Senior Radiation Protection Scientist

Grade: SEO Outer - £40,721 to £46,231

We have an exciting opportunity for a Senior Radiation Protection Scientist to join The Cancer Mechanisms and Biomarkers Group. Our group sits within the industry leading Radiation Effects Department of the Centre of Radiation Chemicals and Environmental Hazards (RCE). The Group's primary focus is to investigate the effects of ionizing radiation on carcinogenesis, particularly leukaemia. Our Specific interests are in: Mouse and Human Variation in radiation sensitivity, Genetics of radiation cancer susceptibility, Quantitative biomarkers of radiation exposure and long-term effects, Molecular mechanisms and target cells for radiation leukemogenesis, Assessment of low dose exposure associated effects and risks.

Are you passionate about researching the effects of ionizing radiation? Do you have experience in developing and managing research projects? As a Senior Radiation Protection Scientist, you will lead research projects focusing on the effects of ionizing radiation. You will also be responsible for discovering new biomarkers of radiation exposure, studying the genetics of radiation cancer susceptibility, investigating variation in radiation sensitivity, and developing models of biological dosimeters using human samples, mice, and cell cultures. Apply now to join our team and make a difference in the world of radiation research!

Location

UKHSA Chilton - On-Site

Please be aware that this role can only be worked from within the UK and not overseas. Relocation expenses are not available.

Working Pattern - Full Time

Responsibilities section:

The post holder will be expected to lead and be responsible for assigned projects and apply cellular and molecular biology methods (e.g. RNA extraction, poly A+ enrichment, qPCR, nanopore sequencing, nCounter analysis, cell culture, western blot) to achieve the specific aims of the research projects and thus to contribute to the development of new tools and techniques for research and dosimetry purposes.

• General maintenance and care of murine colonies such as blood samplings, genotyping and health checks
• Assist other members of the Group, Department and other UKHSA colleagues with wider projects as required.
• Production of high-quality scientific manuscripts for publication in international peer-review journals.
• Dissemination of information and scientific data and results to collaborators and the wider research community by presenting posters and oral presentations at relevant national and international scientific meetings and conferences.
• Acquire knowledge and capability (through training) to carry out duties to support major Radiation Emergency Responses.
• Training and supervision of more junior staff and visiting scientists and students
• To assist with monitoring of laboratory stocks.
• To assist the laboratory manager with regular checks on maintenance of equipment and laboratory safety procedures.
• To generate sound laboratory data in support of research projects, to analyse and interpret complex scientific data sets using appropriate software tools including Microsoft Excel, BRB array tools, Graphpad, GIMP, photoshop, Inkskape and Minitab

The duties/responsibilities listed above describe the post as it is at present and is not intended to be exhaustive. The Job holder is expected to accept reasonable alterations and additional tasks of a similar level that may be necessary.

Essential Criteria:

It is important through your application and Statement of Suitability of 1000 words that you give evidence and examples of proven experience of each of the essential criteria (for full details of all essential criteria please refer to the attached job description):

Essential

• PhD in a relevant life science discipline
• Extensive knowledge and experience in a range of modern biological methods including cell culture and molecular biology techniques (RNA and protein extractions, sequencing, Western blotting, PCR, qPCR, multiplex qPCR etc.)
• Experience with mouse handling and related techniques (e.g. gavage, tail bleeding, dissection, genotyping.)
• Hold a Home Office Personal Licence
• Data processing and graphics skills (e.g. Microsoft Office software packages especially Word, Excel and Power Point and also other graphic software like Graphpad, GIMP, photoshop, Inkscape)
• Excellent communication skills, including writing of reports; making scientific and more public-facing presentations, sometimes in difficult situations; and an ability to form productive and maintain working relationships: Ability to form good working relationships with customers and staff.

Desirable

• Knowledge of tissue culture procedures and aseptic techniques
• Knowledge and experience of a statistical software package (e.g. Minitab, Sigma Stat)
• Experience in planning and executing scientific research from start to completion

  For full job description and further details, please click Apply Now.