Biomedical Scientists are responsible for the diagnosis of infection and disease processes by the application of microbiological, biological and serological technology, utilising the most up to date scientific methods in conjunction with traditional methods of culture, microscopy and antigen/antibody–complex diagnostics. Diagnostic work includes examination of respiratory samples (including sputum), cerebrospinal fluid, pleural fluid, urine, blood/serum, faeces, pus and other body fluids and tissues. Animal samples may also be examined.

The post holder will be a State Registered Biomedical Scientist whose role is to help deliver a reference and medical laboratory service to achieve the objectives of efficient and effective patient care and resource management for the users of this specialist reference laboratory. This includes working exclusively with Mycobacteria spp., including those in Hazard Group 3, in a containment level 3 facilities. The post–holder will contribute to the team by performing a range of the tests offered by the laboratory.

The post holder will also act as the Training and Development Officer for the laboratory and ensure that the laboratory complies with all relevant training and competency schemes and legislation. They will play a lead role in the implementation and upkeep of the laboratory's training schemes.

The post holder will also act as the Deputy Laboratory Manager in the absence of or by delegation by the NMRS–S laboratory manager. All band 7 NMRS–S staff job descriptions will contain the responsibility of performing the Deputy Laboratory Manager role as assigned on a rotational basis.

Location

This is a lab–based role located at the National Mycobacterium Reference Service– South (NMRS–S), Colindale, NW9 5EQ.

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

Responsibilities section:

The job holder will be required to carry out the following responsibilities, activities and duties:

• To follow agreed protocols and policies in accordance with the UKHSA policies and procedures.
• Perform manual, semi–automated and fully automated laboratory investigations, then interpret and record test results according to given Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), including performing genotypic (molecular) tests, which are complex technical procedures.
• Supervise and check work of all non–state registered staff when they perform manual, semi–automated and fully automated laboratory investigations, according to given SOPs, including performing genotypic (molecular) tests, which are complex technical procedures.
• This supervision will extend to persons seconded to the NMRS–South for periods of technical training.
• To ensure that the laboratory complies with relevant training standards, governance and statutory requirements
• Prepare the laboratory training ready for inspections by UKAS and other third party assessors and progress with improvement actions and non–conformances arising from these inspections relating to training.
• Take every opportunity to suggest training improvements. Training for clinical and medical staff will be determined by the NMRS–S clinical lead
• As delegated by or in the absence of the NMRS–S Laboratory Manager, the post holder will also act as the Deputy Laboratory Manager. All band 7 NMRS–S staff job descriptions will contain the responsibility of performing the Deputy Laboratory Manager role as assigned on a rotational basis.

In collaboration with the Laboratory Safety Officer and complying with safety policies and procedures to:

• Ensure that health, safety and welfare is an afforded priority over other issues and to demonstrate a commitment to health, safety and welfare regarding self, staff and visitors
• Work in a safe manner
• Report all accidents and incidents or near misses, dangerous situations or shortcomings in health and safety training instructions
• Participate in the internal and external safety audits, as required.
• To assist the Laboratory Manager and Director in ensuring that appropriate risk management controls are implemented and maintained with the area of responsibility, and that new risks are identified and raised as appropriate.

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.

For the full list of duties and responsibilities, please see the full job description.

Essential Criteria:

It is important through your application and Statement of Suitability of up to 1250 words that you give evidence and examples of proven experience of each of the following criteria:

Essential

• Degree or equivalent qualification that is acceptable to the HCPC
• A post graduate degree in a relevant science or Fellowship of the Institute of Biomedical Sciences
• HCPC registration
• Evidence of managerial training/advanced technical expertise
• Minimum of 3 years post HPC registration
• Training and supervising a team
• Full conversant of working in a regulated environment with quality systems and knowledge of UKAS
• Fully conversant with CPA / ISO 15189 Quality standards
• Comprehensive Microbiology Techniques
• Command of written and spoken English
• Ability to authorise results for clinical use
• Evidence of using technical experience to assess new and existing systems and processes to innovate and initiate change in laboratory practice

Desirable

• Understanding of the public sector
• Demonstrated experience in a Healthcare environment

For more information please click apply now below.