Band 5 Laboratory Technician

Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust; City of Westminster; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent NHS trust in the UK is seeking a dedicated laboratory technician to work in histology and molecular genetics. Candidates should have prior experience in a clinical diagnostic laboratory and be adept at both independent and team-based work. This role emphasizes SOP adherence and involves supporting senior staff while contributing to quality management systems. The organization values diversity and encourages all qualified candidates to apply.

Qualifications

• Prior experience in a clinical diagnostic NHS laboratory or equivalent.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team, ensuring timely processing of samples.
• Competence in following SOPs and maintaining training records.

Responsibilities

• Rotate between histology and genetic sections to ensure efficient processing of samples.
• Adhere to SOPs and participate in audits.
• Support senior laboratory staff and cover other sections as needed.
• Contribute to the QA and ensure compliance with UKAS standards.
• Assist with research activities as required.

Skills

Teamwork

Proactive approach

SOP compliance

Job description

Overview

The post holder is required to have prior experience of working in a clinical diagnostic NHS laboratory or equivalent. The role involves undertaking routine laboratory duties across a designated work area (histology or molecular genetics) in accordance with a discipline rota. The post holder will use a wide range of highly specialised techniques in histology and molecular biology and provide support to senior staff. Delays in processing patient samples may impact patient management and access to treatment.

Responsibilities

• Rotate between histology and genetic sections, work independently and as part of the team to ensure efficient processing of patient samples.
• Adhere to SOPs and protocols, participate in audits, and keep training records up to date.
• Support senior laboratory staff and provide cover in other laboratory sections when required.
• Contribute to the implementation, monitoring, and improvement of the Quality Management System (QMS) and ensure compliance with UKAS ISO 15189 standards.
• Assist with any research activities undertaken by the NAC as required.

Qualifications and Requirements

• Prior experience in a clinical diagnostic NHS laboratory or equivalent.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team, with a proactive approach to accurate and timely processing of patient samples.
• Competence in working to SOPs and maintaining up-to-date training records.

Additional Information

Applications from job seekers who require sponsorship to work in the UK are welcome and will be considered alongside all other applications. Please check eligibility under the UKVI points-based system before applying.

Pre-employment verification may include identity checks and right-to-work verification (remote where possible) using certified providers. A DBS (CRB) check may be required for roles involving regulated activities. The trust complies with relevant codes of practice and the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act. Information from applications may be transferred to applicant management and NHS Electronic Staff Records systems if offered a role.

Please note the organisation will communicate via official channels (e.g., NHS or recruit.trac.jobs emails). If you need support submitting an application, refer to the NLPSS Applicant Toolkit.

About the Trust

Our trust has over 17,000 staff serving 2 million patients each year, across multiple hospitals and community services. We are committed to delivering world-class care, teaching, and research, with a focus on excellent outcomes, experience, value, safety, and strong organisational growth. We welcome diversity and strive to promote equality for LGBT+, BME, gender equality, staff carers, and people with disabilities.