Location
Core HQ, London (Canary Wharf) - Hybrid working model with a minimum of 60% on-site attendance (approximately 3 days per week pro rata).

Hours
Full Time - standard Civil Service working hours with flexible working options available.

Salary
£46,310 - £52,113 per year, with pay progression through annual awards and potential flexibility for exceptional candidates.

About the Role
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is dedicated to preventing, preparing for, and responding to infectious diseases and environmental hazards to protect public health and save lives. The legal team, part of the Chief Operating Officer Group, plays a vital role in supporting UKHSA’s mission by providing strategic, high-quality legal advice across a broad range of activities.

This newly qualified solicitor role offers an excellent opportunity to develop as an in-house lawyer within a dynamic and impactful environment. You will work across diverse legal areas including commercial and research agreements, information governance, public law issues such as Freedom of Information requests, coroner’s inquests, and public inquiries. The role focuses on life sciences, information law, and public health law, advising on scientific research collaborations, data sharing, regulatory frameworks, and vaccine sector industry engagement.

You will be supported by experienced colleagues and line managed by a Senior Legal Counsel, encouraged to take ownership of your work while contributing to a collaborative team environment. This role also involves supporting outbreak management activities and working flexibly across different legal disciplines.

Experience
Newly qualified solicitor with a current practising certificate and admission to the roll of solicitors in England and Wales. Demonstrable interest and experience in life sciences (including intellectual property, commercial contracts, and regulatory requirements), information law (including data protection and Freedom of Information), and public health law. Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage a varied caseload effectively. Experience of working in an in-house legal team and understanding of government or public sector contexts is desirable.

About you
Sound legal judgement and analytical ability with confidence to provide clear, balanced, and risk-based advice. Solutions-focused and commercially minded with strategic thinking and agility. Strong written and verbal communication skills, able to communicate clearly and sensitively with stakeholders unfamiliar with legal processes. Collaborative team player with good communication and stakeholder management skills.

Qualifications
Admission as a solicitor in England and Wales with a current practising certificate regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority. No additional qualifications required but a positive attitude and willingness to develop specialist expertise in life sciences, information law, and public health law are essential.