Job overview
We seek a Medical Laboratory Assistant to join the Clinical Genomics department. The department is in the Centre for Molecular Pathology and is part of the North Thames - Genomic Laboratory Hubs (GLH) one of seven national GLHs offering Cancer Genomic testing in England. The department provides a reference Molecular Diagnostics and Cytogenetics Service for solid tumours and haematological malignancies, as well as participating in clinical trials and translational research.
The post holder will be required to rotate through the Clinical Genomics laboratories to perform technical support duties, including but not limited to, specimen reception, data entry, etc. The post holder will be expected to assist in training and support activities such as quality, equipment maintenance and audits. Attention to detail is essential, and the post holder must be able to work to high standards following defined protocols.
The successful applicant must have relevant A levels, including a science subject, and have experience working in a relevant laboratory. Experience in cytogenetic and molecular diagnostics techniques is desirable. Please note total weekly working hours are 37.5 hours, however in line with the NHSE requirements for the delivery of the Cancer Test Directory, the Clinical Genomics department will operate an extended working hours service, the post holder will be required to participate in a shift system on a rotational basis.
Main duties of the job
The post holder must be able to take responsibility for working alone and as part of a team to achieve the necessary performance levels. The post-holder will be expected to work within Clinical Genomics Central Reception and all areas of Clinical Genomics (both Cytogenetics and Molecular Diagnostics) to perform laboratory support duties with minimal supervision. The major focus of the role will be on sample collection, data entry, sample sendaway, sample prioritisation and distribution working within the Cancer Diagnostics Central Reception.
In addition, the post holder will be required to rotate through the Clinical Genomics laboratories to perform laboratory support duties. Such duties will include specimen processing, data entry of requests, packaging samples to send away, equipment maintenance tasks and supporting scientists in providing a reliable and accurate diagnostic service. Attention to detail is essential, and the post holder must be able to work to high standards, following defined protocols and assist in the production of accurate and high-quality analytical results for the diagnosis and treatment of patients.
Detailed job description and main responsibilities
·To collect different types of biological samples from the main Pathology laboratories, minor procedures, theatres, and switchboard during the day, including late samples, and maintaining all relevant audit trails.
· Specimen reception: receipt and checking of samples against request forms, liaising with clinical staff regarding labelling errors, identifying and taking appropriate action with high risk specimens and dealing with leaking/damaged samples. Sort samples for processing.
·To prioritise samples according to SOPs and laboratory requirements.
·To input patient-related data received from external referral hospitals, wards and clinical areas including test requests into IT systems.
Person specification
Skills and Abilities
Essential criteria
1. Ability to write clearly
2. Evidence of intermediate IT skills and data entry accuracy
3. GCSE in Mathematics
4. Ability to collect & distribute biological samples across the Sutton hospital site
Desirable criteria
5. Knowledge of medical terminology
Personal Qualities
Essential criteria
6. Ability to undertake a support role
7. Able to follow written instructions including SOPs
8. Attention to detail & accuracy
Specific Experience
Essential criteria
9. Good education to include A levels, including a science subject
10. Willing to undergo relevant training
11. Experience of working within a relevant laboratory
12. Experience & knowledge of duties required to support senior staff gained by experience in a similar role
13. Able to understand and follow SOPs
14. Awareness that role involves handling of biological samples and willingness to be trained in this area
15. Awareness of and ability to follow laboratory H&S practice for handling pathological specimens or willingness to undergo training in this area
16. Good understanding of task prioritisation & demonstration of practice
17. Basic understanding of quality management & experience of delivering good quality of service
Desirable criteria
18. BSc degree in Biological Science
19. Knowledge of theory & practice of laboratory techniques
The Royal Marsden values diversity and is committed to the recruitment and retention of underrepresented minority groups. We particularly welcome applications from Black, Asian and minority ethnic candidates, LGBTQ+ candidates and candidates with disabilities.
As a Disability Confident Employer, we are working to create a workplace that enables all staff to reach their full potential. We are committed to this because we know that greater diversity and inclusion will lead to an even greater positive impact for the people we serve.
Due to the high volumes of applications we receive, we reserve the right to close any adverts before the published closing date once we have received a sufficient number of applications. We advise you to submit your application as early as possible to prevent disappointment.
Flu Vaccination – What We Expect of our Staff
At The Royal Marsden we have an immune compromised patient population who we must protect as much as we can against the flu virus. Each year, seasonal flu affects thousands of people in the UK. Occurring mainly in winter, it is an infectious respiratory disease capable of producing symptoms ranging from those similar to a common cold, through to very severe or even fatal disease.
The wellbeing of our staff and patients is of the upmost importance to us, and it is the expectation of The Royal Marsden that all patient-facing staff have an annual flu vaccination, provided free of charge by the Trust.
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