Biomedical Scientist- Microbiology

University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust

2mo ago

Job
Full-time
Mid & Senior Level
Research & Development
Healthcare
Plymouth

AI generated summary

You must be trained in microbiology techniques, understand infectious disease pathology, perform complex analyses, prioritize urgent work, and assist in training others while following protocols and safety regulations.
You will perform complex tests, report results, prioritize urgent analyses, ensure quality assurance, train staff, assist in research, troubleshoot equipment, and maintain safety protocols.

Requirements

To be prepared to train in the use of new and emerging techniques and procedures, eg. molecular.
The post holder will demonstrate the high level of skill to perform complex manual, semi-automated and automated analytical techniques as applicable, meeting turnaround times with prompt reporting of results used in the diagnosis and treatment of disease.
The post holder will be required to provide complex information relating to test results, which may be sensitive in nature.
As a state registered Scientist with the Health Professions Council to understand the pathology of infectious disease in relationship to the results produced, with reference to the normal findings, whilst understanding their significance for patient treatment and welfare.
Will be aware of the clinical significance of results produced and using this knowledge to perform appropriate supplementary tests/investigations relevant to providing a complete report to requesting clinicians.
To prioritise work and perform urgent analyses, reporting results promptly to requesting clinicians as appropriate.
Identify abnormal or unexpected results and ensure prompt reporting, follow up and referral to medical staff, and to other reporting bodies, as required.
Following protocols, request additional tests or samples to aid in the diagnosis or treatment of disease.
To understand the principles underlying the analytical processes used in your area of work so as to maintain their operation and quality of results.
To receive request forms, and accompanying samples, to decide on the appropriate investigations by understanding and interpreting the clinical information provided, to prepare samples and reagents for analysis, inoculate culture medium and set up tests as required.
Answer telephone enquiries regarding results and other general laboratory issues e.g. giving advice on the correct conditions and sample type for a particular test request.
To operate analytical equipment within your section, within your discipline and within the department, some of which will be highly complex and require specialist training.
To be aware of faults and problems that may occur in the day-to-day use of analysers and expensive automated equipment e.g. multichannel analysers.
To participate in and understand the quality assurance programs of the department, both internal and external i.e. NEQAS (National External Quality Assurance Schemes).
To observe all departmental, Trust, national and European Health & Safety regulations relevant to the service, ensuring attendance at the annual departmental H&S update. In addition all staff must sign the departmental H&S policy to acknowledge understanding and compliance.
To continually update their knowledge and skills whilst documenting this in their Continuing Professional Development folder.
To have a basic understanding of the departments computer systems, and to be able, if required to use Microsoft Word and Excel software.
To assist senior colleagues in the maintenance of adequate stocks of reagents and consumables to ensure continuous service provision.
To follow Standard Operating Procedures if appropriate, contribute to their formulation, and propose any changes, in order to maintain the quality of the service and maximise efficiency.
To attend meetings and training courses as necessary.
To attend Statutory and Essential Update Training annually.
To assist in the process of continual quality improvement. This will include audit, corrective action, preventative action and improvement processes.
To participate in an annual appraisal and achieve any targets set at this time.
To participate in the training of Trainee Biomedical Scientists and new staff.
To assist senior staff in the supervision of Trainee Biomedical Scientists and Assistant Technical Officers.
To assist in audit carried out by the Quality Manager, internal and external agencies.
As part of a team, contribute to the continuous improvement program of the Pathology service.
Participate in clinical trials or any research & development undertaken by the department, including sample preparation, analysis and collating data as necessary.
At the direction of senior departmental staff undertake work from any source commensurate with the knowledge and skills of a state registered Biomedical Scientist.
Ensure issues and problems are resolved satisfactorily and referred through your line management structure as appropriate.
Be prepared to work on your own when necessary.
To assist in validation and verification of new tests and their write up.
To carry out other duties commensurate with the post.

