Laboratory Scientist

SRUC; Penicuik; Hybrid; GBP 28,000 - 36,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Generous annual leave

Enhanced pension contributions

Cycle to work scheme

Discounted RAC Membership

Generous family leave

Continuing Professional Development (CPD)

Hybrid working solutions (in some areas)

Job summary

A prominent agricultural college in Scotland is seeking a Laboratory Scientist for their Microbiology team. The role involves diagnostic testing, research participation, and maintaining UKAS accreditation. Candidates should have a degree in microbiology or veterinary science. This position offers generous annual leave, enhanced pension contributions, and hybrid working solutions. Saturday work is required on a rota basis.

Qualifications

• A degree in a related field such as microbiology or veterinary science is required.
• Equivalent laboratory experience will be considered in place of a formal degree.
• Demonstrated ability to maintain UKAS accreditation

Responsibilities

• Identify bacteria using MALDI-TOF MS and biochemical tests.
• Prepare and interpret microscopic examinations.
• Report results in the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS).
• Maintain the laboratory's UKAS accreditation.
• Saturday work required on a rota basis.
• Comply with health and safety procedures.

Skills

MALDI-TOF MS

Biochemical testing

Microscopy interpretation

Antimicrobial susceptibility testing

LIMS reporting

Quality assurance mindset

Education

SCQF Level 9+ degree in microbiology or veterinary science

Tools

API kits

LIMS software

Job description

Overview

Laboratory Scientist role at SRUC.

Closing date for applications: 15th October 2025

About the team:

The SRUC Veterinary Analytical Laboratory, located at Pentlands Science Park in Roslin, Midlothian, is a key facility within Scotland's Rural College (SRUC). This laboratory provides diagnostic services for farm animals, companion animals, and wildlife, supports passive disease surveillance, and participates in related research projects to maintain high standards of animal health and welfare.

Key Functions:

• Diagnostic Services: A wide range of diagnostic tests including bacterial and fungal cultures, antimicrobial sensitivity testing, and microscopic examinations.
• Disease Surveillance: Monitor and investigate disease outbreaks, contributing to national and international animal health initiatives.
• Research Projects: Support various research projects to advance veterinary science and improve diagnostic techniques.
• Quality Assurance: Maintain UKAS accreditation through internal and external quality assessments.
• Health and Safety: Ensure compliance with health and safety procedures to maintain a safe working environment.

The SRUC Veterinary Analytical Laboratory is an essential resource for veterinary surgeons, farmers, and researchers, providing expert support and innovative solutions to enhance animal health and productivity.

About the opportunity:

We are inviting applications for the Laboratory Scientist role within the Microbiology team at SRUCVS. The team provides a comprehensive diagnostic service for farm animals, companion animals, and wildlife, and is involved in passive disease surveillance and related research projects.

Key Responsibilities:

• Identify bacteria using MALDI-TOF MS, biochemical tests (e.g., catalase, oxidase, indole), and commercial kits (e.g., API). Conduct antimicrobial sensitivity testing.
• Prepare and interpret microscopic examinations, including Gram, MZN, and ZN smears.
• Report results in the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS).
• Maintain the laboratory's UKAS accreditation status through internal and external quality assessment exercises.
• Saturday work (on a rota basis), between 9:00am and 1:30pm.
• Comply with and enhance current health and safety procedures and culture within the laboratory.

If you are passionate about microbiology and eager to contribute to our diagnostics and disease surveillance programme, we encourage you to apply and join our dedicated team.

Further details of the role requirements can be found in the Job Particulars document.

Minimum qualifications and experience:

A degree in a related field (SCQF Level 9 or above) such as microbiology or veterinary science is required. Equivalent laboratory experience will be considered in place of a formal degree.

For detailed information on the required qualifications and experience, please refer to the Job Particulars document.

Admin ref: AMT/VS/034/25

Eligibility for Sponsorship:

This role is not eligible for sponsorship under the Skilled Worker route. If you are a migrant worker, ensure you have appropriate visa rights to evidence the necessary right to work in the UK.

Salary and benefits:

• Generous annual leave
• Enhanced pension contributions to the contributory pension scheme
• Cycle to work scheme
• Discounted RAC Membership
• Generous family leave
• Continuing Professional Development (CPD) with tailored investment in learning
• Hybrid working solutions (in some areas)

How to Apply:

Please complete an online application form by pressing “apply”.

Full details can be found in the Job Particulars document downloadable from the link above.

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SRUC is committed to valuing diversity, advancing equality and respect for human rights. Applications from disabled people are encouraged under the Disability Confident Employer scheme. SRUC is a member of the Athena SWAN charter.

SRUC. A charitable company limited by guarantee, SC003712. Registered in Scotland No SC103046