Job Title: Forensic Scientist

Salary: The starting salary is £43,227, which includes allowances totalling £2,841.

The salary is broken down as £40,386 basic salary, which will increase annually until you reach the top of the scale £45,615. Plus, a location allowance of £1,841 and a non-pensionable allowance of £1,000.

Location: Lambeth/Central London

Contract: Fixed Term – 24 Months

Forensic Science has revolutionised policing and continues to evolve. Today, it plays a critical role in both proactively preventing crime and crime investigations. As a Forensic Scientist, you will be part of the Secure DNA Operations team (SDOT) within Biometrics, Forensic Services.

As a Forensic Scientist, you will report DNA matches in line with best practice. This means overseeing and updating databases, records and searching profiles using bespoke software. It could also mean bringing your experience to those conducting item examination, DNA analysis and interpretation of results in an ISO17025 accredited laboratory. You will liaise with international partners and UK law enforcement to help identify those involved in cross-border crime.

Though we will provide training, you must bring enthusiasm, experience, and an excellent grasp of forensic science. We are looking for a degree in a relevant science subject and either have worked as a reporting scientist or a minimum of 3 years in a forensic laboratory as an examiner or analyst.

Join us and play your part in a network that protects London and helps bring offenders to justice in the UK and beyond.

Key Responsibilities

• As a Forensic Scientist, you will work act as a source of expert forensic guidance and provide scientific and technical support to a number of areas:
• DNA analysis and/or interpretation and reporting of DNA results, which may include statistical evaluation and complex results.
• DNA Database use, maintenance, and reporting
• Writing of reports and statements.
• Line management of DNA Analysts and training/mentoring/coaching duties.
• Active participation in projects, collaborating with colleagues and reporting to the relevant Senior Forensic Scientist.
• Will deputise for Senior Forensic Scientists when required.

Vetting

This post requires access to the most sensitive intelligence material on a daily basis. Applicants must hold or be prepared to undergo National Security Vetting (NSV) Security Check (enhanced) (SC(e)) level before taking up the post; with a willingness to undergo Developed Vetting (DV) once in post, if required.

Additionally, this material is of particular sensitivity to the UK and its distribution must be restricted to UK nationals. In approved circumstances dual nationals (of which one element is British) may also be granted access. However, in the event that potential conflicts of interest cannot be managed the post holder will not be able to see the intelligence material and will not be able to perform their duties. For the purpose of safeguarding national security and in line with Cabinet Office Policy, supported by Section 82(2) to (4) of the Police Reform Act (2002), applicants who do not hold or acquire Security Check (enhanced) (SC(e)) OR Developed Vetting (DV) clearance and meet the nationality requirements cannot be offered the post.

How to apply

Click the apply now button below and start your career at the Met. Applications will be via a detailed CV, Personal Statement, and online application form. Your personal statement should outline why you are interested in the role and how your skills and experience demonstrate your suitability for the role. (NB. Please do not attach 2 copies of your CV).

Your application will be assessed against the following CVF competencies:

We deliver support and inspire – Level 2

We analyse critically – Level 2

Applicants successful at the paper-sift stage will be invited to an interview which will include a short assessment (the topic will be provided to candidates at the interview). The interview will be assessed against the following CVF competencies, and you will also be asked a number of technical questions relating to forensic science and the role.

We are emotionally aware – Level 2

We take ownership – Level 2

We are collaborative – Level 2

We are innovative and open-minded – Level 2

Completed applications must be submitted by 23:55 on the 5th of November 2024.

Essential for the Role

• Must hold a degree in a relevant science subject.
• Required to provide evidence of relevant previous experience/competencies.
• Must have previously worked in a relevant discipline as a reporting forensic scientist; or as a DNA analyst or examiner, in a forensic laboratory, for a minimum of three years.
• Must have excellent knowledge of forensic science and data analysis, including DNA profiling / future technologies.
• Good understanding of the issues around retrieval, continuity, storage, and retention of exhibits for examination of biological material and DNA analysis.
• Understand data protection and information security.
• Understand the ethics around the uses of DNA analysis.
• Will be expected to develop and maintain quality management systems and processes within SDOT to ensure continued ISO accreditation across all areas of the business.
• Must provide a DNA sample and fingerprints for inclusion on the Staff Elimination databases.
• Must work within Forensic Services Quality Management System
• Must indicate agreement to abide by Forensic Regulator’s Code of Practice and Conduct.
• Must be willing to support the 24/7 service provided by Secure Operations and participate in the on-call out of hours provision for Secure Operations, where required. The on-call provision operates on a rota system and should not be more frequent than an average of one week in every six weeks.
• A Forensic Scientist will be expected to support the Consultant and Senior Forensic Scientists to develop systems, procedures and staff within their unit and drive the unit towards excellence within the field of evidence recovery and interpretation, and DNA analysis and interpretation.
• They will be expected to keep up to date with developments within the field of forensic science especially in their areas of expertise with a view to constant development and improvement of forensic services.
• Likely to have involvement in research projects and development of proposals within the unit, utilising resources within the unit and/or partner organisations. Some previous experience of research or project work would be beneficial.
• Forensic Scientists will make decisions that will affect overall forensic spend.
• Being ultimately accountable to the Criminal Justice System, they must demonstrate independence, impartiality and conviction in the decisions made. Any errors may result in a negative impact on the criminal justice process and ultimately the reputation of Forensic Services.
• On occasion you may be asked to travel domestically and overseas to support business needs.
• Must participate in regular laboratory cleaning to maintain a DNA clean environment.
• Will be required to undertake internal Emergency Life Saving (ELS) training and maintain competency.

Desirable

• STR interpretation software package knowledge is desirable.
• Desirable to hold a full DVLA driving licence – may be required to undertake a MPS driving test.