We are seeking an enthusiastic Genetic Technologist to work in The Laboratory for Molecular Haemato-Oncology (LMH), which provides a wide repertoire of molecular investigations to the King's Haematological Malignancy Diagnostic Service (SE-HMDS) within the South East NHS Genomic Laboratory Hub (GLH), through identification and quantification of molecular variants/markers for diagnostic, prognostic, and monitoring purposes. You will be working closely with clinical teams as well as other laboratories that make up the SE-HMDS, including immunophenotyping and cytogenetics.
The laboratory performs a range of specialised analytical tests, including RT-PCR for measurable disease monitoring, fragment analysis for chimerism monitoring and FLT3/NPM1 analysis, Next Generation Sequencing using targeted gene panels, microarray karyotyping, analysis of Whole Genome Sequencing data, and ddPCR.
You must have substantial experience in a molecular diagnostics setting. Excellent communication skills and a strong self-directed work ethic are essential. The primary role will be performing, analyzing, and interpreting a range of molecular testing offered by the LMH, with an emphasis on NGS variant and SNP-A microarray data, as well as contributing to the development and validation of new tests, maintaining compliance with the National Test Directory, and satisfying our UKAS accreditation requirements.
Main duties of the job
The post holder will be responsible for delivering a high-quality service covering a range of specialised investigations. The role involves data analysis, result evaluation, interpretation, and reporting of haematological malignancies, ensuring work is carried out to a high standard and within relevant target reporting times.
Primary responsibility of the role will be to undertake specialised analytical tests by performing, analyzing, and interpreting a range of molecular testing offered by the LMH, with an emphasis on NGS variant and SNP-A microarray data.
As part of a fast-paced LMH service, the post holder will, when needed, also perform other molecular investigations including RT-PCR for measurable disease monitoring, and fragment analysis for chimerism monitoring and FLT3/NPM1 analysis. This will involve performing the tests, including the use and maintenance of liquid handling robots, stock control, troubleshooting, and training of staff. Assisting with quality management to maintain compliance with UKAS standards is a core aspect of the role.
For efficient operation of the laboratory, staff may be required to assist with processing clinical samples, maintain laboratory equipment, and perform general clerical and administrative duties. Occasional flexibility in working hours may be needed, with time off in lieu. Good communication, teamwork, and supervisory skills are essential.
About us
Your development and learning
You will have a suite of learning opportunities available through The Synnovis Way Development programme, the Scientific Learning and Development Fund, and the Synnovis Academy through which you can receive funding/support for advanced qualifications.
Through our Innovation Accelerator Fund, you can apply for finance to get that new innovative scientific project off the ground, and participate with the wider scientific community through symposiums, conferences, and other peer group meetings.
We will assist you in maintaining a portfolio that demonstrates CPD achievement and is compliant with the requirements of ongoing HCPC registration. We support flexible working patterns and remote working for activities that can be performed off-site to promote a healthy work/life balance.
Job responsibilities
As part of the LMH team, when needed, the post holder may also carry out other tests or processes, which may include sample preparation, disease monitoring by qPCR, fragment analysis, as well as aspects of Quality management, such as carrying out audits. You must be flexible in terms of the working day, due to the sometimes unpredictable challenges of maintaining a high-intensity service.
Technical and Scientific
* To be able to undertake activities requiring prolonged concentration and attention to details in accordance with Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Health and Safety Regulations.
* Undertake training and development to successfully acquire core competencies necessary for performance as a Genetic Technologist and thereafter maintain the required standards of competence.
The primary responsibility of the role will be to:
* Undertake the analysis of Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) using Haemato-Oncology targeted panels, and SNP-A karyotyping.
* Perform the tests offered by the LMH in line with own individual competencies, such as RT-PCR for measurable disease monitoring, fragment analysis for chimerism monitoring and FLT3/NPM1 analysis, Next Generation Sequencing using targeted gene panels, microarray karyotyping, ddPCR, and analysis of Whole Genome Sequencing data.
* Carry out analysis and interpretation of data using a range of software tools.
* Interpret results in the LIMS and prepare reports ready for authorisation.
* Ensure work is carried out to a high standard and within relevant target reporting times.
The role will also be to assist in the development and implementation of new tests under the direction of senior staff. They will be expected to write new Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) as necessary, and review/update existing SOPs regularly using the laboratory document management system.
Contribute to a comprehensive diagnostic service through participation in all aspects of the LMH workload when required. Key duties include sample booking into the LIMS, preparation of samples for analysis including extraction, quantification, and storage in line with own individual competencies, preparing reagents, stock control, supervision and training of personnel, and maintenance of laboratory equipment, and assist with quality management in maintaining compliance with UKAS standards. The specific duties carried out will depend on the allocated area of work, but staff are expected to be flexible and to work in any area of the department as required subject to training and service need.
