Research Analyst

At the UK National Measurement Laboratory (NML) for chemical and bio-measurements hosted at LGC, 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) and laser ablation.

The job holder will contribute to the development, optimisation and validation of analytical methods to deliver NML work, in particular in the imaging and single cell analysis areas. They will be required to use advanced instrumental techniques, and to employ a variety of sample preparation techniques with appropriate training provided.

Key Responsibilities

• Day-to-day planning and delivery of challenging research and development work on the imaging and single cell analysis area with support from line manager and senior scientists.
• Development and execution of analytical methodologies (ICPMS, Laser ablation, single cell) for quantitative elemental analysis.
• Maintain written records in accordance with company quality procedures, and review colleagues work to the same standard.
• Provide presentations, training and advice to others to share learnings and promote increased scientific understanding around analytical methodology.

Knowledge, Experience and Technical Skills

The successful candidate will have, or be on track to complete, a degree in chemistry or analytical chemistry (MSc level) or equivalent industrial experience. Training, as appropriate, will be provided on instrumentation for this role.  The successful candidate will be able to demonstrate the following attributes: 

• A good track record in delivering complex and challenging research and development projects within timescale & budget
• Enthusiastic and innovative scientist with a strong desire to develop their own technical skill set and support the delivery of the team’s research portfolio.
• A rational approach to problem solving with strong attention to detail and ability to accurately record observations, data and conclusions during experimental investigations.
• Self-motivated team player with good organisational skills
• Good communication skills, both oral and written, with experience in independent writing of project reports and presentation of data
• A positive attitude to learning to use new technology and develop process improvements
• Team player 

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 biological 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.uknml.com/

About LGC:

LGC is a leading, global life science tools company, providing mission-critical components and solutions into high-growth application areas across the human healthcare and applied market segments. Its high-quality product portfolio is comprised of mission-critical tools for genomic analysis and for quality assurance applications, which are typically embedded and recurring within our customers’ products and workflows and are valued for their performance, quality, and range. 

Our values

• PASSION
• CURIOSITY 
• INTEGRITY
• BRILLIANCE
• RESPECT

Equal opportunity

LGC strongly believes that every job applicant and employee should be valued for their individual talents regardless of age, disability, race, color, ethnic or national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, marital or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, religion, or belief. Short listing, interviewing and selection will always be carried out without regard to gender, sexual orientation, marital status, color, race, nationality, ethnic or national origins, religion or belief, age, or trade union membership.

For more information about LGC, please visit our website www.lgcgroup.com

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