medical technologist London, England
Job description
We invite applications from individuals educated to at least HND or NVQ level 4 in Biological Science, with a strong interest in genetics, to work as a genetic technologist. This role will mainly involve laboratory wet-work using molecular genetic laboratory techniques including (but not limited to) library preparation for Next Generation sequencing as well as Sanger sequencing, MLPA and ddPCR. The role will also include sample reception, DNA and RNA extraction, basic laboratory housekeeping tasks, and administration tasks to provide support to our diagnostic work. There will also be an opportunity to prepare simple diagnostic reports and gain some experience in variant assessment. Some practical relevant laboratory experience is essential; however, full competence-based training will be provided. We are very much committed to continuous development and provide opportunities for participation in service research and development, training courses and journal clubs/seminars.
Applicants should have good interpersonal and computing skills, be capable of working under pressure to tight deadlines, and be able to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team. They should have good organisational skills, be able to work methodically with great attention to detail and have a strong interest in driving and improving the quality of diagnostic services. Applicants will be expected to take part in various quality management tasks, including audit.
- To be responsible to Senior Genetic Technologists and Clinical Scientists.
- To perform the role following documented laboratory
- To collaborate with all other members of staff
- To deal with telephone enquiries
- To maintain accurate section records
- To participate in an annual appraisal
- To participate in clinical audit projects
- To be involved in the evaluation of new/replacement equipment
- To follow procedures documented in the laboratory’s written SOPs
- To be involved in training new members of technical staff and students
- To work with the team to ensure achievement and adherence to the standards required of ISO15189:2012 accreditation
- To receive and book-in a range of pathological specimens
- Extraction of DNA and RNA from a range of sample types
- Measuring of DNA and RNA concentration to high accuracy
- PCR and Sanger sequencing
- Preparation of DNA libraries for Next-Generation sequencing
- MLPA and ddPCR for copy number analysis
- Perform a range of molecular techniques both manually and using automated technology
- To interpret simple abnormal results and to prepare reports
- To prepare and measure out reagents and media
- To inform of any incidents and errors
- To participate in out of hours cover as required
- To follow a technical training programme for this grade
- To attend any training days or courses considered appropriate to the position
The Clinical Genetics and Genomics Laboratory in the Royal Brompton has generated deep expertise in cardiovascular (CV) and respiratory genetics through a large programme of work over the last 7 years and has established infrastructure, expertise and variant repositories on site. The CGGL has developed sophisticated bioinformatic tools and pipelines for the analysis and reporting of different types of sequence data and is actively involved in research to develop new technologies. The diagnostic service collaborates closely with the National Heart and Lung Institute (NHLI), Imperial College London.
- To undertake the technical and analytical duties of a Genetic Technologist to support the scientific teams in the provision of an effective and high-quality genetics diagnostic service to patients and referring clinicians. The main duties are to undertake molecular genetic technique including (but not limited to) automated and manual DNA and RNA extraction from a range of sample types, basic PCR-based techniques, Sanger Sequencing, Next Generation Sequencing Library Preparation, MLPA and ddPCR.
- To maintain a high level of accuracy and reliability in defined routine, preparative, processing, analytical and associated procedures following documented laboratory protocols.
- Specific duties will depend on the area in which the Technologist is working. Genetic Technologists rotate between different areas.
- All duties are undertaken under the supervision of Senior Genetic Technologists/Clinical Scientists following standard protocols, with advice available from peers.
- To collaborate with other members of the laboratory and department in all matters necessary to achieve the maximum efficiency of the service.
