Job Description

Job Title: Forensic Scientist

Salary: The starting salary is \xc2\xa343,227, which includes allowances totalling \xc2\xa32,841.

The salary is broken down as \xc2\xa340,386 basic salary, which will increase annually until you reach the top of the scale - \xc2\xa345,615. Plus a location allowance of \xc2\xa31,841 and a non-pensionable allowance of \xc2\xa31,000.

Location: Lambeth/Central London

Contract - Fixed Term - 36 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

Please click on the below link to view an online candidate information pack that will you give you an insight into the Met, the competency framework we use which shapes our daily work behaviours, the application process and a host of other information, that will help inform and support your application:

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).

Completed applications must be submitted by 6th October 2023.

Essential For The Role

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 extensive knowledge of forensic science and data analysis, including DNA profiling / Rapid DNA / Next Generation Sequencing.
• Good understanding of the issues around retrieval, continuity, storage and retention of exhibits for examination of biological material and DNA analysis.
• Have an understanding of data protection and information security.
• Have an understanding of 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.
• May require vetting to DV level. A STRAP induction, where applicable, will be required.
• 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.

Additional Information

The application review process will comprise a personal statement (500 words max), application form and a detailed CV (2 pages max). Candidates successful at paper-sift will be invited to attend an interview.

Your personal statement should detail why you are interested in joining the team and what your skills and experience can bring to the role .

Your application will be assessed against the following CVF competencies:

We take ownership - Level 2

We are collaborative - 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 deliver support and inspire - Level 2

We analyse critically - Level 2

We are innovative and open-minded - Level 2

Reports To

Senior Forensic Scientist

Additional Information

The following competencies will be tested against during sift:

• We take ownership at level 2

• We are collaborative at level 2

Disability Confident Statement

The Met is committed to being an inclusive employer with a diverse and representative workforce at all levels. We encourage applications from people from the widest possible range of backgrounds, cultures and experiences. We particularly welcome applications from ethnic minority groups and females.

As a Disability Confident employer, the Met has committed to making disability equality part of our everyday practice. We ensure that people with disabilities and those with long term health conditions have the opportunities to fulfil their potential and realise their aspirations. If you consider yourself to have access, workplace or reasonable adjustment requirements that need to be accommodated, we ask that you include this information within your application form. All matters will be treated in strict confidence and will not affect any recruitment decisions.

Metropolitan Police