Assistant Healthcare Scientist

The Assistant Healthcare Scientist/Healthcare Scientist Support Worker will work within the Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIRL) Reference Unit, supporting the delivery of UKHSA's national reference laboratory service for bacterial sexually transmitted infections. Working under supervision and following appropriate training and competency assessment, the post holder will undertake routine laboratory support activities in accordance with standard operating procedures, contributing to the safe, efficient and timely delivery of microbiology and molecular diagnostic services. The role includes receiving, preparing and processing clinical specimens, undertaking routine laboratory procedures, maintaining laboratory equipment and consumables, recording laboratory information using the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS), and supporting specimen storage and archiving. The post holder will assist in maintaining laboratory quality, health and safety standards, participate in routine quality assurance activities, and contribute to the day-to-day running of the laboratory. Working as part of a multidisciplinary team, the successful candidate will develop their technical knowledge and practical skills through structured training while supporting the delivery of a high-quality national reference and surveillance service for bacterial sexually transmitted infections.,

• Assist in the delivery of UKHSA's national reference and surveillance services for bacterial sexually transmitted infections by undertaking routine laboratory support activities in accordance with standard operating procedures.
• Receive, prepare, process and track clinical specimens, maintaining accurate laboratory records using the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS).
• Perform routine microbiological, molecular and serological laboratory procedures following appropriate training, competency assessment and supervision.
• Support the day-to-day operation of the laboratory, including stock management, preparation of reagents and consumables, equipment monitoring, specimen archiving and waste disposal.
• Contribute to maintaining laboratory quality, health and safety standards by following UKHSA policies, quality management procedures and accreditation requirements.
• Work collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary team, responding to routine enquiries and providing support to colleagues to ensure an efficient laboratory service.
• Participate in mandatory training, competency assessments and continuous development to enhance technical knowledge and laboratory skills.
• Undertake other duties appropriate to the grade to support service delivery, business continuity and the effective operation of the laboratory
  
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UKHSA ethos is to be an inclusive organisation for all our staff and stakeholders. To create, nurture and sustain an inclusive culture, where differences drive innovative solutions to meet the needs of our workforce and wider communities. We do this through celebrating and protecting differences by removing barriers and promoting equity and equality of opportunity for all.