Senior Development Scientist - PDPU

Job summary

The Protein Development and Production Unit (PDPU) is part of the International Blood Group Reference Laboratory (IBGRL) which performs a vital role within NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT). The International Blood Group Reference Laboratory (IBGRL) was set up in 1946 to centralise production of blood grouping reagents and provide a reference centre for the newly formed National Blood Service, so IBGRL is as old as the NHS and over the years has built up an international reputation as being a centre for excellence. The PDPU is involved in a range of projects to develop and produce recombinant proteins and monoclonal antibodies. These reagents, some of which are CE marked, are used in diagnostic tests and for research. These reagents are supplied internally for use within NHSBT (e.g. the Red Cell Immunohaematology - RCI) department which provides a role in solving complex serological cross matching cases), and externally to hospitals, academic institutions and commercial customers worldwide. NHSBT provides many opportunities for career advancement. We will provide you with an induction and training to support you in your role.

Main duties of the job

In this role you will be required to undertake routine and development activities within the Protein Development and Production Unit (PDPU) including production, Quality Control (QC) and development projects. You should have extensive experience in a wide range of laboratory techniques such as molecular biology, cell culture, immunoassay and protein purification. Other laboratory experience such as flow cytometry and serological testing would also be desirable. Your responsibilities will include:- Performing highly specialist development activities in particular area(s) such as the development of soluble recombinant proteins and as novel reagents for use within NHSBT (e.g. Red Cell Immunohaematology) using molecular and cellular techniques. Production of novel soluble recombinant proteins and monoclonal antibodies to be used as reagents required by NHSBT and external customers & collaborators worldwide. The ability to prioritise workload against conflicting demands and be able to resolve a range of complex scientific/technical problems. Working independently, and with staff across departments as well as external customers/collaborators in addition to communicating complex specialist information, both orally and in writing, to scientific staff and customers/ collaborators. You will be required to provide cover in times of operational difficulty and out of office alarms for which notice will be given.

About us

It takes all types of people to deliver the kind of service that saves and improves lives. At NHS Blood and Transplant, youll join a team of more than 6,000 people who are making a genuine difference to communities, families, friends, relatives and more across the UK. We play a unique and special role in the NHS by helping people do something extraordinary- donate blood, blood products, organs, tissues, or stem cells to save someone in need. Our three core values are what set us apart. They guide and inspire everything we do. By being caring, expertly meeting the needs of our patients and our people, and accepting nothing less than the best quality, we can do extraordinary work and help our people to do something extraordinary in their career, too. Three small words, one big difference - Caring, Expert and Quality. Together we'll save and improve more lives than ever. You will join us on our journey to create an inclusive workplace and aim to reflect the diverse communities we work with, and we positively encourage applications from all sectors of the community.