Healthcare Scientist (Research and Development) - Laboratory Genetics

NHS National Services Scotland; Scotland; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading healthcare organization in Scotland seeks an experienced Healthcare Scientist to drive translational research initiatives in genetic diagnostics. The candidate will evaluate new technologies, analyze complex genetic data, and implement new testing methods. A strong background in genomics and a relevant degree are essential. The position is fixed-term for one year, offering a 37-hour work week transitioning to 36 hours in 2026, with responsibilities including compliance with laboratory protocols and provision of specialist advice.

Qualifications

• Experience in genomics, particularly cancer or germline.
• Expertise in genetic diagnostics and data interpretation.
• Meticulous adherence to good laboratory practice.

Responsibilities

• Evaluate new technology for routine diagnostic service.
• Analyze complex genetic data from translational projects.
• Provide specialist advice for genetic tests implementation.
• Implement lab's translational research initiatives.
• Follow departmental policies and health regulations.
• Organize work within the laboratory.

Skills

Genetic diagnostics techniques

Data analysis

PCR

Sequencing

Microarrays

FISH

Education

Honours degree in a biological science

Post-graduate qualification as a Clinical Scientist or MSc/PhD

Tools

Genetic diagnostics equipment

Software packages for genetic diagnostics

Job description

NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde is one of the largest healthcare systems in the UK employing around 40,000 staff in a wide range of clinical and non‑clinical professions and job roles. We deliver acute hospital, primary, community and mental health care services to a population of over 1.15 million and a wider population of 2.2 million when our regional and national services are included.

The shift pattern for this position is Monday – Friday 9am-5pm, with one shorter day in line with the AfC working week (37 hours, moving to 36 hours on 1st April 2026).

This is a Fixed term post for 1 year.

Please be advised that, effective 1 April 2026, the full‑time working hours for all Agenda for Change posts will be reduced to 36 hours.

The West of Scotland Centre for Genomic Medicine provides a high‑quality genetics service to the West of Scotland, population 2.7 million, and to the whole of Scotland through the Scottish Strategic Network for Genomic Medicine. Based at the state‑of‑the‑art Laboratory Medicine building at the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital in Glasgow, the Laboratory Genetics department is responsible for the testing of inherited genetic disease and acquired genetic disease (solid and haematological malignancy).

An opportunity has arisen for a Healthcare Scientist responsible for undertaking translational research and development initiatives for the genetic diagnosis of cancer, that include the implementation and validation of new genomic tests and bioinformatic solutions that can be used to deliver testing for Clinical Trials and for future implementation as a routine clinical service.

Responsibilities

• Performing critical evaluation of new technology and subsequent translational implementation into routine diagnostic service.
• Performing complex and highly complex data analysis and the interpretation of complex results from translational projects that include the implementation and validation of new genetic tests.
• Provide highly specialist advice to colleagues and clinicians involved in the laboratory’s translational research and development initiatives, involving the implementation and validation of new genetic tests.
• Work within the Development Programme to implement and deliver the laboratory’s translational research and development initiatives, in consultation with the Development Manager.
• Adhere strictly to the departmental policies and Standard Operating Procedures.
• Follow Health and Safety regulations, as outlined in the laboratories protocols and policies.
• Performing and organises their own work in the laboratory.

Qualifications

• Honours degree or equivalent in a biological science Post-graduate professional qualification as a Clinical Scientist or MSc or PhD along with appropriate equivalent experience in genomics (cancer or germline).
• Specialist experience of genetic diagnostics techniques, including PCR, sequencing, microarrays and FISH.
• Specialist knowledge of genetic diagnostics equipment and software packages.
• Considerable experience in complex genetic diagnostics data analysis and interpretation of complex results, including from next generation sequencing. Careful and meticulous, adhering to good laboratory practice.

Informal contact: Niamh Mangion, Development Manager, On 0141 354 9323 or email [e-mail]

Information for candidates.

Due to the volume of applications that we receive, we will not be able to provide shortlisting feedback.

NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde- NHS Scotland encourages applications from all sections of the community. We promote a culture of inclusion across the organisation and are proud of the diverse workforce we have.

By signing the Armed Forces Covenant, NHSGGC has pledged its commitment to being a Forces Friendly Employer. We support applications from across the Armed Forces Community, recognising military skills, experience and qualifications during the recruitment and selection process.

Candidates should provide original and authentic responses to all questions within the application form. The use of artificial intelligence (AI), automated tools, or other third‑party assistance to generate, draft, or significantly modify responses is strongly discouraged. By submitting your application, you confirm that all answers are your own work, reflect your personal knowledge, skills and experience, and have not been solely produced or altered by AI or similar technologies. Failure to comply with this requirement may result in your application being withdrawn from the application process.

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