Specialist Biomedical Scientist - Biochemistry

NHS; Colchester; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 39,000; Full time

Job summary

Colchester Hospital is looking for a Band 6 Specialist Biomedical Scientist in Biochemistry to cover maternity leave. The ideal candidate will have an MSc in Biomedical Science, HCPC registration, and experience in a Biochemistry Department. Responsibilities include maintaining quality systems, mentoring staff, and leading operations in a 24/7 lab environment.

Benefits

Ongoing professional development

Qualifications

• Registered with HCPC as a BMS.
• Completed IBMS specialist portfolio or equivalent experience.

Responsibilities

• Maintaining quality management system and training junior staff.
• Validating results and ensuring high-quality patient services.
• Leading laboratory operations during shifts.

Skills

Knowledge of Biochemistry laboratory service

Mentoring

Education

MSc in Biomedical Science

Tools

Roche Cobas 8000

NORTSTAR BIO-UV analyser

Job description

Job summary

Colchester Hospital is seeking a motivated and enthusiastic Band 6 Specialist Biomedical Scientist in Biochemistry to cover maternity leave until 15/03/2026.

The ideal candidate should possess an MSc in Biomedical Science, be registered with the HCPC as a BMS, and have completed the IBMS specialist portfolio (Clinical Biochemistry) or have equivalent proven experience at Band 6.

Applicants must have in-depth knowledge of a modern Biochemistry laboratory service and previous experience working within a Biochemistry Department.

Our laboratory is equipped with Roche Cobas 8000 analysers (c702/e801), P612 pre-analytics, and NORTSTAR BIO-UV analyser. We operate as the spoke lab for ESNEFT, providing a 24/7 service, and participation in the out-of-hours rota is required, which includes night rate enhancements for lone working.

We aim to deliver innovative, high-performing pathology services focused on our customers, ensuring high quality and compliance. Our service is clinically led and designed to leverage the benefits of collaboration to meet the needs of our service users and support excellent clinical care.

We are committed to attracting, developing, and retaining top pathology staff. We encourage ongoing professional development through internal and external courses.

Internal applicants currently employed by ESNEFT will be considered on a secondment basis only.

Main duties include maintaining the quality management system, training junior staff, validating results, and ensuring safe, high-quality patient services. As a senior staff member, you will mentor junior staff, assist with their development, and lead the laboratory operations during your shift, including out-of-hours work to support a 24/7 service. You will work independently and lead your specialist area as directed by the Lead Biomedical Scientist.

The role involves contact with human body fluids, tissues, and hazardous chemicals, including blood, pus, urine, feces, and respiratory secretions.