Forensic Testing Service was founded in 2009 with the sole aim of helping improve the outcomes of childcare proceedings in the family court system.

We are the first testing service in the UK to adopt a model of best practice that combines detailed forensic analysis with substance abuse test results.

An exciting temporary opportunity has arisen for a Development Scientist to join our team. This is to cover maternity leave initially, but could lead to a permanent role for the right person.

Key Responsibilities

• To carry out agreed work plans under guidance from senior members of the development group to develop, validate and implement new test methods in the laboratories, ensuring the standard operating procedures are created. To assist in the training of laboratory staff on new methods before they are introduced routinely.
• With assistance and guidance from senior members of the development group, to participate in specialist analytical investigations, troubleshooting and any support for the analytical service provided by FTS.
• To accurately communicate sensitive and / or highly complex information to users of the service in a manner that is in accordance with departmental procedures. This may include providing specialist analytical advice to other members of the company.
• Assist with the maintenance of analytical equipment within the laboratory, as well as troubleshooting any issues that arise to minimise downtime and disruption to development work and routine analysis.
• Assist with analytical development training to scientists in the analytical laboratory.

Key Tasks

• Apply your experience to make a positive contribution to the development group, helping ensure projects are completed in a timely manner, including the validation and implementation of new analytical methods.
• To perform a wide range of complex analytical and associated procedures. These will include the safe and effective use of complex laboratory equipment. Your level of knowledge and understanding of these procedures will allow you to recognise system failures and errors. You are expected to understand the need to report adverse events when such errors and failures occur and under guidance from senior members of the development group, will take an active role in investigations and troubleshooting. This includes but is not limited to deviations and investigations as well as QC monitoring.
• Ensure compliance with the current national legislation and guidelines relevant to the speciality, particularly ISO17025 and Lab51 standards and promote the use of company and industry best practice within the laboratory.
• Working in different areas of the laboratory you will have the knowledge and skills necessary to contribute towards the provision of an accurate and timely service for clients. With support of senior members of the development group, you will be expected to apply professional judgements and specialist skills to technically complex and sometimes difficult situations. This will include maintaining your own competencies and training of others using instruments and new methods.
• Assist with the development and maintenance of sound documentation systems for all lab methods and processes to ISO17025 and Lab51 standards. This will include taking an active role in developing and improving existing SOPs.
• Assist with routine equipment maintenance (PMs/Call Outs) and routine method maintenance.
• Ensure the maintenance of a safe working environment by having an awareness of the hazards associated with your work and complying will all COSHH, risk assessments and SOP’s. In addition, you will be made aware of any suitable actions to take in the event of breaches in health and safety. Such hazards include fire, manual handling, and breaches of security, controlled and uncontrolled exposure to chemical, biological and radioactive materials.
• To enter, manage, retrieve and interpret complex client information using the laboratory computer system.
• Demonstrate relevant job-related tasks to new or more junior Laboratory staff and to ensure the continued improved efficiency of the process by contributing to the FTS Quality Improvement Programme.
• Carry out horizon scanning to identify and /or suggest new ways of working, new technologies etc. that might provide FTS with a competitive advantage.

As a Development Scientist, you will have access to sensitive (client related) information. The importance and value of personal honesty and integrity as a commitment to client service and confidentiality is essential.

Essential Skills & Experience

• Chemistry, Forensic Science or Toxicology Degree
• Good Laboratory Practice
• Knowledge and experience of using LC-MS/MS
• Excellent interpersonal and problem solving skills
• Knowledge of conventional IT software e.g. Microsoft Office

Desirable Skills & Experience

• MSc or PhD in Chemistry, Forensic Science or Toxicology with a focus on analytical chemistry
• 12 months experience in an ISO 17025 accredited laboratory
• Knowledge and experience of using Waters LC-MS/MS systems and software

Behaviours

• Able to work in a team
• Self motivated
• Flexible approach to work
• Excellent communicator

Benefits

• Company Pension
• Private Healthcare
• Flexi Time
• Free On Site parking