Assistant Scientist Microbiology and Molecular biology - 12615

1
South West
Exeter
NLS Starcross Lab Exeter, EX6 8FD
Staff Grade 2
Permanent
Full Time
Science
£18,392
As an Assistant Scientist you will be expected to assist in the delivery of the analytical service to defined time, cost and quality targets. The role involves the filtering, culture and isolation of bacteria from environmental samples.
Whilst based in the Microbiology and Molecular biology team, you will also be required to work in one of the other analytical teams (Inorganics, Metals, Organics) this will often be at short notice, it is therefore important you are able to demonstrate a flexible approach, with the ability to learn quickly and work co-operatively as part of a larger team to achieve common goals.
The NLS is accredited to ISO/IEC17025 with 3 sites across the country – Leeds Reading and Starcross. Starcross, specialise in freshwater, saline and effluent analysis. Our Microbiology team comprises of 10 staff members, and is responsible for a wide range of microbiology and molecular biology analytical methods that are essential in supporting the Environment Agency’s aims and objectives. It will be necessary to comply with Health and Safety standards, policies and procedures at all times.
You should be educated to a minimum of BTEC / GCSE or equivalent in an appropriate scientific subject along with Maths and English. Experience in the analysis of microbiological samples is essential. Knowledge and experience of molecular analysis (qPCR/NGS) would also be advantageous.
You will need to demonstrate the key capabilities as defined in the Job Profile which include; Team Work, Attention to Detail, Delivery of Work, Customer Focus and Communication Skills. Applicants will also need to be computer literate as they will be required to use a variety of IT applications e.g. Microsoft Office/Excel.
You will have the opportunity to work towards becoming a Registered Scientist with the Institute of Science and Technology as part of your development.
The role will be based on a 37 hour week working Tuesday to Saturday.

The site is served by regular public transport.

For further information please contact Jackie Tucker on 02030250034

27/09/2019, 23:55 hours

Basic Check
Achieves Results
Achieves Results: Analyse samples to ensure effective delivery of a high quality analytical service to defined time, cost and quality targets.
Health Safety & Wellbeing
Health, Safety and Wellbeing: Making sure your own behaviour reduces risks to the health, safety and wellbeing of yourself and others.
Works in Teams
Works in Teams: Actively involves themselves and participates in team activities, supports the line manager in developing the team.
Focuses on Efficiency, Innovation and Quality
Focuses on Efficiency, Innovation and Quality: Accurately collects, enters and maintains data in line with Environment Agency & NLS procedures.
If you are applying from the Civil Service please note that the Environment Agency is not a part of HM Civil Service and you would not be a Crown Servant in the event of being appointed. Therefore, you will not be eligible for continuous service. For applicants who currently work in local government or other bodies listed in the Redundancy Payments (Continuity of Employment in Local Government etc) (Modification) Order 1999, you may be eligible for continuous service for the purpose of calculating any future redundancy payment. If you are unsure of your status then you should contact your own HR Team.

We are fully committed to having a diverse and inclusive workforce to reflect the communities we serve. We welcome flexible working patterns for all our vacancies, including job share, so please include clearly any information regarding your preferred working arrangements on your application.

We also have a Guaranteed Interview Policy to support those with a disability who are seeking employment. We have committed to guaranteeing an interview to anyone with a disability whose application meets the minimum criteria for the post.

The Environment Agency, as a Non-Departmental Public Body, is committed to providing value for money and utilises Central Government frameworks and contracts for all external recruitment needs. For this reason, we are unable to engage with the market directly through post, email or phone calls . Should you wish to become a support supplier on one of these frameworks or contracts please visit https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/become-a-crown-commercial-service-supplier/becoming-a-supplier-through-the-crown-commercial-service-what-you-need-to-know for more information.

This Vacancy is closed to applications.