Band 4 Healthcare Science Assistant

An exciting opportunity has arisen in the Molecular Pathology Diagnostic Service (MPDS) at University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust for a suitably qualified and experienced Healthcare Scientist Associate Practitioner to join our team in a permanent role. MPDS is one of the largest solid tumour genetic-profiling centres in Europe, processing around 30,000 samples a year. The service provides a range of molecular pathology tests including protein expression, gene mutation, methylation and amplification, and chromosome translocation. The service also provides a circulating tumour DNA service for EGFR mutation analysis. Services are provided for wide range of regional and supra-regional Trusts, being a referral centre, and as such there will be an opportunity to also participate in research and development.

The department has huge expertise in various technologies including real time PCR, pyrosequencing, FISH, immunohistochemistry and next generation sequencing (NGS). The post holder will be joining a dedicated team including scientists, technicians, and molecular pathologists. The Directorate has undergone exciting changes in recent years with the on-going alignment of processes and equipment across the four hospital sites. The laboratories are UKAS accredited to ISO 15189 standards and IBMS accredited for training. We support Continuous Professional Development. Encouragement is given to attend and participate in both internal and external lectures/seminars., We are seeking a highly motivated individual, with good range of laboratory skills keen to contribute to the continued success of the service along with significant laboratory experience. Whilst previous experience of working with molecular techniques is desirable candidates with microtomy experience are encouraged to apply. Please provide details within your supporting evidence of how previous laboratory evidence will fit in with this request.

The successful candidate will be involved in supporting the Biomedical and Clinical Scientists and Genetic Technologists working in MPDS for internal users within the Trust along with external users at regional, national and international level and will have excellent organisational and communication skills and ability to use their initiative. Specific duties will include responsibility for initial IQC management and data handling/processing in multiple areas of processing.

University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust strives to have an inclusive culture where everyone feels like they belong, can thrive, knows that they add value and feels valued. We do this by developing compassionate and culturally competent leaders, being values driven in all that we do and by creating a welcoming and inclusive workplace that thrives on the diversity of our people. As such we want to attract and recruit talented individuals from all backgrounds, and for each of you to feel supported for the diversity you bring, to achieve your full potential. For those staff with a disability, including physical disability, long term health condition, mental health or neurodiverse condition, this also means being committed to making reasonable adjustments needed for you to carry out your role.