Biomedical Scientist | North Bristol NHS Trust

North Bristol NHS; Bristol; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading healthcare provider in Bristol is seeking a laboratory professional to provide specialist diagnostic services in Microbiology. Responsibilities include processing samples, reporting test results, and training new staff. Ideal candidates will have experience in a laboratory setting and strong technical skills. The role emphasizes teamwork and adherence to professional standards. Competitive salary and opportunities for professional development are offered.

Qualifications

• Experience in a diagnostic laboratory setting.
• Ability to work under direction and as part of a team.
• Strong technical skills in microbiology.

Responsibilities

• Receive, document, and process samples submitted to the department.
• Examine and report on microscopic preparations and cultures.
• Participate in training and development of new staff.

Job description

Overview

Working as part of a team under the direction of Senior Staff to provide routine and specialist diagnostic laboratory service in Microbiology in accordance with national and professional standards.

The post holder will work on a rotational basis in all sections of the laboratory.

The post holder will participate in the training, development and supervision of new members of BMS staff, Medical Laboratory Assistants (MLA), medical staff and other healthcare professionals within the department.

To understand more about Pathology at NBT, watch our video.

Responsibilities

• To receive, document and process samples submitted to the department in accordance with laboratory policies and protocols.
• To examine and report on microscopic preparations and cultures of patient samples and decide upon further tests required to identify any organisms isolated. To perform antibiotic susceptibility tests on significant pathogens for guidance of patient treatment.
• Process screening samples e.g. MRSA and C. difficile for the Trust Infection Control Team.
• Interpret, technically validate and report on all routine tests.
• To process antibiotic assays, enabling guidance to be given to requesters on effective dosing.
• To work in rotation in any area of the department.
• To work in accordance with the Standard Operating Procedures.
• To take responsibility for organising their own area of work.
• To telephone important results to an appropriate person when necessary.
• To participate in record keeping processes.
• To enter and retrieve patient / laboratory data from the department’s IT system.
• To maintain a high level of professional competence in the performance of all tests and investigations carried out.
• To prepare and maintain adequate supplies of reagents and consumables.
• To ensure the efficient and safe use of consumables.
• To be responsible for the day to day maintenance and cleanliness of the equipment.
• To participate in internal and external quality control procedures.
• To participate in quality assurance procedures, including maintenance records and corrective actions.

About North Bristol NHS Trust

North Bristol NHS Trust employs over 12,000 staff providing healthcare to the residents of Bristol, South Gloucestershire and North Somerset from our award-winning hospital building at Southmead. We are the regional Major Trauma Centre, and an internationally recognised centre of excellence in a range of services and major specialities. Our vision is that by enabling our teams to be the best that they can be, we will provide exceptional healthcare, personally delivered.

We commit to treating each patient as an individual with respect and dignity, aiming to deliver excellent clinical outcomes and a first-class experience for everyone who uses our services.

North Bristol NHS Trust values all people as individuals. We aim to be an anti-discriminatory organisation and are committed to building a team that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. We welcome applicants from all underrepresented groups.

The Bacteriology Laboratory in Bristol forms part of Infection Sciences and is situated within the purpose-built Pathology Sciences Building at Southmead Hospital, North Bristol Trust. A second small laboratory is situated within the Royal United Hospital in Bath. In total, the Laboratory undertakes approximately 1.4 million tests per annum and overall employs 200 highly motivated and dedicated staff.

Please see above and Job Description attached.

Please note the above is only an outline of the tasks, responsibilities and outcomes required of the role. You will carry out other duties as may reasonably be required by the organisation.

The job description and person specification may be reviewed on an ongoing basis in accordance with the changing needs of the organisation.

This advert closes on Monday 22 Sep 2025