Senior Aerosol Scientist

The Radiation, Chemical, Climate and Environmental Hazards Directorate (RCCE) provides evidence and advice to protect health from Radiation, Chemical, Climate and Environmental Hazards. To support evidence-anchored advice for Health Security, RCCE undertakes research work with various university partners and other organisations including within Health Protection Research Units (HPRUs) supported by the National Institutes of Health Research (NIHR).

The Toxicology Department provides Public Health advice to other parts of RCCE, the Department of Health and Social Care and other government departments and agencies, Local Authorities and other stakeholders including members of the public on the risks to health from environmental hazards (chemicals, particles and bioaerosols). The Toxicology Department undertakes research that underpins chemical regulation and policy development. All of the research underpins the UKHSA role in public health protection from environmental hazards.

Main duties of the job

The Experimental Toxicology programme within the Toxicology Department undertakes experimental activities using in vitro and in vivo models to investigate the impacts of exposures to chemicals and other environmental pollutants (e.g. nanoparticles, air pollutants, bioaerosols, microplastics) on human health, including to those with pre-existing conditions (e.g. asthma). The programme also undertakes research to develop and validate test methods for hazard characterisation and assessment of chemicals to support regulatory objectives for chemicals, with a focus on new approach methodologies (NAMs).

The post is a predominantly laboratory based scientific research role. Based within the Experimental Toxicology Programme of the Toxicology Department at RCCE on the Harwell Science and Innovation Campus, Didcot, the post will work in health effects from chemical and biological exposures primarily from the air (inhalation route). The post holder will be expected to provide highly specialized scientific services and undertake complex research studies in support of the work of the Experimental Toxicology Programme.

We pride ourselves as being an employer of choice, where Everyone Matters promoting equality of opportunity to actively encourage applications from everyone, including groups currently underrepresented in our workforce.

UKHSA ethos is to be an inclusive organisation for all our staff and stakeholders. To create, nurture and sustain an inclusive culture, where differences drive innovative solutions to meet the needs of our workforce and wider communities. We do this through celebrating and protecting differences by removing barriers and promoting equity and equality of opportunity for all.