Viral Surveillance Unit (VSU) Manager

About the role

The Moredun Research Institute is recruiting a new manager for our Viral Surveillance Unit (VSU). The post requires you to hold a Degree in Veterinary Medicine along with Membership of the Royal College of Veterinary surgeons (or eligibility for membership) and will ensure delivery of high-quality diagnostic and disease surveillance services to stakeholders, including the Scottish livestock community and the Scottish Government.

This is a rare opportunity to manage a specialist research laboratory, support national surveillance programmes and to build, and deliver on, a cutting-edge research programme.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the Virus Surveillance Unit, delivering accurate and timely diagnostic services.
• Develop, validate and implement novel diagnostic tests to address emerging disease threats.
• Manage a laboratory in accordance with ISO9002 and Health & Safety standards and act as the LIMS administrator for the VSU and Pathology Unit.
• Supervise a team of staff including one laboratory manager and two research assistants.
• Deliver research aligned with the RESAS Strategic Research Programme and secure external funding.
• Represent the organisation at scientific events and engage in active knowledge exchange.

The successful candidate will be forward-thinking, combining scientific excellence with strong leadership and communication skills. You will thrive in a fast-paced environment with an exciting blend of disease surveillance, stakeholder interaction and innovation. You will join a respected, collaborative and highly skilled scientific team at the forefront of animal disease research and diagnostics. We offer professional development opportunities, an inclusive culture and the chance to make a meaningful impact on animal health, welfare and agricultural policy in Scotland.

Experience required

• Hold a degree in Veterinary Medicine and be eligible for membership of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS).
• Significant experience in virology, microbiology and veterinary diagnostics.
• Strong track record in project design, grant writing and delivery of externally funded research.
• Proven team management, leadership and mentoring experience.
• Familiarity with LIMS and ISO/quality assurance procedures

Desirable Experience:

• PhD in microbiology, virology or biotechnology.
• Experience in the development of molecular and serological diagnostic tests.
• Experience in animal disease surveillance.

Staff benefits

In addition to access to training and development opportunities, you will access to:

• Competitive pension scheme – employee contribution minimum 3%. Moredun will contribute up to a maximum of 15%.
• Group Life Assurance Scheme and an Income Protection Scheme
• Flexi-time system
• 6 weeks annual leave plus 7 days public holidays and a privilege day
• Free access to an Employee Assistance Programme
• Benefits platform offering discounts at various retailers
• On site café.