Band 4 Healthcare Science Assistant Birmingham, England
Job description
Job summary
An exciting opportunity has arisen in the Molecular Pathology Diagnostic Service (MPDS) at University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust for a suitably qualified and experienced Healthcare Scientist Associate Practitioner to join our team in a permanent role. MPDS is one of the largest solid tumour genetic-profiling centre's in Europe, processing around 24,000 samples a year. The service provides a range of molecular pathology tests including protein expression, gene mutation, methylation and amplification, and chromosome translocation. The service also provides a circulating tumour DNA service for EGFR mutation analysis. Services are provided for wide range of regional and supra-regional Trusts, being a referral centre, and as such there will be an opportunity to also participate in research and development.
The department has huge expertise in various technologies including real time PCR, pyrosequencing, FISH, immunohistochemistry and next generation sequencing (NGS). The post holder will be joining a dedicated team including scientists, technicians, and molecular pathologists. The Directorate has undergone exciting changes in recent years with the on-going alignment of processes and equipment across the four hospital sites. The laboratories are UKAS accredited to ISO 15189 standards and IBMS accredited for training. We support Continuous Professional Development. Encouragement is given to attend and participate in both internal and external lectures / seminars.
Main duties, tasks & skills required
We are seeking a highly motivated individual, with good range of laboratory skills keen to contribute to the continued success of the service along with significant laboratory experience. Whilst previous experience of working with molecular techniques is desirable candidates with Histology laboratory experience are encouraged to apply. Please provide details within your supporting evidence of how previous laboratory evidence will fit in with this request.
The successful candidate will be involved in supporting the Biomedical and Clinical Scientists and Genetic Technologists working in MPDS for internal users within the Trust along with external users at regional, national and international level and will have excellent organisational and communication skills and ability to use their initiative. Specific duties will include responsibility for initial IQC management and data handling / processing in multiple areas of processing.
About us
We are recognised as one of the leading NHS Foundation Trusts in the UK. Our vision is to Build Healthier Lives, and we recognise that we need incredible staff to do this.
Our commitment to our staff is to create the best place for them to work, and we are dedicated to:
Investing in the health and wellbeing of our staff, including a commitment of offering flexible working where we can;
Offer our staff a wide variety of training and development opportunities, to support their personal and career development objectives.
UHB is committed to ensuring that our staff are treated fairly and feel that they belong, by creating a kind and inclusive environment. This is about equity of opportunity; removing all barriers, including discrimination and ensuring each individual member of staff reach their true potential, achieve their ambitions and thrive in their work. This is more than words. We are taking action. Our commitment to an inclusive culture is embedded at all levels of the organisation where every voice is heard, driven by our diverse and active staff networks, and at Board level by the Fairness Taskforce led by our CEO. We nurture a culture which empowers staff to challenge discriminatory behaviours and to enable people to bring their 'whole self' to a kinder, more connected and bold place to work.
Job description
*Please Note : For a specific detailed job description for this vacancy, please see attached Job Description*
Person specification
Qualifications
Essential
Educated to degree level in Genetics, Biomedical Sciences, or related subjects.
Or equivalent experience
Experience
Essential
Significant experience within a relevant laboratory environment.
Awareness of National Health Service.
Awareness of Health and Safety issues.
