Biomedical Scientist – Specialist

The Microbiology laboratory at Cambridge currently provides services to Addenbrooke’s, Royal Papworth, and the E&N Herts Hospitals, the surrounding district, and other NHS Laboratories. It has active research and epidemiological interests. The laboratory undergoes assessment against UKAS ISO 15189 standards and has strong teaching interests. Set on the outskirts of the university city of Cambridge, Addenbrooke’s Hospital is one of the top hospitals in the UK and a thriving NHS Foundation Trust. Addenbrooke’s is closely associated with leading educational providers including the University of Cambridge and is a major centre for biomedical research and education.

Following appropriate training and orientation, and in rotation with other BMS staff, to work as the sole BMS in extended hours and weekends, undertaking urgent or other high priority work.

To be responsible for the efficient day-to-day running of an area in a section of the laboratory, to be able to rotate through all the different sections in the laboratory and to supervise and train inexperienced BMSs, trainee BMSs or HCSSWs.

The post holder would be expected to assist in any UKHSA co-ordinated response or activity of a national/international nature, eg. a Bioterrorism incident or a major disease outbreak, eg. SARS., H5N1 influenza etc.

Location

This is a lab-based role located at Addenbrooke’s Hospital, Cambridge, CB2 0QQ.

*Please be aware that this role can only be worked from within the UK and not overseas. Relocation expenses are not available.*

Working Pattern – Full Time, Part Time, Job Share, Flexible Working

As the Biomedical Scientist – Specialist your main responsibilities will include:

• Assisting in the day-to-day supervision and training of all other less qualified staff in other sections of the department.
• Working as part of the laboratory team, providing a high level of microbiological analysis in order to provide patients with the highest level of diagnosis and treatment.
• Using the appropriate testing, in a timely manner, to assist the Consultant Microbiologists, and thus ensure the correct clinical diagnosis.
• To process the specimens received and to undertake the related tasks in the various sections of the laboratory, leading to the reporting and interpretation of results in accordance with agreed policies and standard operating procedures (SOPs), including specialist reference tests as required of PHE Regional Laboratories
• To be responsible for maintenance of consumables and equipment in immediate area of work. Also, to use and maintain automated equipment following manufacturer`s guidelines and training.
• Based upon sound knowledge and experience, to designate, on receipt, the range of tests to be performed on various samples. This involves making judgments about which automated platform to use, whether confirmation is necessary by other methods etc. and requires an understanding of both disease and the manner in which the laboratory addresses the diagnostic process.
• Using microbiological techniques, to work competently in all sections of the Laboratory, including Bacteriology, Containment Level 3, Serology, Chlamydia and Molecular Diagnostics.
• To adhere to Laboratory bench SOPs and the Laboratory policies and procedures and to work autonomously within the guidelines provided. Also to assist the Quality Manager and other Senior Staff in the preparation and ongoing review of SOPs.
• To plan and organise the work of the allocated area in the laboratory.
• To maintain a high standard of professional competence in the performance of all tests and investigations carried out in the Laboratory.
• To ensure important or unusual results are drawn to the attention of senior staff and/or medical staff, and to report complaints and anomalies as soon as possible.
• To deputise for senior staff as required.
• To ensure a sound knowledge of the laboratory IT system, to look up and enter results, book in patient data, request tests and other similar tasks.
• To be responsible for equipment and automated processors in the area of responsibility, identifying any problems. To act as first-line ‘trouble-shooter’ when and where appropriate, and to bring problems to the attention of senior staff.
• To monitor quality control results and bring any anomalies to the attention of Senior BMS staff as soon as is practicable.
• Where appropriate, to assist or lead in research and audit projects.
• To assist in the production and dissemination of laboratory reports, data and statistics, and to maintain relevant records appropriately.

The duties/responsibilities listed above describe the post as it is at present and is not intended to be exhaustive. The Job holder is expected to accept reasonable alterations and additional tasks of a similar level that may be necessary.

Essential

• BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science degree or equivalent academic achievement ratified by the IBMS
• GCSE or equivalent qualifications at C or above in English and Maths
• State registration with Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC)
• Evidence of continuing professional development (CPD) in accordance with HCPC guidelines
• Have extensive working knowledge of laboratory areas, including both practical and theoretical knowledge of the various methods employed.
• Demonstrate a sound knowledge and application of quality systems, with particular reference to UKAS standards
• Commitment to and focused on quality, promotes high standards in all they do
• Clear communicator with excellent writing, report writing and presentation skills

Desirable

• Previous experience in project management and planning
• Undertaking further study – e.g. MSc or professional qualification
• To continue the learning process through academic or practical experience
• Development of special interest and expertise in one or more areas of the laboratory, for example audit, quality, R&D, safety, training, molecular diagnostics, parasitology
• Basic knowledge of project principles
• Previously worked in similar position within the public sector
• ECDL
• A good understanding of the health and social care environment and roles and responsibilities within it

• Learning and development tailored to your role
• An environment with flexible working options
• A culture encouraging inclusion and diversity
• A Civil Service pension with an average employer contribution of 27%

Job contact :

Name :
Jon Payne
Email :
ukhsa.recruitment@reed.com

Recruitment team :

Email :
ukhsa.recruitment@reed.com