Biomedical Healthcare Scientist Specialist - Cambridge

UK Health Security Agency is an executive agency of the Department of Health. They are a trusted source of advice to the government, the NHS, parliament, industry and to the public. UKHSA provides strategic leadership and vision for protecting and improving the nation’s health. Its ambition is to lead nationally, and enable locally, a transformation in the health expectations of all people in England, regardless of where they live and the circumstance of their birth. It will achieve this through the application of research, knowledge and skills.

The Microbiology laboratory at Cambridge current 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. Addenbrooke’s is closely associated with leading educational providers including the University of Cambridge and is a major centre for biomedical research and education.

To work 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.

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 supervise the HCSSW(s) and less experienced BMS staff in the area of responsibility and to assist in the day-to-day supervision of all other HCSSWs, trainee BMS(s) and inexperienced BMS(s) in the department.

• 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 UKHSA Regional Laboratories.

• 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 be able to interpret and report on laboratory tests, and to understand and be able to analyse the results, being aware of anomalies or occasions where unusual results may have an immediate impact on patient care.

• To assist in the day-to-day supervision and training of all other less qualified staff in other sections of the department.

• 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.

• BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science degree or equivalent academic achievement ratified by the IBMS.
• State registration with Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).
• Evidence of post-registration speciality training, in accordance with IBMS guidelines or equivalent.
• Have extensive working knowledge of laboratory areas, including both practical and theoretical knowledge of the various methods employed.
• Public sector experience is desirable but not essential.