Veterinary Biomedical Scientist (microbiology)

Medivet; Watford; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading veterinary diagnostic laboratory in Watford is seeking a Microbiologist for a fixed-term position to cover maternity leave. You will apply microbiology techniques to a range of veterinary samples while working full-time, including Saturdays. Previous laboratory experience, especially in a quality management system, is advantageous. Joining this collaborative team means making impactful contributions to the care of animals.

Qualifications

• Experience with aseptic technique, specimen plating, and microscopy.
• Knowledge of laboratory microbiology tests and specimen quality.
• Experience in a high-throughput diagnostic laboratory is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Provide diagnostic support for a variety of samples.
• Apply microbiology techniques to test veterinary clinical specimens.
• Participate in quality control processes.

Skills

Basic microbiology techniques

Aseptic technique

Microscopy interpretation

Parasitology techniques

Knowledge of zoonotic organisms

Tools

Vitek 2 analyser

Job description

Overview

We are currently looking for a Microbiologist to join our growing veterinary diagnostic laboratory based in Watford, Hertfordshire. You will be working within a busy and friendly team providing exceptional diagnostic support to our customers upon receipt of a variety of samples.

This is a fixed term role to cover maternity leave.

It is full-time, 37.5 hours per week which will include Saturday working.

What you’ll Do

Training will be provided for the following tasks; however previous experience would be advantageous:

• Application of basic microbiology techniques e.g., aseptic technique, specimen plating/inoculation, plate streaking
• Understanding & performing basic staining techniques
• Carry out and interpret microscopy e.g. Gram-stains, hair/skin scrape slides
• Parasitology techniques: perform basic parasitology techniques
• Knowledge of laboratory microbiology tests and profiles, specimen requirements & issues regarding specimen quality
• Selection of the most appropriate media and culture conditions for all specimen types e.g. blood/joint/CSF cultures, skin and ear swabs, urine, faeces, respiratory tract specimens and body cavity effusions
• Knowledge of main zoonotic organisms and relevant clinical specimens
• Identification of commonly isolated bacteria, fungi and yeasts from a wide range of clinical specimens
• Use of various automated and manual techniques in microbiology to analyse veterinary clinical specimens e.g. Vitek 2 analyser
• Review and release results through the LIMS system
• Quality control: understanding the importance and application of iQC and EQC in Microbiology; participate in iQC and EQC as directed by a senior VBMS-M
• Receipt of specimens, labelling and data entry
• Handle telephone and email queries from clients, documenting calls as required to comply with our QMS procedures
• Liaise with administrative staff and colleagues within the diagnostic service to ensure the efficient running of the service.

What You’ll Bring

• Application of basic microbiology techniques e.g., aseptic technique, specimen plating/inoculation, plate streaking
• Understanding & performing basic staining techniques
• Knowledge of main zoonotic organisms and relevant clinical specimens

It would be advantageous if you also have experience of:

• Working in a high-throughput diagnostic laboratory
• Working within a quality management system
• Validation/review and release of reports
• Analyzer operation - Vitek 2. Maintenance, running internal quality control and troubleshooting issues and errors
• Working with veterinary specimens

Why Medivet

Joining Medivet means becoming part of a nationwide community that puts care at the heart of everything we do. You'll work with a collaborative, people-first team where your expertise will be valued and your work will make a genuine impact on the lives of our colleagues and the animals they care for.