Biomedical Scientist - Specialised Microbiology

NHS Professionals; Cambridge; On-site; GBP 32,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is seeking an experienced Biomedical Scientist to join the Public Health Microbiology team in Cambridge via NHS Professionals Bank, on an immediate basis, until September 2027. You will perform routine and specialist microbiological and molecular investigations, interpret results, and support daily laboratory operations in a busy setting.

The role requires HCPC registration, a BSc in Biomedical Science, and demonstrable Band 6 experience.

Qualifications

• HCPC registration and HCPC standards adherence.
• BSc (Hons) in Biomedical Science or equivalent.
• Demonstrable specialist laboratory experience at Band 6 level.
• Knowledge of quality and health & safety systems (UKAS/HSE).
• Strong written, verbal and presentation skills.

Responsibilities

• Perform a wide range of routine and specialist microbiological and molecular investigations.
• Process clinical specimens and ensure timely, accurate results.
• Determine appropriate investigations and testing pathways for different specimens.
• Interpret and report results, escalating anomalies as needed.
• Collaborate across laboratory sections (Bacteriology, Serology, Molecular Diagnostics).
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of clinical microbiology developments.

Skills

HCPC registration

BSc in Biomedical Science

Band 6 experience

Excellent communication

Education

BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science

Job description

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is looking for an experienced and motivated Biomedical Scientist to join the Public Health Microbiology team in Cambridge via NHS Professionals Bank, on an immediate basis, until September 2027.

The role involves undertaking a broad range of routine and specialist microbiological and molecular investigations, interpreting and reporting results, maintaining high professional and technical standards, and supporting the effective day‑to‑day operation of the laboratory.

The Role

Key Responsibilities Laboratory & Scientific Responsibilities

• Perform a wide range of routine and specialist microbiological and molecular investigations in accordance with laboratory policies, procedures and SOPs.
• Process clinical specimens and undertake appropriate testing, ensuring results are produced accurately and within required timescales.
• Use professional knowledge and experience to determine appropriate investigations and testing pathways for different specimen types.
• Interpret and report laboratory results, identifying significant, unusual or unexpected findings and escalating these appropriately.
• Work competently across laboratory sections, including:Bacteriology, Containment Level 3, Serology, Chlamydia, Molecular Diagnostics and more.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of clinical microbiology, relevant scientific developments and specialist laboratory techniques.

Equipment & Laboratory Systems

• Operate, maintain and monitor laboratory equipment and automated analysers in accordance with manufacturer instructions and laboratory procedures.
• Maintain appropriate stocks of consumables and ensure the efficient use of laboratory resources.
• Use laboratory IT systems effectively, including booking in specimens, requesting tests, entering and retrieving results, and maintaining appropriate records.

Quality, Governance & Safety

• Work in accordance with UKHSA policies, laboratory procedures, professional guidance and relevant quality standards.
• Contribute to the maintenance of quality standards and the laboratory Quality Management System.
• Monitor quality control results and promptly elevate anomalies or concerns.
• Contribute to audits, quality improvement activities and the review and development of SOPs.
• Report accidents, incidents and hazards appropriately.
• Assist with risk assessments relating to new techniques, procedures and SOP reviews.

Essential Criteria

• Current registration with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).
• BSc (Hons) in Biomedical Science or equivalent academic qualification
• Demonstrable specialist laboratory experience appropriate to a Band 6 Biomedical Scientist role.
• Sound knowledge and application of quality and health & safety systems, including UKAS standards and HSE regulations.
• Excellent written, verbal and presentation skills.
• Ability to communicate complex information clearly and accurately to a range of audiences.

Why join UKHSA?

UKHSA is the nation's expert health security agency, working to prevent, detect, analyse and respond to infectious diseases and other threats to health. By joining us, you will have the opportunity to contribute to work that protects communities, supports the NHS and strengthens health security nationally and internationally.

Work Location:

Addenbrooke's Hospital - Hills Rd, Cambridge CB2 0QQ