Responsibilities

To be prepared to train in the use of new and emerging techniques and procedures, eg. molecular.
The post holder will demonstrate the high level of skill to perform complex manual, semi-automated and automated analytical techniques as applicable, meeting turnaround times with prompt reporting of results used in the diagnosis and treatment of disease.
The post holder will be required to provide complex information relating to test results, which may be sensitive in nature.
As a state registered Scientist with the Health Professions Council to understand the pathology of infectious disease in relationship to the results produced, with reference to the normal findings, whilst understanding their significance for patient treatment and welfare.
Will be aware of the clinical significance of results produced and using this knowledge to perform appropriate supplementary tests/investigations relevant to providing a complete report to requesting clinicians.
To prioritise work and perform urgent analyses, reporting results promptly to requesting clinicians as appropriate.
Identify abnormal or unexpected results and ensure prompt reporting, follow up and referral to medical staff, and to other reporting bodies, as required.
Following protocols, request additional tests or samples to aid in the diagnosis or treatment of disease.
To understand the principles underlying the analytical processes used in your area of work so as to maintain their operation and quality of results.
To receive request forms, and accompanying samples, to decide on the appropriate investigations by understanding and interpreting the clinical information provided, to prepare samples and reagents for analysis, inoculate culture medium and set up tests as required.
Answer telephone enquiries regarding results and other general laboratory issues e.g. giving advice on the correct conditions and sample type for a particular test request.
To operate analytical equipment within your section, within your discipline and within the department, some of which will be highly complex and require specialist training.
To be aware of faults and problems that may occur in the day-to-day use of analysers and expensive automated equipment e.g. multichannel analysers.
To participate in and understand the quality assurance programs of the department, both internal and external i.e. NEQAS (National External Quality Assurance Schemes).
To observe all departmental, Trust, national and European Health & Safety regulations relevant to the service, ensuring attendance at the annual departmental H&S update. In addition all staff must sign the departmental H&S policy to acknowledge understanding and compliance.
To continually update their knowledge and skills whilst documenting this in their Continuing Professional Development folder.
To have a basic understanding of the departments computer systems, and to be able, if required to use Microsoft Word and Excel software.
To assist senior colleagues in the maintenance of adequate stocks of reagents and consumables to ensure continuous service provision.
To follow Standard Operating Procedures if appropriate, contribute to their formulation, and propose any changes, in order to maintain the quality of the service and maximise efficiency.
To attend meetings and training courses as necessary.
To attend Statutory and Essential Update Training annually.
To assist in the process of continual quality improvement. This will include audit, corrective action, preventative action and improvement processes.
To participate in an annual appraisal and achieve any targets set at this time.
To participate in the training of Trainee Biomedical Scientists and new staff.
To assist senior staff in the supervision of Trainee Biomedical Scientists and Assistant Technical Officers.
To assist in audit carried out by the Quality Manager, internal and external agencies.
As part of a team, contribute to the continuous improvement program of the Pathology service.
Participate in clinical trials or any research & development undertaken by the department, including sample preparation, analysis and collating data as necessary.
At the direction of senior departmental staff undertake work from any source commensurate with the knowledge and skills of a state registered Biomedical Scientist.
Ensure issues and problems are resolved satisfactorily and referred through your line management structure as appropriate.
Be prepared to work on your own when necessary.
To assist in validation and verification of new tests and their write up.
To carry out other duties commensurate with the post.

FAQs

What are the primary responsibilities of a Biomedical Scientist in Microbiology?

The primary responsibilities include performing complex manual, semi-automated, and automated analytical techniques, providing complex information relating to test results, understanding the pathology of infectious disease, prioritizing work, identifying abnormal results, and participating in quality assurance programs.

Is training provided for new and emerging techniques?

Yes, the post holder will be prepared to train in the use of new and emerging techniques and procedures, such as molecular techniques.

What qualifications are required for this position?

The position requires registration as a state registered Scientist with the Health Professions Council.

How does this role involve communication with clinicians?

The Biomedical Scientist is required to report results promptly, answer telephone inquiries regarding results, and provide advice on test conditions and sample requirements to requesting clinicians.

Are there opportunities for professional development?

Yes, staff are encouraged to continually update their knowledge and skills, participate in training courses, and document their progress in a Continuing Professional Development (CPD) folder.

What is the role of a Biomedical Scientist in quality assurance?

The Biomedical Scientist participates in both internal and external quality assurance programs, observes departmental policies, and contributes to continual quality improvement processes.

Will I be involved in training new staff?

Yes, the post holder will participate in the training of Trainee Biomedical Scientists and assist in the supervision of junior staff.

Is involvement in research or clinical trials part of this job?

Yes, the role may involve participating in clinical trials or research and development, including sample preparation, analysis, and data collation as necessary.

What type of analytical equipment will I be required to operate?

The role involves operating complex analytical equipment within the department, which may include highly specialized and automated equipment.

Are there any specific health and safety requirements?

Yes, all staff must observe departmental and national Health & Safety regulations and attend annual departmental health and safety updates to ensure compliance.

What should I do if I identify an abnormal test result?

The Biomedical Scientist must ensure prompt reporting of abnormal or unexpected results, follow up, and refer them to medical staff or relevant reporting bodies as required.

Is there a structured appraisal process in place?

Yes, staff will participate in an annual appraisal and are expected to achieve the targets set during this process.

Can I expect to work independently sometimes?

Yes, the role requires the ability to work independently when necessary.

How do I contribute to maintaining laboratory efficiency?

Staff are encouraged to follow Standard Operating Procedures, contribute to their formulation, propose changes, and assist in maintaining adequate stocks of reagents and consumables.

Will I be required to assist in audits?

Yes, the Biomedical Scientist will assist in audits carried out by the Quality Manager and contribute to both internal and external auditing processes.

University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust

Providing outstanding integrated care and making a difference to people's lives #1BigTeam

Science & Healthcare

Industry

5001-10,000

Employees

1998

Founded Year

Mission & Purpose

University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust provides a range of healthcare services across Plymouth and the surrounding areas, including acute and specialist medical care. Their ultimate mission is to deliver high-quality, patient-centered care, enhance health outcomes, and ensure safety. Their purpose is to improve the well-being of the community by offering exceptional clinical services, advancing medical research, and fostering education in healthcare.