Senior Diagnostic Analyst (SADKS) Inverness, Scotland Senior Diagnostic Analyst (SADKS) Inverness, Scotland

Job Summary: PHARMAQ Analytiq Ltd is seeking a highly skilled and experienced individual to take on the role of Senior Diagnostic Analyst. This position will involve leading our bacteriology diagnostic work whileoverseeing Environmental, Health, Safety and Quality (EHSQ) within our diagnostic department. The successful candidate will ensure the diagnostic laboratories operate safely and complies with all regulatory requirements while delivering accurate and reliable diagnostic results. Time will also be spent assisting with the delivery of our routine diagnostic caseload, principally in our busy qPCR laboratory., + Oversee the daily operations of the microbiology laboratory, including processing and analysis of samples for bacterial pathogens and providing high-quality bacteriology reports for fish samples submitted to our diagnostic departments via our online portal iWISE. + Ensure the accurate identification, characterization, and documentation of fish pathogens. This will include using both conventional bacteriology and molecular tools. + Extraction and archiving gDNA for molecular identification and sequencing of bacterial pathogens from fish samples. + Maintain laboratory equipment, oversee maintenance schedules, and calibrate equipment. + Ensure the availability of necessary reagents and materials and preparation of bacteriology media for both laboratory and customers use. + Maintain the bacterial cultures stocks and update bacterial strains biobank. + Train and mentor laboratory staff, trainee students and visitors, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement. 2. Environmental, Health, Safety (EHS) Management: + Develop, implement, and monitor comprehensive EHS policies and procedures to ensure laboratory safety and regulatory compliance. + Conduct regular EHS audits, risk assessments, and safety inspections, identifying and mitigating potential hazards. + Ensure compliance with relevant regulatory standards, including GLP, and EHS regulations, and prepare for external audits with head of diagnostic department. + Oversee waste management, including the safe disposal of biohazardous materials, and ensure proper environmental practices. + Provide training and support to all staff on EHS protocols, emergency procedures, and best laboratory practices. + Risk Management: Facilitate the review and update of EHS and quality risk assessments, keeping the team informed of potential hazards and mitigation strategies. 3. Quality Control Management: + Oversee the daily operations of the quality management system (VIS), ensuring its continual improvement and alignment with evolving requirements and company activities. + Implement and manage quality control measures for all diagnostic procedures, ensuring accuracy, reproducibility, and reliability of results. + Implement and coordinate the seamless integration of Quality Management System (QMS) requirements into daily laboratory operations. + Actively participate in the implementation and enforcement of environmental, health, safety, and quality (EHSQ) protocols within the laboratory. + Develop, review and maintain SOPs and other documentation for all laboratory processes. + Review and analyse quality control data, identify trends or deviations, and implement corrective actions where necessary. + Prepare detailed reports and documentation for internal quality assurance processes and external regulatory bodies. + ISO 9001:2015 lead: Drive the maintenance of the company's ISO 9001:2015 certification through meticulous record-keeping and adherence to quality standards. + Act as the central contact for all EHSQ concerns, collaborating with the Head of Diagnostics to address environmental, health, safety, and quality issues effectively. + Coordinate and implement activities to ensure the business adheres to all applicable legal regulations and industry best practices in the areas of quality. + Deliver training and coaching sessions on quality topics as required, empowering colleagues with the necessary knowledge and skills. + Monitor and report company Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) related to quality to the management team. + Support the HoD and Operation director in the investigation of quality incidents, ensuring proper documentation and timely reporting to relevant authorities. 4. Staff support and collaboration. o Support other diagnostic laboratory staff in their day-to-day tasks including PCR and histopathology teams. o Communicate diagnostic results, EHSQ updates, and laboratory developments to internal and external stakeholders.

• MSc in Microbiology, Veterinary Science, Aquatic Health, or a related field. A BSc holder with a significant laboratory experience will be also considered.
• At least 2-3 years of experience in a microbiology laboratory, preferably with a focus on fish health or aquaculture.
• Demonstrable capability in EHSQ management, including the development and implementation of safety and compliance protocols.
• Strong knowledge of bacteriological techniques, including culture methods, molecular diagnostics (e.g., PCR), and antimicrobial susceptibility testing.
• In-depth understanding of relevant regulatory standards (e.g., GLP, EHSQ) and experience in preparing and managing audits.
• Excellent leadership, organizational, and communication skills.
• Proficiency in using laboratory information management systems (LIMS) and data analysis tools.
• Excellent communication skills.
• High level of English language.
Desirable:
• PhD in relevant speciality is an assist.
• Previous experience in histopathology laboratory.
• Certification in EHS or quality management systems (e.g., NEBOSH, ISO 9001, ISO 14001).
Work Hours: Full time, 37hr/week.

About the hiring company: PHARMAQ Analytiq Ltd, part of Zoetis, is at the forefront of providing innovative diagnostic solutions to the aquaculture industry. Based in Inverness, our facility is dedicated to advancing the health and welfare of farmed fish through high-quality molecular, histopathology and microbiology diagnostic services. We are committed to excellence in safety, compliance, and environmental stewardship.


• Competitive salary and benefits package, including pension, healthcare, dental care, and other attractive offerings (details available upon request).
• Opportunities for professional growth and career development.
• A collaborative and dynamic work environment.
• 25 days of annual leave.