Laboratory Scientist (Microbiology)

Job Description

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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 is dedicated to providing comprehensive diagnostic services for farm animals, companion animals, and wildlife. The team at the laboratory is actively involved in passive disease surveillance and the support of 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 rigorous 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, 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:

• 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 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/018/26

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 individuals’ learning and development
• Hybrid working solutions (in some areas)

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

SRUC Leading the way in Agricultural and Rural Research, Education & Consultancy

SRUC is committed to valuing Diversity, advancing Equality and respecting Human Rights throughout the organisation and encouraging applications from disabled people using the “Disability Confident Employer” symbol. SRUC is a member of the Athena SWAN charter.

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