Laboratory Scientist (Microbiology)

SRUC; Scotland; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A veterinary laboratory in Scotland seeks a Laboratory Scientist to join its Microbiology team. The role involves culturing samples, identifying bacteria, and maintaining UKAS accreditation. Candidates should have a degree in microbiology or a related field, with equivalent experience considered. The position offers flexible working patterns and generous benefits including annual leave and professional development opportunities.

Benefits

Generous annual leave

Enhanced pension contributions

Cycle to work scheme

Discounted RAC Membership

Generous family leave

Tailored investment in learning and development

Flexible working patterns

Qualifications

• A degree in a related field (SCQF Level 9 or above) is required.
• Equivalent laboratory experience will be considered in place of a formal degree.
• Experience with microbiological analysis is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Culturing various sample types from post-mortem examinations.
• Identifying bacteria using MALDI-TOF MS and biochemical tests.
• Conducting antimicrobial sensitivity testing and preparing microscopic examinations.
• Reporting results in the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS).
• Maintaining the laboratory's UKAS accreditation status.

Skills

Microbiology knowledge

Bacterial identification

Antimicrobial sensitivity testing

Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS)

Health and safety compliance

Education

Degree in microbiology or veterinary science

Job description

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 comprehensive diagnostic services for farm animals, companion animals and wildlife. The team is involved in passive disease surveillance and supports related research projects, ensuring high standards of animal health and welfare.

Key Functions

• Diagnostic Services: The laboratory offers a wide range of diagnostic tests, including bacterial and fungal cultures, antimicrobial sensitivity testing, and microscopic examinations.
• Disease Surveillance: The team monitors and investigates disease outbreaks, contributing to national and international animal health initiatives.
• Research Projects: Supporting various research projects to advance veterinary science and improve diagnostic techniques.
• Quality Assurance: Maintaining UKAS accreditation through internal and external quality assessments.
• Health and Safety: Ensuring 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 excited to invite applications for the position of Laboratory Scientist, a dynamic role within the Microbiology team at SRUCVS. Our team provides a comprehensive diagnostic service for farm animals, companion animals and wildlife. We are also actively engaged in passive disease surveillance and the support of related research projects.

Key Responsibilities

• Culturing various sample types, including tissues collected during post-mortem examinations.
• Identifying bacteria using MALDI-TOF MS, biochemical tests (e.g., catalase, oxidase, indole) and commercial kits (e.g., API). Conducting antimicrobial sensitivity testing.
• Preparing and interpreting microscopic examinations, including Gram, MZN and ZN smears.
• Reporting results in the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS).
• Maintaining 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.
• Complying with and enhancing current health and safety procedures and the 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 requirements of the role can be found in the Job Particulars document.

Minimum qualifications and experience

A degree in a related field (SCQF Level 9 or above) is required. This could include degrees in microbiology, veterinary science or a similar discipline. Equivalent laboratory experience will also 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, you will need to ensure you have an appropriate visa to evidence the necessary right to work in the UK.

Salary and benefits

• Generous annual leave
• Enhanced pension contributions to contributory pension scheme
• Cycle to work scheme
• Discounted RAC Membership
• Generous family leave
• We encourage Continuing Professional Development with a tailored investment in an individual's learning and development
• Flexible working patterns
• 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 respecting human rights throughout the organisation and encourages applications from disabled people using the “Disability Confident Employer” symbol. SRUC is a member of the Athena SWAN charter.

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