Legal Counsel - UK Biobank

Who we are - UK Biobank is the world's most leading resource for health research and is making a major contribution to the advancement of the study of disease and modern medicine. UK Biobank has been running for 20 years, has led to more than 7,000 peer-reviewed scientific studies and has more than 50,000 registered researchers from over 90 countries around the world. UK Biobank has extensive biomedical samples on its 500,000 volunteer participants. Its database, which includes phenotypic data, health linkage records, heart and brain scans, genetic and assay data is globally accessible to approved researchers who are undertaking health-related research that is in the public interest. UK Biobank is a company limited by guarantee and is a registered charity in England and Scotland. It was established by the Medical Research Council and Wellcome in 2003, with additional support from other government and charity funders of health research and from a number of international philanthropic foundations. The organisation has over 250 dedicated members of staff, based in multiple locations across the UK. What we are looking for? Due to the rapid expansion of the organisation (facilitated by increased funding) BCL Legal are assisting UK Biobank with their search for at least two additional lawyers to join the existing team. They are seeking lawyers between 2 and 8 years PQE, ideally who have experience of working in-house. All lawyers within the team undertake a wide variety of work, including data protection, commercial contracts, public procurement, charity law and intellectual property. These roles are true commercial in-house roles, where the legal team is expected to be integrally involved in not only the legal implementation of projects but also in their overall design and underlying strategic approach. The ability to work independently, handle multiple projects (each with their own timeline) is essential - as part of collaborative multi-disciplinary teams - as is the ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing. A scientific or technical background is helpful but not vital, however, curiosity and willingness to learn about the science which underpins UK Biobank is most important. The roles are based in UK Biobank's Head Office which is currently in Cheadle, Stockport and moving to Manchester Science Park in 2026. Travel is expected to UK Biobank's scientific base - at the Nuffield Department of Public Health at Oxford University - and hybrid working is available with the team generally spending at least half their time in the office. UK Biobank is a strong supporter of equality and diversity, and we actively encourage expressions of interest from people with diverse backgrounds. If you would like to discuss these opportunities please contact Alison McKee (alisonmckee@bcllegal.com) for further information. Any third party applications will be forwarded to BCL Legal.