Specialist Biomedical Scientist - Haematology & Blood Transfusion

University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust; Haywards Heath; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading NHS healthcare provider in Haywards Heath is seeking a HCPC-registered Biomedical Scientist to join their Haematology laboratory team. Applicants should have a BSc in Biomedical Sciences or equivalent and 2 years of NHS lab experience, preferably in Haematology. The successful candidate will validate test results and communicate effectively with clinicians. This role involves working across multiple sites and may include shift work.

Benefits

Supportive working environment

Training and development opportunities

Flexible working options

Qualifications

• HCPC Registration is mandatory.
• 2 years NHS lab experience preferred, specifically in Haematology.
• Evidence of championing diversity in previous roles.

Responsibilities

• Work across the Haematology department's four sections.
• Validate and interpret diagnostic test results.
• Communicate with clinicians regarding complex results.

Skills

HCPC Registration

Extensive knowledge of disease processes

Experience in NHS Haematology lab

Education

BSc Biomedical Sciences

IBMS Accredited Degree

Job description

About UHSussex

At UHSussex we're proud to be at the heart of the NHS. As one of the UK's largest acute trusts, we aim to deliver Excellent Care Everywhere for our patients, our people and our communities. We value diversity, inclusion and respect, and support work life balance where possible. We are a Disability Confident Employer (Level 3) and a Veteran Aware Trust.

We are a university trust and a leader in healthcare research, committed to learning, teaching and training to support your growth and development. We encourage applications from candidates who are motivated to grow and make a difference.

Candidate Information Pack and application accessibility information are provided to help you apply.

We look forward to receiving your application and the start of your journey with UHSussex.

Job overview

Applications are invited from HCPC-registered Biomedical Scientists for the Registered Biomedical Scientist role within the Haematology laboratory at University Hospital Sussex NHS Foundation Trust. The successful candidate will work in a team rotating through all sections of the laboratory across the Royal Sussex County Hospital, Brighton and the Princess Royal Hospital, Haywards Heath sites.

Candidates who are working towards their IBMS Specialist Portfolio are eligible to apply. The full band 6 post will only be awarded once this has been completed.

The department provides Haematology, Coagulation, Immunohaematology and Blood Transfusion services to University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust, GPs through Primary Care Trusts, and a specialist service to other NHS Trusts in Sussex, Surrey and Kent. It holds ISO accreditation 15189 and is approved by the Institute of Biomedical Sciences as a training laboratory. Major investment is ongoing within the Trust to support advanced care facilities.

Previous applicants need not apply

Main duties

The Haematology department operates 4 sections across 2 sites: Haematology, Coagulation, Immunohaematology and Blood Transfusion. The successful candidate will work across all sections. The department runs a full 24 hour shift system; the successful candidate will be expected to participate in all aspects of this (including nights, weekends and bank holidays) subject to competency assessment. This attracts additional pay above Agenda for Change rates.

• Has extensive knowledge of disease processes and the clinical relevance and appropriateness of diagnostic tests requested.
• Communicates with the requesting physician to discuss test suitability and availability of further tests; discusses with senior staff as appropriate.
• Validates results according to the SOP. Interprets results with previous results (delta checks). Requests further work as per SOP and refers to senior staff when needed.
• Handles unsuitable samples (e.g., incorrect labelling, old samples, insufficient volume) and requests repeats as required.
• Contacts clinicians with highly complex or sensitive results, ensuring understanding and accurate transcription; directs calls to the appropriate area of the lab.

Please see Job Description and Person Specification for full details.

Person specification

Qualifications

Essential criteria

• HCPC Registration
• BSc Biomedical Sciences or Degree accredited by IBMS as suitable for HCPC registration

Specialist Portfolio

Essential criteria

• Completed Specialist Portfolio

Desirable criteria

• Specialist portfolio over 80% complete

2 years NHS lab experience

Essential criteria

• 2 years NHS Haematology lab experience
• Experience of more specialist techniques

Desirable criteria

• 1 year NHS Haematology lab experience

Equality Diversity and Inclusion

Essential criteria

• Evidence of championing diversity in previous roles (as appropriate to role)
• Evidence of undertaking own development to improve understanding of equalities issues

Important information for applicants

A Note on AI Use in Applications: We value individuality and authenticity. While AI tools are increasingly accessible, we discourage their use in completing your application. Your responses should reflect your own voice and experiences.

Closing Adverts Early: In exceptional interest cases, adverts may close earlier than specified. Some adverts are capped for a limited number of applications; submit early to avoid missing out.

Flexible Working: If you would like to explore flexible working options, please speak with the recruiting/line manager.

DBS Checks: We undertake a Disclosure and Barring Service check for new employees where eligible. We make offers in line with the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1975.

Skilled Worker Visa: Applications for Skilled Worker sponsorship are welcome where eligibility criteria are met. Visit gov.uk for details. It is the applicant's responsibility to ensure eligibility.

UHSussex reserves the right to close the role early if a high volume of applications is received.

Further Information

For help with the application process for Nursing vacancies, please email [e-mail]. For Non-Nursing vacancies, please email [e-mail].

Applicant requirements: You must have appropriate UK professional registration.

Documents to download

• Job Description and Person Specification (PDF, 552.3KB)
• All Staff Networks About Us Flyer (PDF, 304.4KB)
• Guide to completing an application form (PDF, 385.9KB)