controlled documentation. To provide technical support to GBRU Reference Services as appropriate including adjusting day-to-day work priorities to meet changing demands or emergency requirements. Writing and updating SOPs and controlled documentation. Assist senior staff in the management of supporting staff across GBRU and deputise for the HEO when required. Health and SafetyIn collaboration with the GBRU Safety Officer and complying with UKHSA safety policies and procedures to: Ensure that health, safety and welfare is an aff