The Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) delivers high-impact science for the UK's defence, security and prosperity.  In order to do this, we need self-motivated people who can apply their skills to ensure we are at the forefront of science. We work in niche areas which are sensitive in nature, operationally-critical to the UK and internationally recognised in importance.

Our Analytical Chemistry Capability is the UK’s centre of excellence for identification, quantification and attribution of chemical warfare agents (CWAs) in environmental and clinical samples.

We require a highly motivated and experienced analytical chemist, with proven leadership skills and with expertise in analysing protein/peptides by mass spectrometry to help advance our capability to analyse toxins and related chemicals.

You will be part of the Analytical Chemistry Team and be responsible for leading small technical teams to deliver fundamental research and development of novel methodologies, conduct method validations and future exploitation of the methods for analysis of real world samples using high resolution liquid chromatography mass spectrometry. This also includes participation in national and international proficiency tests.

The role will receive appropriate training to work safely and securely in our laboratories, within an ISO/IEC 17025 quality system.

• Current practical experience in Liquid Chromatography High Resolution Mass Spectrometry of proteins/peptides
• Knowledge of relevant software such as Proteome Discoverer or similar
• Experience of method development and validation, ideally within a quality framework
• The ability to critically analyse data and deliver research outputs that align with customer requirements.
• Experience of successfully leading small technical teams
• The ability to work flexibly, independently and as part of a team
• Desire to develop their personal and professional skills and those of less experienced staff through training and mentorship
• The potential to expand science and technology networks including developing national and international collaboration

•    Develop technical project proposals to meet customer requirements
•    Lead method validations/work packages including planning, experimentation and reporting
•    Provide clear and precise briefs, both written and verbal, on project outcomes to support science and technology decisions for Dstl and its customers
•    Network with specialists internal and external to Dstl to seek out developments in related technical areas and use these networks to boost innovation
•    Provide timely technical support to laboratory based research, analysis and evaluation of novel methodologies to help inform customer decision-making
•    Participate in competency assessments and annual proficiency testing schemes
•    Analyse real world samples

Job Dimensions

The Analytical Chemistry (AC) Team currently consists of approximately 31 staff managed by 3 Team Leaders. The expertise within the team includes Lab Technicians, Trainee Analytical Chemists, Analytical Chemists, Senior Analytical Chemists, Principal Analytical Chemists and a Technical Leadership team. You will be part of the AC Team working within CBR Division’s Chemical and Biological Analysis and Attribution Capability, where you will interact with scientists in various subject areas