Be personally responsible for the time management of multiple tasks and respond to the changing requirements of the laboratory by accommodating additional tasks and responsibilities as required. Complete other appropriate duties as directed by the line manager in the work area.
Liaise with users of the service or the clinical team, as necessary, including direction of enquiries to the appropriate member of staff.
Perform Quality Control procedures relevant to the work area, applying necessary judgement to the initial analysis of results and referring any inconsistencies to the appropriate State Registered Scientist.
Develop and improve scientific expertise via Continuing Professional Development (CPD) and remain up to date with scientific and technical developments in the field.
Laboratory Informatics
Comply with local and national policies for the safe, secure, and confidential processing and storage of patient and other confidential laboratory information.
Be familiar with and proficient in the use of patient databases in accordance with the relevant SOPs.
Records are kept up to date and stored safely to ensure compliance with good work practices required for the standards of UKAS accreditation to ISO 15189:2012.
Maintain the integrity and accuracy of laboratory databases.
Strong IT skills, including proficient use of the Laboratory Information System (LIMS) and clinical databases in accordance with the relevant SOPs.
Communication
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Participate in departmental meetings to communicate results and their clinical implications.
Maintain good working relations with all members of staff and promote effective teamwork while recognising others' skills and priorities.
Communicate with support services and suppliers for orders/issues as necessary.
Quality & Clinical Governance
Ensure adherence to the standards required for a UKAS ISO15189-accredited laboratory, in close liaison with the Quality Lead.
Maintain the highest levels of patient confidentiality and comply with Trust and other relevant standards. Comply with local and national policies for the safe, secure, and confidential processing and storage of patient and other laboratory information.
Health and Safety/Risk Management
The post holder has a general duty of care for the health, safety, and well-being of work colleagues and visitors within the laboratory environment. Employees must be aware of the responsibilities placed on them under the Health and Safety at Work Act (1974).
Work within the LMH and the Rayne Institute's Health and Safety Policy and Local Codes of Practice and maintain Health and Safety Standards in the laboratory.
Synnovis is a pathology partnership between SYNLAB UK and Ireland, and the NHS, including sites, Guys & St Thomas NHS Foundation Trust and Kings College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, to deliver and transform pathology services across South East London.
The partnership provides services to 1.7 million people living in South East London, as well as to hundreds of thousands of patients from outside the region who use local healthcare services.
The partnership provides diagnostics, testing, and digital pathology for hospital trusts, GP services, and other healthcare providers.
Kings College Hospital Foundation Trust is one of the UK's leading NHS Foundation Trusts in specialist teaching. Kings has various divisions including Neurosciences, Haematology, Cancer, and Cardiovascular sciences, where there are unlimited opportunities to develop and perfect your career.
Over the last 170 years, Kings has delivered nothing but world-class service to all its patients from deprived communities as well as some of the wealthiest in London.
Person Specification
Qualifications
* BSc Hons Biomedical Sciences or equivalent.
* Higher degree in the biological sciences.
* HCPC state registration or AHCS registration.
Experience
* Experience of performing a broad range of molecular tests and data analysis, including qPCR and fragment analysis.
* Knowledge and experience of molecular diagnostic laboratory services, including experience of Laboratory Information Management Systems.
* Evidence of research and development capability, or development of new techniques and improving existing assays.
* Evidence of technical problem-solving e.g. equipment failure, quality control failure.
* Evidence of participation in Quality supporting a UKAS accredited laboratory.
* Familiar with haematological malignancy report writing.
* Experience of NGS or microarray data analysis.
Skills & Knowledge
* Good understanding of the haematological neoplasms, with knowledge of the genes and molecular markers which are routinely tested for and monitored.
* Competent in the interpretation and technical validation of results including problem-solving e.g. equipment failure, quality control failure.
* Careful, meticulous, and able to follow instructions.
* Think logically and use initiative and able to organise, prioritise and manage complex activities and to work efficiently and accurately in an independent manner.
* Flexible in terms of the working day, due to the sometimes unpredictable challenges and have a proven ability to work reliably to tight deadlines under pressure.
* Understand the application and significance of Quality Control and compliance with ISO15189 standards and Health & Safety Legislation.
* Ability to train and manage staff effectively.
* Manage workload and prioritize tasks.
* Good working knowledge of Microsoft Excel.
Disclosure and Barring Service Check
This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.
Depending on experience £44,806 to £53,134 per annum depending on experience.
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