Biomedical Scientist (B5) in H&I

University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire (UHCW) NHS Trust; Plymouth; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading healthcare provider in Plymouth is seeking a skilled Biomedical Scientist to process and analyze biological samples. The role requires a high level of expertise in analytical techniques, ensuring quality results for patient diagnosis and treatment. The successful candidate will also participate in training and quality assurance programs, contributing to the continuous improvement of laboratory services.

Qualifications

• Demonstrate high skill in complex analytical techniques.
• Participate in training of Trainee Biomedical Scientists.

Responsibilities

• Process biological samples and ensure quality of results.
• Perform troubleshooting and repairs on complex analyzers.

Skills

Analytical Techniques

Problem Solving

Communication

Education

State Registration with Health Professions Council

Tools

Path Computer System

Multichannel Analyzers

Job description

PRIMARY DUTIES & AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY

To process biological samples including blood, urine, faeces, cerebral spinal fluid, and other tissues, taking personal responsibility for the quality and authorization of the results, which are used in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of disease. The post holder will demonstrate the high level of skill to perform complex manual, semi-automated, and automated analytical techniques as applicable, meeting turnaround times with prompt reporting of results used in the diagnosis and treatment of disease. The post holder will be required to provide complex information relating to test results, which may be sensitive in nature. As a state registered Scientist with the Health Professions Council, understand the pathology of disease in relation to the results produced and be aware of their significance in the authorization of patient results with reference to the normal ranges.

Will be aware of the clinical significance of results produced and use this knowledge to perform appropriate supplementary tests/investigations relevant to providing a complete report to requesting clinicians. To prioritize work and perform urgent analyses, reporting results to requesting clinicians as appropriate. Identify abnormal or unexpected results and ensure prompt reporting, follow-up, and referral to medical staff as required. Follow protocols, request additional tests or samples to aid in the diagnosis or treatment of disease.

To understand the principles underlying the analytical processes used in your area of work to maintain their operation and quality of results. To receive request forms and accompanying samples, book those into the Path Computer system, prepare the samples (including centrifugation) for analysis, load and unload samples from analyzers, sort into racks, and transfer for storage upon completion. Answer telephone inquiries regarding results and other general laboratory issues, e.g., giving advice on the correct conditions and sample types for particular test requests.

To operate analytical equipment within your section, discipline, and department, some of which will be highly complex and require specialist training. To perform front-line troubleshooting and repairs of analyzers of highly complex, expensive automated equipment, e.g., multichannel analyzers, used in the day-to-day function of the laboratory. To participate in and understand the quality assurance programs of the department, both internal and external, e.g., NEQAS (National External Quality Assurance Schemes).

To observe all departmental, Trust, national, and European Health & Safety regulations relevant to the service, ensuring attendance at the annual departmental H&S update. All staff must sign the departmental H&S policy to acknowledge understanding and compliance. To continually update their knowledge and skills, documenting this in their Continual Professional Development folder.

To ensure contemporaneous completion of your induction and training records. To communicate with other healthcare professionals regarding transmission and in response to telephone inquiries related to results and the service. To assist in the preparation of specimens for analysis. To assist senior colleagues in maintaining adequate stocks of reagents and consumables to ensure continuous service provision.

To follow Standard Operating Procedures at all times and as directed by senior staff, contributing to their formulation. To propose any changes to these SOPs to maintain service quality and maximize efficiency. To attend meetings and training courses as necessary, including annual Statutory and Essential Update Training.

To attend departmental briefings and/or familiarize yourself with team briefings posted on departmental notice boards. To assist in maintaining and compiling workload statistics and in continual quality improvement processes, including audits, corrective actions, and preventative measures.

To participate in an annual IPR and achieve set targets. To participate in the training of Trainee Biomedical Scientists and new staff. To assist senior staff in supervising Trainee Biomedical Scientists and Assistant Technical Officers. To assist in internal and external audits.

To rotate through sections of the Combined Laboratory as required. Participate in the 24/7 on-call rota for H&I to support the renal transplant program. Engage in clinical trials or research & development activities, including sample preparation, analysis, and data collation. Undertake work from any source as directed by senior departmental staff, consistent with your knowledge and skills as a state-registered Biomedical Scientist.

Ensure issues and problems are resolved satisfactorily and referred through your line management as appropriate. Cover for senior staff and be prepared to work independently when necessary. To carry out other duties as appropriate and work in other pathology specialties as directed.

COMMUNICATIONS & WORKING RELATIONSHIPS

Accountable to the Laboratory Manager through the Lead Scientist and Section Leaders. May serve as a mentor during new staff induction. Attend departmental briefings and review minutes. Key relationships include Senior Biomedical Scientists and Section Leaders, support staff, NHS colleagues, and occasionally equipment suppliers.

OTHER

The post holder will participate in 24/7 rotas if applicable, and must dress and act professionally at all times.