Biomedical Scientist

Job overview

We are seeking a motivated Biomedical Scientist to join our specialist Neuropathology Laboratory, contributing to the provision of a comprehensive diagnostic neuropathology and muscle pathology service for Bristol NHS Foundation Trust and a range of external organisations, including other healthcare trusts, coronial services, and criminal investigation agencies.

The post holder will rotate through the various sections of the laboratory, including biopsy and autopsy histology, immunohistochemistry, and enzyme histochemistry. The role is based on a standard working pattern of 9:00am to 5:15pm, although some flexibility may occasionally be required to meet service demands.

Neuropathology is part of the Cellular Pathology Department, and the successful candidate may increasingly be required to support work within Histology as service needs evolve. Full training will be provided to develop the competencies and skills required for the role.

Main duties of the job

The post holder will contribute to the delivery of a specialist diagnostic neuropathology and muscle pathology service. Working as part of a multidisciplinary team, the successful candidate will rotate through the various sections of the laboratory, including biopsy and autopsy histology, immunohistochemistry, enzyme histochemistry and cytology.

Key responsibilities include processing, embedding, sectioning and staining tissue specimens; performing specialist laboratory techniques on surgical, autopsy and muscle biopsy samples; supporting urgent intraoperative diagnostic services; and maintaining high standards of quality, accuracy and patient safety.

The post holder will be responsible for maintaining accurate laboratory records, complying with quality management and health and safety requirements, and participating in service improvement activities. They will also work closely with biomedical scientists, pathologists and other healthcare professionals to ensure the delivery of an efficient, high-quality diagnostic service.

Detailed job description and main responsibilities

For a more detailed job description, main responsibilities, and Person Specification, please refer to the job description document attached to this vacancy.

1. Scientific / technical:

• To participate in the reception, preparation, documentation and subsequent safe disposal of all specimens
• To adhere to and assist in ensuring ongoing accuracy of established protocols and procedures ensuring that: o There is consistency in the preparation of laboratory specimens o Equipment safety and maintenance schedules are followed o Health and safety standards are met o Appropriate records are maintained (in both electronic and written formats)
• To assist in investigation into laboratory incidents and other aspects of ensuring ongoing quality such as auditing following appropriate training
• To ensure completion of appropriate training and maintenance of competency, escalating any training needs
• To rotate through all sections of the department, participating in the duties
• In addition, the post-holder may be required to provide occasional technical support for some departmental research activities

2. Service support:

• To assist in implementing both internal QC and external QA activities
• To assist in the day-to-day maintenance of the department’s facilities, to include: o Preparation of reagents o Filing of specimens and slides o Cleaning & preparation of glassware and other lab materials o Equipment maintenance o Stock control
• To assist in training and supervising more junior staff within this Department
• Communications: The post-holder is required to communicate biomedical information of varying degrees of complexity with medical, scientific and secretarial staff within the Cellular Pathology Department, and in other departments both within and outside of the Bristol NHS Foundation Trust. This involves providing and receiving information both verbally and in writing 4. Other duties: The post-holder may be required to undertake additional duties commensurate with the grade of post, and in the event of staff absence, may be required to cover for both higher and subordinate grades within the Cellular Pathology Department

Applicant requirements

You must have appropriate UK professional registration.