KFS are one of the leading forensic providers in the UK. We pride ourselves on delivering a quality service and building strong working relationships with our customer base. Our team of forensic scientists are experienced in the interpretation and reporting of a wide range of evidence types in support of criminal investigations.

We are passionate about supporting the Criminal Justice system and want to hear from potential employees who share that same passion.

Please read the requirements of the job carefully as your application will be measured against them. Please ensure you have the experience we are looking for. This is a specialist role and as such we will only shortlist those with the relevant experience and attributes.

Purpose of Role

To provide strong and focused technical and operational support, working under the guidance of the Research and Development Lead Analytical Toxicologist, carrying out validation projects and assisting with the subsequent introduction into casework.

Role Summary

Working within the Toxicology Research and Development Team carrying out method development and validation projects under the guidance of the R&D Lead Analytical Toxicologist, including where necessary instrumentation maintenance and troubleshooting and authoring of validation plans and reports.

Duties and Responsibilities

Working under the instruction of the Research and Development Lead Analytical Toxicologist the Technical Specialist will be responsible for:

· Development, validation and implementation of new methods to support extensions to scope, in line with ISO17025 (2017) and the Forensic Science Regulator’s Codes of Practice & Conduct.

· Drawing up of validation protocols and the production of validation reports in compliance with KFS Quality Management System.

· Technical evaluation and refinement of existing processes and development of more efficient and robust methods.

· Support investigations into Quality Control trends when required.

· Advising on and carrying out quality investigations.

· Delivering training to Toxicology analytical team when required.

Skills and Competencies

· Excellent understanding of drug extraction techniques, notably LLE and SPE.

· A thorough understanding of immunoassay and chromatographic techniques (such as ELISA, HS-GC-FID, GC-MS, LC-MS/MS and HPLC-DAD).

· Troubleshooting LC-MS/MS instrumentation, both hardware and software.

· A thorough understanding of good laboratory practice including ISO17025 and anti-contamination protocols is essential

· Technically minded and the ability to problem solve effectively.

· Customer focused with demonstrable commercial acumen.

· Strong IT capability to include Microsoft Office and excel with an ability to analyse data.

· Analytical thinking, including planning and scheduling.

· Ability to work independently and prioritize workload in an effective manner

· Familiarity with AB Sciex, Thermo and/or Waters equipment

Personal Attributes

· Demonstrates an understanding of the importance of casework in the context of the Criminal Justice System and the Code of Practice of the Forensic Science Regulator.

· Highly motivated individual who approaches work with a positive attitude.

· Able to work on their own initiative and with exceptional attention to detail.

· Understands the importance of the customer and contractual tender requirements.

· High level of honesty and integrity and takes responsibility for own actions.

· Strong work ethic and commitment

· Team player with well-developed interpersonal skills, a positive attitude and a willingness to support others.

· Exceptional attention to detail.

· Uses own initiative to achieve timely completion of work.

· Ability to work methodically and reliably under pressure.

· Proactive in maintaining continual professional development where appropriate.

Qualifications

· Minimum of degree in a scientific subject.

· A minimum of 3 years experience carrying out method development and validation projects in a Toxicology setting.

Terms & Conditions

• Salary - Dependent on experience
• Hours – 37 per week
• Holidays – 25 days per annum plus statutory holidays (pro rated)
• Pension – Contributory
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Cycle to Work scheme
• Retailer discounts
• Location: WARRINGTON

IN ORDER TO PASS OUR STRINGENT SECURITY VETTING YOU MUST HAVE RESIDED IN THE UK FOR THE PREVIOUS 5 YEARS FROM THE DATE OF YOUR APPLICATION. WE CANNOT CONSIDER APPLICANTS THAT HAVE NOT LIVED IN THE UK FOR THE PREVIOUS 5 YEARS AND YOUR APPLICATION WILL BE AUTOMATICALLY REJECTED.

KFS is committed to eliminating discrimination and encouraging diversity amongst our workforce. Our aim is that our workforce will be truly representative of all sections of society and each employee feels respected and able to give of their best. One of our goals is to work within an environment free from discrimination, harassment and prejudice. We aim to embed this in all of our recruitment and selection policies, procedures and practices.

The closing date for this position is 10 MAY 2024 at 17:30 but we reserve the right to end the vacancy earlier if we find enough suitable applicants to progress to the next stage.