Associate Practitioner

Job summary

The Royal Marsden has a vital role in championing change and improvement in cancer care through research and innovation, education and leading-edge practice. We are proud of our international reputation for groundbreaking work in cancer treatment and care.

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an Associate Practitioner to join the Clinical Genomics department, located in the Centre for Molecular Pathology. This department is one of seven national Genomic Laboratory Hubs offering Cancer Genomic testing in England, providing reference Molecular Diagnostics and Cytogenetics Services for solid tumours and haematological malignancies, and participating in clinical trials.

The post holder will rotate through the Clinical Genomics laboratories, performing duties such as specimen reception, data entry, DNA/RNA/ctDNA extraction, and supporting activities like quality assurance, equipment maintenance, and audits. Attention to detail and adherence to protocols are essential.

Main duties of the job

• Support scientific teams in providing a timely and efficient accredited Clinical Genomics Service.
• Work independently and as part of a team to meet performance standards.
• Perform laboratory support duties across Cancer Diagnostics Central Reception and Clinical Genomics areas, including sample collection, data entry, sample prioritisation, and distribution.
• Participate in a shift system to cover specimen reception hours from 8.30am to 5.30pm.

About us

The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust is a world-leading cancer centre committed to providing the best cancer care and advancing research. We employ over 4,500 staff across various roles and have two hospitals in Chelsea and Sutton, as well as a Medical Daycare Unit in Kingston Hospital.

We value life and strive for excellence in everything we do, offering a dynamic working environment, staff benefits, development opportunities, and flexible working arrangements.

Job details

Posted on: 24 April 2025

Pay scheme: Agenda for Change

Band: Band 4

Salary: £31,081 to £33,665 per annum, including HCAS

Contract: Permanent

Working pattern: Full-time

Location: The Royal Marsden, Downs Road, Sutton, SM2 5PT

Job responsibilities

• Collect biological samples from pathology labs, theatres, switchboard, and other areas, maintaining audit trails.
• Receive and verify samples from referral hospitals, labs, and wards, ensuring correct identification and logging.
• Handle high-risk samples safely according to policy.
• Prioritise samples based on SOPs and lab requirements.
• Input patient data from external sources into HIS, LIMS, and other systems daily.
• Distribute samples promptly to laboratories, ensuring audit trail completion.

Person Specification

Skills and Abilities (Essential)

• Clear written communication
• Intermediate IT skills and accurate data entry
• GCSE in Mathematics
• Ability to collect and distribute biological samples across the hospital site

Desirable

• Knowledge of medical terminology

Personal Qualities (Essential)

• Supportive role capability
• Ability to follow written instructions and SOPs
• Attention to detail and accuracy

Specific Experience (Essential)

• Education including A levels with a science subject
• Recognised qualification in Maths & English
• Willingness to undergo relevant training
• Experience in a relevant laboratory setting
• Ability to understand and follow SOPs
• Willingness to handle biological samples and follow lab safety practices
• Understanding of task prioritisation and quality management

Desirable

• BSc in Biological Science
• Knowledge of laboratory techniques

Additional Information

This role is subject to a DBS check due to the handling of biological samples.