Pathology Information Technology (IT) Microbiology Specialist

University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust; Brighton; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

The University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust is seeking a Pathology IT Microbiology Specialist to lead IT support for Microbiology. This role involves managing Laboratory Information Management Systems, developing IT services, and ensuring optimal lab operations. Join a diverse and inclusive team committed to compassionate care.

Benefits

Flexible working arrangements

Staff networks and buddy schemes

Commitment to staff wellbeing

Qualifications

• Experience in managing and supporting Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS).
• Strong analytical skills and understanding of clinical IT systems.
• Ability to lead initiatives and innovate within laboratory IT processes.

Responsibilities

• Lead IT support for Microbiology, ensuring efficient lab IT processes.
• Configure and maintain LIMS and Order Communications System.
• Develop and implement Standard Operating Procedures and manage audits.

Skills

Technical Support

Troubleshooting

IT System Development

Process Optimization

Education

Degree in IT, Computer Science or a related field

Job description

As the Pathology IT Microbiology Specialist, the post-holder will lead all aspects of IT related to Microbiology. This includes technical support, troubleshooting, and liaising with departmental heads, clinical heads, laboratory scientists, and support staff.

A primary role is the configuration and maintenance of the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) and Order Communications System, supporting clinical work practices to implement safe, efficient, and optimized Laboratory IT processes.

This role involves supporting and developing IT processes that communicate with the LIMS as a pivotal system within a wider network of interconnected clinical IT systems, including Trust Clinical Systems, Primary Care IT, Community Care IT, billing systems, and regional/national health agencies.

The post-holder will critically review, prepare, implement, and maintain Standard Operating Procedures, troubleshoot IT-related problems, and maintain complex analytical equipment.

Regular auditing of management and operational performance data such as accuracy, precision, turnaround times, workload, and material consumption is required, with planning and corrective actions as needed.

The role includes leading the development of IT services to meet future clinical and public health needs, proactively introducing new services and innovative technologies where significant clinical improvements are identified and resources permit.

This encompasses advancements related to IT systems, analyzers, the Laboratory Information Management System, and microbiology-specific programs such as Infection Prevention and Control.

The post-holder will be responsible for designing, developing, implementing, and maintaining the Microbiology module/rules, interfaces, and data transfer systems to support the service and clinical outcomes.

They will serve as the designated Micro IT Subject Matter Expert, understanding departmental requirements and processes, leading on both in-house developed and externally procured applications, and liaising with the Pathology Transformation Team and Project Managers.

Initiating audits to monitor clinical effectiveness and managing investigations of incidents in the service, reporting findings to the Microbiology Quality Lead.

UHSussex values diversity and inclusion, encouraging a community where everyone can succeed. The trust offers staff networks, buddy schemes, and is a Disability Confident Employer (Level 2) and a Veteran Aware Trust.

The organization is committed to compassionate and empathetic care, supporting staff wellbeing through extensive programs and flexible working arrangements.

As a university trust and healthcare research leader, UHSussex emphasizes learning, teaching, and training, supporting staff development throughout their careers.

We look forward to your application and the opportunity to welcome you to UHSussex.