Scientific Lead - Biology Portfolio

Government Recruitment Service; Birmingham; Hybrid; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A government agency is seeking a dedicated individual to oversee the biology portfolio within the Regulator's office in Birmingham. The role involves managing strategic committees, developing guidelines, and advising on quality standards in forensic science. Candidates should be prepared for some travel to meet stakeholders, with flexibility for full-time or part-time work options. This position is vital for advising on scientific and regulatory issues, ensuring the highest quality in forensic practices.

Responsibilities

• Ownership of biology portfolio according to statutory Code of Practice.
• Development and review of statutory guidance published by the Regulator.
• Provision of scientific advice on forensic science quality standards.
• Strategic leadership of Biology and Medical Forensic Specialist Groups.
• Lead on quality failure referrals and recommend actions.
• Represent the Regulator at meetings and conferences.
• Support the corporate functions of the Regulator’s office.
• Line management of one Higher Executive Officer.

Job description

The post holder will report directly to the Head of the Office of the Forensic Science Regulator’s Office.

The role requires significant engagement with stakeholders and practitioner communities. The post holder will advise the Regulator on scientific, quality, and regulatory issues relating to forensic science including biological and DNA related disciplines.

Key Responsibilities

• Ownership of the biology portfolio of FSAs as defined in the Regulator’s statutory Code of Practice.
• Development and continual review of relevant statutory guidance published by the Regulator.
• Provision of scientific and technical advice relevant to forensic science quality standards to the Regulator and key stakeholders.
• Strategic leadership of the Biology Specialist Group (BIOSG) and Medical Forensic Specialist Group (MFSG) and their working groups and support the Chairs of the BIOSG, MFSG and the sub-group Chairs.
• Taking the lead on behalf of the Regulator for investigating and recommending action on quality failure referrals, seeking stakeholder and legal advice where necessary.
• Representing the Regulator and Head of Office at meetings, conferences, briefings and supporting the Regulator at meetings and discussions.
• Supporting the corporate functions of the Regulator’s Office including correspondence management, secretariat support, and development of policies and procedures.
• It is expected that the post holder will line manage one Higher Executive Officer.

Working Pattern

This role is available on a full-time basis with the option of compressed hours working.

This role is also suitable for part-time working hours, with a minimum requirement to work 30 hours / 4 days per week due to business requirements.

Travel

Monthly travel to Birmingham / London offices is required. Whilst not a requirement for the role, occasional travel within the UK to meet with stakeholders would be beneficial.

Travel costs incurred for business need will be reimbursed in line with Home Office travel policy.