Clinical Fellow, Rare & Imported Pathogens at UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA)

Job Overview

The job is based at the Rare and Imported Pathogens Laboratory (RIPL), UKHSA Porton Down, and is an opportunity to learn about the recognition, diagnosis, and management of a wide range of imported and zoonotic diseases.    The job is suitable for a trainee ideally towards the end of their training programme, but as a minimum at ST3 or above in microbiology, virology, infectious diseases in single or combined specialty training. Candidates will be expected to have a basic knowledge of laboratory practice in microbiology and virology, and a good understanding of the pathological basis of disease and case management. Under the supervision of the RIPL consultants, the post-holder will form an active member of the clinical team. Responsibilities will include:

• Input into the design and delivery of a national clinical metagenomic next generation sequencing service for imported infection
• Provision of specialist clinical services and advice within the scope of RIPL’s activities relating to the care and treatment of patients, infection control and environmental sampling, acting as a primary point of contact for clinicians
• Interpretation and reporting of laboratory results
• Taking an active part in the scientific research activities supporting the work of RIPL and the evidence base for the test strategies we employ
• Participation in the quality and governance programmes of RIPL to develop an understanding of laboratory management

The primary role for this candidate will be to develop the national metagenomic next generation sequencing (mNGS) service for imported infection at RIPL. This will include having input into the design and delivery of an end-to-end service: from the requesting and advising on sample collection from the patient end, the receipt and handling of specimens at RIPL, the wet lab processes and the interpretation and communication of results. Evaluation of this new service as it is starts will be key and regular reporting will be required. Whilst desirable, prior experience of any aspect mNGS is not necessary, but the candidate can anticipate a steep learning curve in a supportive and nurturing environment. The candidate will also contribute to the development of surveillance mechanisms for mNGS data generated by NHS and non-NHS clinical services through the UKHSA mSCAPE project.

Details

The successful candidate will be appointed to the point of the Consultant salary scale appropriate to their years of seniority or if from a background other than medicine to NHS Agenda for Change Band 8d.

Applicants must hold:

• Recognised medical degree meeting UK requirements for registration
• Registered for a UK or equivalent international medical specialist trainee programme in microbiology, virology, infectious diseases, or a relevant combined programme
• GMC registration or eligibility for registration

For further information or an informal discussion about the post, please contact: Dr Catherine Houlihan consultant in infection at RIPL UKHSA catherine.houlihan@ukhsa.gov.uk or Dr Tommy Rampling consultant in infection at RIPL UKHSA tommy.rampling@ukhsa.gov.uk

Option 3 – External

Open to all external applicants (anyone) from outside the Civil Service (including by definition internal applicants).

UK Health Security Agency promoted diversity in the workplace and is an Equal Opportunities employer.

For further information regarding this role and to apply, please visit NHS Jobs www.jobs.nhs.uk and search for Job Reference Number 919-KP-50002672-EXT

Closing date: 6 November 2023.