Job Purpose
At the UK National Measurement Laboratory (NML) for chemical and bio-measurements, we deliver world leading measurement science to solve complex global challenges.
Within the NML the Inorganic Analysis team work on a range of national and international research projects developing reference methodology and high accuracy calibration and measurement services and best practice in support of LGC’s role as the NML. In addition, the team undertakes contract research and development projects for a range of customers in both the public and private sectors. The team is equipped with a wide range of mass spectrometric techniques for applications in elemental analysis, nanomaterials characterisation, organo-metallic speciation, isotope ratio measurements and solid sampling and imaging applications. The instrumentation includes particle tracking analysis, multi-angle dynamic and static light scattering, elemental analyser-IRMS, ESI MS/MS and ICP-MS (single and triple quadrupole, magnetic sector, time-of-flight and multi-collector) coupled to LC, GC, asymmetrical flow field-flow-fractionation (AF4), gravitational field-flow-fractionation and laser ablation.
The job holder will supervise and deliver project work in the area of bio-clinical speciation analysis, initially focusing on the development of methodology for the accurate quantification and identification of key biomarkers of metal metabolism/disorders (e.g. metalloproteins) for disease diagnostics and therapy, down to the single cell level. This will require the use of element-specific detection and ESI MS/MS in combination with separation techniques, novel sample preparation and fractionation methods and work with isotopically enriched species and small bio-clinical samples .
Key Responsibilities
Day-to-day planning and management of the bio-clinical speciation/metallomics research and development work Liaison with Project Managers, Principal Scientist and research collaborators to ensure that speciation project work is delivered according to agreed specifications for quality, time and budget Technical supervision and mentoring of staff delivering bio-clinical speciation research and development project work Line management of core speciation/metallomics research staff Preparation of reports and scientific publications with minimal input of Principal Scientist Presentation of work at scientific conferences and meetings. Development and coordination of project work within International Metrology Programmes Perform and lead on analysis as part of our reference measurement services for internal and external clients (e.g. for reference material production, inter-comparison studies and contract analysis). Qualifications
Knowledge, Experience and Technical Skills
Enthusiastic and innovative scientist with a strong desire to develop their own technical skill set and support the development and delivery of the team’s research portfolio. Demonstrable experience and understanding in the use an application of a range of techniques and sample preparation methods used for bio-clinical speciation analysis HPLC-ICP-MS for the analysis of bio-clinical species Combined use of HPLC-ICP-MS with ES MS/MS for species identification (highly desirable) Experience with handling, preparation and analysis of bio-clinical samples (highly desirable) Hyphenated field-flow-fractionation (desirable) Strategies for single cell analysis (desirable) Experience with imaging techniques (desirable) Proven technical leadership and line management skills Self-reliant and self-motivated but team player Ability to display good organisation and communication skills, both oral and written An appreciation of the importance of working within a quality system and knowledge of good laboratory practice Ability to deliver work within timescale & budget Methodical approach to work Excellent attention to detail
Person Specification
Ideally, the successful candidate will have a PhD or equivalent experience in bio-clinical/chemistry with an aptitude for and experience in the use of hyphenated ICP-MS (likely combined with ES MS/MS).
The job holder will be able to demonstrate the following behaviours in line with LGC’s values:
Passion, Curiosity, Integrity, Brilliance, Respect
About The National Measurement Laboratory
Measurement matters, as it affects everything from food and drink to medicine.
At the NML we have a strong heritage in measurement science. We are the UK’s designated institute for chemical and bio measurement, and the home of the Government Chemist.
The Government Chemist role was created in 1909 and now it oversees the statutory function of referee analyst within the UK, resolving disputes over analytical measurements, particularly in relation to food regulatory enforcement.
The UK was one of the pioneers within the global measurement community to recognise the need to address the new and developing challenges of measurement across chemistry and biology. In 1988, the then Government Chemist launched the first UK programme to develop a chemical and bio-measurement infrastructure and the NML was born.
https://www.lgcgroup.com/uk-national-measurement-laboratory/
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Our Benefits
25 days annual leave, generous pension plan, season ticket loans, buy/sell holiday scheme, life assurance, retail discounts and more.
Apply Before
18/02/2022