DNA analyst & Deputy Laboratory Manager

DNA Analyst & Deputy Laboratory Manager

Location: RG7 4PR, located between Reading and Basingstoke, with free onsite parking.

Package: GBP23,290 - GBP33,170 (depending on your suitability, qualifications, and level of experience)

Working pattern: AWE operates a 9-day working fortnight. We will consider flexible working requests to fit your lifestyle. Just let us know your preferred working pattern in your application.

Let us introduce the role

AWE is currently recruiting a Deputy Lab Manager and DNA Analyst for the Radiochemistry Group. This unique role is ideally suited to an individual with lab management experience who can conduct laboratory processes. The suitable candidate will split their time across two core areas:

1. Deputy Lab Manager: Support procurement, organization, and maintenance of the radiochemical science laboratories to enable operations. Effective stakeholder management is required.
2. DNA Analyst: Become trained to perform DNA analysis in AWE laboratories. Work will include maintenance and development of these processes to deliver a robust capability.

While previous experience in these areas is desirable, on-the-job training will be provided by experienced colleagues.

The Radiochemistry Group within the Materials & Analytical Science (MAS) Function supports multiple programmes at AWE, including Conventional & Nuclear Forensics for our Nuclear Threat Reduction customer.

Who are we looking for?

We are particularly interested in candidates with practical experience in a scientific support role and who are motivated to further their career within a technical environment. To be considered, you should be able to work flexibly within a close team environment and possess good interpersonal skills. A formal qualification in a scientific discipline is desirable, although equivalent qualifications or experience will be considered.

Required skills, experience, and behaviours:

• Keen attitude to learning.
• Desire for on-the-job development within a technical field.
• Strong team player with experience working towards common goals.
• Ability to deliver technical objectives on time and to quality.
• Capability to perform operational safety checks to support safe laboratory operations.
• Maintain compliance with company processes, standards, and procedures.
• Support continuous improvement activities.
• Willingness to work with hazardous chemicals and radioactive materials.
• Able to work against defined operating procedures without close supervision.
• Competently manage information on behalf of a team.

Preferred experience:

• Understanding of working with radioactive material.
• Experience working to safe systems of work and managing associated documentation.
• Strong communication skills, both written and oral.
• Strong IT skills with willingness to contribute to data management.
• Experience or knowledge of regulatory requirements.
• Good knowledge of Forensic Science.
• Relevant academic or industrial experience in Forensic DNA.
• Experience in an ISO17025 accredited laboratory.

Reasons to love it here:

• 9-day working fortnight - every other Friday off, plus 270 hours of annual leave.
• Market leading contributory pension scheme (9% to 13% of your pensionable pay based on your contributions).
• Family friendly policies: Maternity Leave - 39 Weeks Full Pay, Paternity Leave - 4 Weeks Full Pay.
• Opportunities for Professional Career Development.
• Employee Assistance Programme and Occupational Health Services.
• Life Assurance (4 x annual salary).
• Discounts on everyday spending.
• Special Leave Policy for volunteering, public service, and caring.

For full details, visit the 'Working at AWE' page on our website and refer to the 'AWE Benefits Guide'.

Due to the classified nature of the work, there are limited opportunities to work from home. The successful candidate will primarily work on-site at AWE Aldermaston.