Human Biological Samples (HBS) are essential for advancing medical research, particularly in developing and implementing new treatments and diagnostics. Due to their ethical sensitivity, HBS form the cornerstone of every clinical trial.
The Biobank Histopathology Scientist will assume a pivotal role in supporting the UK Biobank Lead by establishing capabilities for sectioning, staining, and scanning HBS. Collaboration with internal customers to ensure adherence to global standards and regulations is key to this position.
Furthermore, the role involves identifying opportunities for IT improvements and providing mentorship on the availability and sources of HBS. Proficiency in routine Histopathology techniques and a solid understanding of HBS principles are indispensable for this role.
In this role you will be accountable for maintaining the HBS inventory in adherence to Global Standard, Good Clinical Practice (GCP), and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). Emphasis is placed on accurate sample handling, encompassing receipt, logging, storage, tracking, processing, dispatch, return, and disposal. Utilising niche IT systems and databases, the role ensures the sample library's compliance, with daily communication with HBS users and customers as an integral responsibility.
Responsibilities will include:
1. Support the daily run of all aspects of histology capability.
2. Supply to laboratory maintenance of histology and microtomy areas, relevant SOPs, equipment maintenance, COSHH guidelines and risk assessments. In addition, the role holder will understand SHE procedures and other regulations applicable to the subject area.
3. When applicable, provide histological technical support to the organisation, including Microtomy, cryo sectioning, routine histological staining, immunohistochemistry staining, slide scanning and digital image analysis.
4. To support the implementation and continued maintenance of archiving of all study-based materials, including raw data, images, FFPE blocks and slides. Ensure that all electronic records are continually maintained and available for audit.
5. Maintains an up-to-date knowledge of current sample management and analysis techniques and regulations to support histology/microtomy capability.
6. Process shipments/requests for HBS to users.
7. Perform all work following global standards, SOPs, GCP and legal requirements – Human Tissue Authority (HTA)
8. Communication with science partners to ensure compliance with global HBS standards and legal requirements (HTA).
9. Supervise all ongoing projects using niche informatics systems and databases so that there is a common understanding of status at all times.
10. Responding to HBS users' queries.
11. Act upon day-to-day issues and partner with Biobank groups globally and internal and external customers to drive continuous improvement.
12. Knowledge of the transportation of HBS internally and contact with sample dispatch and external couriers.
13. Ensure that specialist knowledge is updated to develop greater independence in delivering work.
14. To ensure the upkeep of laboratory equipment and cleaning records.
15. To assist in the input and tracking of HBS onto local LIMS.
Essential experience:
16. Fully proficient in Microtomy and other routine Histological techniques
17. Proficient in English as the AstraZeneca working language
18. Degree in a scientific field (BSc and/or MSc or equivalent experience)
19. Excellent social skills
20. Excellent attention to detail and ability to work on prolonged routine tasks
21. Ensure all the laboratory components within planning operational delivery documents are accurate and fit for purpose.
22. HTA knowledge and understanding
23. Understanding of working with various IT solutions
24. Experience in carrying out activities promptly and to the correct standards
25. Identifying and supporting continuous improvement processes
Desirable experience:
26. Experience in Biobanking
27. Clinical Laboratory scientific experience
28. Experience in the management of projects
29. Training management of staff in microtomy areas
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Date Posted
19-Jun-2024
Closing Date
02-Jul-2024Our mission is to build an inclusive and equitable environment. We want people to feel they belong at AstraZeneca and Alexion, starting with our recruitment process. We welcome and consider applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of characteristics. We offer reasonable adjustments/accommodations to help all candidates to perform at their best. If you have a need for any adjustments/accommodations, please complete the section in the application form.