Biomedical Scientist Specialist

Job overview

We are seeking a talented and driven biomedical scientist to join our Multi-disciplinary team delivering the NHS Respiratory Metagenomics service as part of a National programme. The role offers a unique opportunity to work with colleagues across the NHS, UKHSA and Oxford Nanopore Technologies and will locally support transformative innovation in the diagnosis of infectious disease for CUH patients.

The metagenomics workflow comprises differential depletion of human nucleic acids, long read sequencing using Nanopore technology and identification of microorganisms in the sample through application of a bespoke bioinformatics pipeline. Results are then interpreted and reported via LIMS to clinicians. The successful candidate will also support ongoing laboratory projects. They will have excellent communication skills and an ability to work collaboratively across organisational boundaries.

Main duties of the job

This NHS role is based within the UKHSA Clinical Microbiology and Public Health laboratory, Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge. The successful candidate will be responsible for the performance of manual, semi-automated, specialist and fully automated laboratory investigations within a defined service accurately and efficiently, with an awareness of infection risks associated with respiratory pathogens.

They will work to a high standard in a molecular laboratory environment, minimising contamination at all stages of the workflow through good technique and thorough decontamination. The post holder is expected to perform troubleshooting independently and to understand likely points of failure. In addition, the role involves performing stock check and ensuring efficient use where appropriate.

The post holder is responsible for processing quality control material, recording and interpreting results and clear communication of findings to the clinical scientists. If corrective actions are needed, these should be carried out promptly and effectively. They will carry out work to support validation / verification when the laboratory protocol is updated and assist in preparing related documentation.

Detailed job description and main responsibilities

Please see the attached Applicant Information Pack (combined Job Description and Person Specification) for key duties and responsibilities.

Please note:- Internal applicants on permanent contracts can apply for this post as a secondment or fixed term contract. For secondments you must have the approval of your line manager before applying. If you are an internal applicant currently on a fixed term contract you are able to apply for this as a fixed term position.

This vacancy will close at midnight on 11th October 2026

Interviews are due to be held on 21st October 2026

All appointments with a start date on or after 1 October 2026 will be subject to a 12-week probationary period. This provides a structured and supportive period to help you settle into your role, with regular reviews and feedback.

As there is a 12-week probationary period, successful candidates are expected to have the Right to Work for a period of at least 6 months from the proposed start date. Immigration and Right to Work status will be discussed with successful candidates at conditional offer. CUH will not offer sponsorship to candidates that have applied for a fee waiver.

Benefits to you

At Cambridge University Hospitals, we want to do all we can to support good working days. We offer development opportunities and a wide range of benefits, including on-site leisure facilities, shopping concourse and day nurseries. Our good work programme currently includes providing reduced cost Stagecoach bus travel to and from Cambridge University Hospital site. Park and Ride bus journeys between Babraham Road and Trumpington sites are free, as is the route to and from Cambridge train station and our hospitals. We also subsidise the cost of parking on site for eligible staff.

On CUH campus, hot food is available 24/7 and at a reduced cost for colleagues. Recently we launched the first of our staff pod break spaces. Located in the Deakin Centre, we have a purpose-created colleague-only café, with free tea and coffee, a break space and private outside area for colleagues to rest, refuel and recharge. Just one of the ways we are working hard to support good working days at CUH.

CUH is committed to assisting employees in achieving a good work-life balance irrespective of role or personal circumstances. Flexible arrangements may include, but are not limited to, part-time working, job-share, term-time working and flexible start and finish times.

Please note if you would like to discuss the required hours of this role further, you should approach the contact given. In some cases, alternative working hours will be considered.

We welcome applications from the Armed Forces.

Applicant requirements

You must have appropriate UK professional registration.