Associate Practitioner | The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust

The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust; Greater London; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading cancer care provider in the Greater London area is seeking an experienced Associate Practitioner for Clinical Genomics. This role involves independently supporting a laboratory service, participating in tasks such as specimen collection, data entry, and quality checks. Candidates should have relevant A-level qualifications in a science subject and experience in a laboratory environment. The post includes working a rotational shift system covering evenings and weekends. This position is a unique opportunity to contribute to innovative cancer care practices.

Benefits

Flexible working options

Opportunities for learning and development

Clear career pathways

Qualifications

• Experience working in a relevant laboratory setting.
• Desirable experience in cytogenetic and molecular diagnostics techniques.
• Ability to adhere to defined protocols and produce accurate analytical results.

Responsibilities

• Support scientific teams in providing a timely and efficient accredited clinical service.
• Collect biological samples and ensure compliance with safety policies.
• Verify sample identification and log samples accurately.
• Perform specimen reception and data entry in accordance with established protocols.
• Maintain equipment and conduct routine quality checks.

Skills

Analytical skills

Attention to detail

Teamwork

IT literacy

Communication

Education

Relevant A-level qualifications including a science subject

Job description

Position Overview

The Royal Marsden is committed to pioneering cancer care through research, education and innovative practice. The Clinical Genomics department, based in the Centre for Molecular Pathology, is one of seven national Genomic Laboratory Hubs that provide Cancer Genomic testing across England. It offers a reference Molecular Diagnostics and Cytogenetics Service for solid tumours and haematological malignancies and participates in clinical trials.

Associate Practitioner – Clinical Genomics

We are seeking an experienced laboratory professional to support the delivery of an accredited Clinical Genomics Service. The post holder will work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team, taking responsibility for laboratory support duties across Cytogenetics and Molecular Diagnostics.

Key Responsibilities

• Support scientific teams in providing a timely and efficient accredited clinical service.
• Collect biological samples from pathology laboratories, theatres and switchboard, maintain audit trails and ensure compliance with safety policies.
• Verify sample identification against request forms, log samples, and liaise with staff to resolve errors or omissions.
• Perform specimen reception, data entry, DNA/RNA/ctDNA extraction, cell culturing, slide preparation for FISH and tumour assessment, and macrodissection.
• Maintain equipment, conduct routine quality checks and participate in accreditation audits.
• Assist in training, support activities and quality documentation for less experienced staff, trainees, students and MLA’s.
• Support data management relating to the technical aspects of the molecular service and maintain high standards following defined protocols.

Requirements

• Relevant A‑level qualifications, including a science subject.
• Experience working in a relevant laboratory setting.
• Desirable experience in cytogenetic and molecular diagnostics techniques.
• Strong IT literacy and ability to manage data in audit systems.
• Excellent communication, teamwork and attention to detail.
• Ability to adhere to defined protocols and produce accurate analytical results.

Working Hours & Shift System

The position is 37.5 hours per week. In line with NHSE requirements for the Cancer Test Directory, the department operates an extended service, and the post holder will participate in a rotational shift system, including evening and weekend coverage as required.

About The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust

The Royal Marsden is a world‑leading cancer centre with two hospitals – one in Chelsea, London, and one in Sutton, Surrey – and a Medical Daycare Unit in Kingston Hospital. It employs over 4,500 staff across a wide range of careers and offers a stimulating, dynamic working environment, flexible working options, and opportunities for learning, development and clear career pathways.

Application Closing Date

This advert closes on Thursday 1 Jan 2026.