Job summary 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. About us The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust is a world-leading cancer centre. Our role is to offer our patients the best cancer care available anywhere in the world, and to continue to make a global contribution to finding better ways of diagnosing and treating cancer. We employ over 4,500 staff in a diverse range of careers including nursing, medical, science, radiography, pharmacy, occupational therapy, finance and administrative services. We have two hospitals - one in Chelsea, London, and one in Sutton, Surrey - as well as a Medical Daycare Unit in Kingston Hospital. At The Royal Marsden, we deal with cancer every day, so we understand how valuable life is. When people entrust their lives to us, they have the right to demand the very best. That's why the pursuit of excellence lies at the heart of everything we do. At the heart of the hospital is our dedicated team. We offer a stimulating and dynamic working environment, a wide range of staff benefits, learning and development opportunities and clear career pathways. There are opportunities to work flexibly across a range of areas and specialities and we welcome flexible working requests from point of hire to support employees work life balance. We are looking for employees who aspire to excellence, share our values and can play a crucial role in our on-going achievements. Date posted 17 March 2025 Pay scheme Agenda for change Band Band 3 Salary £28,622 to £30,225 a year Per Annum Inc HCAS Contract Permanent Working pattern Full-time Reference number 282-SA338 Job locations The Royal Marsden Hospital Sutton Sutton SM2 5PT Job description Job responsibilities For further information on this role, please see the attached detailed Job Description and Person Specification 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. Job description Job responsibilities For further information on this role, please see the attached detailed Job Description and Person Specification 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 Ability to write clearly Evidence of intermediate IT skills and data entry accuracy GCSE in Mathematics Ability to collect & distribute biological samples across the Sutton hospital site Desirable Knowledge of medical terminology Personal Qualities Essential Ability to undertake a support role Able to follow written instructions including SOPs Attention to detail & accuracy Specific Experience Essential Good education to include A levels, including a science subject Willing to undergo relevant training Experience of working within a relevant laboratory Experience & knowledge of duties required to support senior staff gained by experience in a similar role Able to understand and follow SOPs Awareness that role involves handling of biological samples and willingness to be trained in this area Awareness of and ability to follow laboratory H&S practice for handling pathological specimens or willingness to undergo training in this area Good understanding of task prioritisation & demonstration of practice Basic understanding of quality management & experience of delivering good quality of service Desirable BSc degree in Biological Science Knowledge of theory & practice of laboratory techniques Person Specification Skills and Abilities Essential Ability to write clearly Evidence of intermediate IT skills and data entry accuracy GCSE in Mathematics Ability to collect & distribute biological samples across the Sutton hospital site Desirable Knowledge of medical terminology Personal Qualities Essential Ability to undertake a support role Able to follow written instructions including SOPs Attention to detail & accuracy Specific Experience Essential Good education to include A levels, including a science subject Willing to undergo relevant training Experience of working within a relevant laboratory Experience & knowledge of duties required to support senior staff gained by experience in a similar role Able to understand and follow SOPs Awareness that role involves handling of biological samples and willingness to be trained in this area Awareness of and ability to follow laboratory H&S practice for handling pathological specimens or willingness to undergo training in this area Good understanding of task prioritisation & demonstration of practice Basic understanding of quality management & experience of delivering good quality of service Desirable BSc degree in Biological Science Knowledge of theory & practice of laboratory techniques 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. Employer details Employer name The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust Address The Royal Marsden Hospital Sutton Sutton SM2 5PT Employer's website https://www.royalmarsden.nhs.uk/working-royal-marsden (Opens in a new tab)