Principal Named Training and Competency Officer

Principal Named Training and Competency Officer

Details of the role

Working pattern: Monday – Friday. This is a full-time permanent position on Crick terms and conditions of employment.

About us

The Francis Crick Institute is Europe’s largest biomedical research institute under one roof. Our world-class scientists and staff collaborate on vital research to help prevent, diagnose and treat illnesses such as cancer, heart disease, infectious diseases and neurodegenerative conditions.

The Biological Research Facility supports all animal research at the Crick through our comprehensive animal care and use programme. The Biological Research Facility provides the Crick's laboratory animal resource and technical services. High quality multidisciplinary in-vivo and ex-vivo research support is at the heart of the BRF's philosophy and operations.

About the role

This is a new role within the Crick focused on ensuring effective and expert advice and training is available for those working with animals, whilst ensuring compliance with the Animal (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986 (Amended 2012) act.

You will act as the Principal Named Training and Competency Officer (NTCO) for the Crick and, working with the other NTCOs, will have primary responsibility for ensuring that all those working with animals at the Crick are adequately educated, trained, supervised, and competent, and that up-to-date training records and associated documentation are maintained.

Having an in-depth knowledge of ASPA and experience in animal research, you will be able to interpret research proposals and experimental protocols to ensure compliance with the Act and those working under it, using that expertise to advise on procedures, diagnose problems, and proactively resolve issues which arise

What you will be doing

Some of your key responsibilities will include but are not limited to:

• Named Training and Competency Officer (NTCO) with responsibility to ensure that all those dealing with animals are adequately educated, trained and supervised until they are competent and that they continue to undertake appropriate further training to maintain their expertise
• Coordinate the direction of the Cricks NTCOs to ensure standardisation of training and assessment meets the requirements of Cricks operations, UK regulatory framework and recognised best practice.
• Maintenance of a process for overview of the conduct of experimental procedures involving animals, monitor performance and take appropriate corrective action to ensure performance standards are consistently met. Recognise issues of non-compliance, and take appropriate action.
• Development and maintenance Crick database for management, demonstration and recording of training and competency, CPD and education to meet current and future demands, including maintenance of the register of those competent to humanely kill animals.
• Development & maintenance of a system to onboard all new PILh and those working with animals, discussing training needs, engaging PPLhs, and advising an appropriate training plan.
• Together with the Head of Compliance to undertake periodic reviews of compliance under ASPA, putting measures into place to reduce risk of any non-compliance, such as the annual PIL refreshers and licence audits.

About you

Key experience you will have:

• Experienced holder of a Home Office personal licence (PIL A,B,C)
• A professional qualification, or degree in basic or applied science or substantial relevant experience working under ASPA
• Current and comprehensive knowledge, interpretation, and application of the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986 and associated Home Office Guidelines, and application of the 3Rs (Replacement, Reduction and Refinement of Animals in Research).
• Experience in the training of licensees assessment of competence and development of DOPS
• Proven managerial experience and responsibility for a team/s and expertise in training and supervision of staff
• Able to foster external relationships and contacts relevant to the role

Please see the full job description here

About Working at the Crick

Our values

Everyone who works at the Crick has a valuable role to play in advancing the Crick’s mission and shaping our culture!

• We are bold. We make space for creative, dynamic and imaginative ideas and approaches. We’re not afraid to do things differently.
• We are open. We’re highly collaborative and interactive, and make sure our activities are visible to the outside world.
• We are collegial. We show respect for one another, work cooperatively and support the wider community.

At the Francis Crick Institute, we believe that diversity and inclusion are essential to driving innovation and scientific discovery. We are committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to succeed, regardless of their background, identity, or personal circumstances. We actively encourage applications from individuals of all genders, ethnicities, abilities, and experiences. We are a Disability Confident: Committed employer and want to ensure that everyone can apply and be part of our recruitment processes and so we'll make reasonable adjustments if you need them - just let us know when you apply. If you need assistance with applying (i.e., would like to apply by phone or post) please email: [email protected]

Find out more about life at the Crick.

What will you receive?

At the Francis Crick Institute, we value our team members and are proud to offer an extensive range of benefits to support their well-being and development:

• Visas: Applicants for this role will be eligible for sponsorship to work in the UK
• Generous Leave: 28 days of annual leave, plus three additional days over Christmas and bank holidays.
• Pension Scheme: Defined contribution pension with employer contributions of up to 16%.
• Health & Well-being:
• 24/7 GP consultation services.
• Occupational health services and mental health support programs.
• Eye care vouchers and discounted healthcare plans.
• Work-Life Balance:
• Back-up care for dependents.
• Childcare support allowance.
• Annual leave purchase options.
• Crick Networks offering diverse groups’ support, community and inclusive social events.
• Perks:
• Discounted gym memberships, bike-to-work scheme, and shopping discounts.
• Subsidised on-site restaurant and social spaces for team interaction.