Healthcare Science Assistant Practitioner

University Hospital Southampton NHS FT; Salisbury; On-site; GBP 21,000 - 25,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading NHS healthcare provider in Salisbury is seeking a full-time Healthcare Science Assistant Practitioner to join its dynamic genomics team. This role involves processing pathological specimens, ensuring accurate and timely reports, and contributing to patient-centered service provision. Candidates must have a strong background in laboratory work and a good understanding of genomic processes. The organization promotes a diverse and inclusive workplace, supporting flexible working arrangements.

Qualifications

• Essential A level or equivalent in at least two subjects from Maths, English, and Science at level A to C.
• Desirable ECDL or equivalent knowledge of computers.
• Essential previous experience in laboratory work.

Responsibilities

• Process pathological specimens for diagnostic purposes.
• Work under reduced supervision when necessary.
• Prepare samples and run assays.

Skills

Attention to detail

Knowledge of genomic processes

Laboratory work experience

Education

A level or equivalent in Maths, English, and Science

ECDL or equivalent knowledge of computers

Job description

Job Overview

University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust is delighted to offer a fantastic opportunity to work with us.

Please see below for detailed job description of the role.

Main duties of the job

An exciting opportunity has arisen in the Wessex Genomics Laboratory Service (WGLS) in Salisbury for a full‑time Healthcare Science Assistant Practitioner to join our dynamic genomics team.

The WGLS is a new integrated genomics testing service formed from the amalgamation of Wessex Regional Genetics Laboratory, now WGLS (Salisbury), and Molecular Pathology which is based at University Hospital Southampton (UHS). The WGLS is part of the Central & South Genomic Laboratory Hub.

Employment will be with UHS but the role will be based at WGLS (Salisbury) within Salisbury District Hospital. There are future plans to re‑locate to a joint facility with WGLS (Southampton) in the Southampton area once a suitable site has been identified (with a minimum 1 year notice prior to relocation).

Working for our organisation

University Hospital Southampton is one of England's largest acute teaching Trusts, offering a wide range of learning and development opportunities to support your career aspirations.

Located on the south coast with an international airport and direct rail links to London, Southampton offers an ideal setting to live and work, with the New Forest, South Downs and Jurassic Coast.

We believe that using technology wisely shows strong time management and commitment to innovation. However, personalizing your recruitment application to highlight your unique skills and experiences is crucial. Relying too heavily on generic, AI‑generated content instead of drawing from your own strengths and accomplishments may lead to your application being rejected if multiple candidates present identical or similar information.

At UHS we’re committed to providing a flexible working environment where possible. Whether you are balancing family, study, or your wellbeing with your career, we want to support you so you can help our patients.

At UHS, we proudly champion individuality, recognizing that outstanding care is only possible with a diverse, inclusive team. We’re committed to creating an anti‑racist, anti‑discriminatory environment where everyone feels valued, safe, and empowered to make a meaningful impact in our communities. We welcome applicants of all backgrounds, identities, and experiences to join us in building a healthcare community where everyone can belong, thrive, and contribute.

Detailed Job Description And Main Responsibilities

To process a range of pathological specimens under the supervision of senior technical staff and clinical scientists for screening, diagnostic and monitoring purposes and provide accurate, timely and appropriate analytical data.

To be capable of working under a reduced level of supervision when necessary.

To work flexible hours as determined by the needs of the service.

Main duties of the job

Attached you will find the person specification document which provides more detail about the essential and desirable skills and experience needed for this role. We highly recommend you review this document and use it when completing your application as these criteria are used by hiring managers as guidance during shortlisting.

For an overview of the main duties of the role please see the ‘Job Description and Main Responsibilities’ section below. To understand the day‑to‑day responsibilities in more detail please read the full job description document attached.

Your Responsibilities

You will join our diagnostic team who are committed to patient‑centred service provision through accurate and timely data analysis, interpretation and reporting of genomic information. Attention to detail is essential to ensure that patient results are delivered in a safe and efficient way in order to direct patient management and therapeutic decisions.

This post will be working across a range of sections with main focus areas of Cytogenetics, DNA Extraction and Molecular processes. you will be responsible for undertaking sample and test prep as well as running and troubleshooting assays.

Person specification

Qualifications / Training

Essential criteria

• A level or equivalent in at least two from Maths, English and Science at level A to C

Desirable criteria

• ECDL or equivalent knowledge of computers
• Previous knowledge of hospital IT systems
• Completion of an internal multidisciplinary laboratory training course

Previous or relevant experience necessary

Essential criteria

• Previous experience in laboratory work
• Knowledge of genomic processes

Desirable criteria

• Previous experience in an NHS environment
• Previous experience of performing genomic procedures
• Previous experience in a diagnostic medical laboratory

Values and behaviours

Essential criteria

• Patients First
• Always Improving
• Working Together