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Job overview
We are seeking an HCPC registered Band 5 Biomedical Scientist to join our Clinical Biochemistry team. The laboratory provides a high throughput, fully automated diagnostic service using advanced immunoassay, photometric platforms, with Specialist Chemistry investigations utilising LCMS, HPLC and ICPMS technologies.
The successful candidate will demonstrate strong scientific, technical and analytical skills, work across all laboratory sections, contribute to a quality driven diagnostic service and participate in a 24/7 rota. Clinical Chemistry experience is essential; trainee applications will not be considered.
This is an exciting opportunity to join the service during a period of significant development as Pathology moves into a purpose built, state of the art laboratory designed to support innovation and growth.
The department is ISO15189 accredited and holds HCPC training status for IBMS portfolios. The UHP Pathology Service is part of a Peninsula-wide network focused on standardising testing, improving efficiency and patient care. Derriford Hospital is a Major Trauma Centre providing specialist Oncology, Cardiothoracic and Women’s Services, supported by extensive point-of-care testing.
We promote staff development and offer excellent training and career progression opportunities.
Preference is given to internal Trust and Priority/At Risk candidates, including NHS At Risk staff across Devon, who meet the experience and criteria outlined in the Specification.
Main duties of the job
Biomedical scientist candidates will have HCPC registration. The candidate will have demonstrable knowledge and experience of Clinical Biochemistry and working with highly automated systems.
Candidates will be expected to participate in the 24/7 rota.
Candidates will be expected to process biological samples including blood, urine, faeces, CSF and other fluids taking personal responsibility for the quality and authorisation of results, which are used in the diagnosis, treatment and management of the disease.
Candidates will demonstrate a high level of skill to perform complex manual, semi automated and automated analytical techniques as applicable.
Demonstrable experience of quality management is also desirable to monitor and maintain the highest standards of quality across the ISO 15189:2012 accredited clinical chemistry service.
The department has full HCPC training status for pre and post registration IBMS portfolios and full ISO 15189 accreditation.
Please see the Job Description for further information on the main duties of the job.
Detailed job description and main responsibilities
The post holder will perform a key role in providing analysis of clinical specimens for a wide range of diagnostic to aid pathological diagnosis of the patients we serve. Involving the use of automated instruments that utilise a range of analytical technologies including spectrophotometry, colorimetry, ion selective electrodes, and immunoassay, together with manual and specialised techniques utilising chromatography and mass spectrometry. This role requires an individual that works with accuracy and precision whilst having excellent organisational skills.
Act in a supportive role to section leads and deputies to ensure the smooth day to day running of the department and rotate through all clinical chemistry sections. Full participation in the 24/7 rota is a requirement of the post holder, this includes weekend, evening, and night duties, which require a flexible approach to the hours of employment, previous experience in out of hours working is desired.
For further details please see attached JD & PS
Applicant requirements
You must have appropriate UK professional registration.
The postholder will have access to vulnerable people in the course of their normal duties and as such this post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 (Amendment) (England and Wales) Order 2020 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service to check for any previous criminal convictions.
Person specification
Qualifications
Essential
- Educated to BSc (Hons) in Biomedical Sciences or a degree acceptable to the Institute of Biomedical Sciences and the Health and Care Professions Council. The latter will require a Post Graduate Certificate, a Post Graduate Diploma or an MSc in Biomedical Sciences. Or recognised equivalent qualification.
- State registration with Health and Council Professions Council as a Biomedical Scientist
- Associate of the Institute of Biomedical Sciences (AIBMS)
Desirable
- ECDL or equivalent
Aptitude and Abilities
Essential
- Excellent communication skills, being able to deal with patients and staff at all levels of the organisation with tact and diplomacy
- Communicate with company representatives and staff from external organisations including other NHS Trusts
Knowledge and Experience
Essential
- Ability to demonstrate and apply proven knowledge of the Pathology of disease in one or more disciplines within DCL
- Demonstrable experience in a Haematology, Clinical Chemistry or Immunology Laboratory within a Department which handles a total workload of 200000 patient requests per annum
Desirable
- Demonstrable experience with specialist techniques within the discipline the post holder is expected to work
- Proven post qualification demonstrable experience
- Participation in the Institute of Biomedical Sciences CPD scheme
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Applying for this NHS job
This advert is for Biomedical Scientist with University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust in Biochemistry Department, Derriford Combined Laboratory. It is listed as a Band 5 Health science services role. The advertised salary is £32,073 - £39,043 Per Annum (Sessional Fees Apply). The contract type is Permanent: Full time, compulsory 24/7 rota. The application deadline is 26 Aug 2026.
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