Clinical Scientist in Genomics

Job overview

An exciting opportunity has arisen to work within the Clinical Genetics & Genomics Laboratory (CGGL), based at the Royal Brompton Hospital, part of Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust. The Royal Brompton & Harefield NHS hospitals are the largest heart & lung centres in the UK and among the largest in Europe. We are a partnership of two specialist hospitals which are known throughout the world for our expertise, standard of care and research success.

The CGGL is a genomics diagnostic lab, providing state-of-the-art specialist cardiac & respiratory NGS-based genetic testing as part of the London South Genomics Laboratory Hub (LS GLH).

We are looking for a motivated Clinical Scientist, with extensive experience in human molecular genetic diagnostics, excellent interpersonal skills, to join our group.  The successful candidate will have the ability to critically analyse and interpret scientific data, and compile comprehensive, integrated genomic reports.

Applicants should have good computing skills, be capable of working under pressure to tight deadlines, and be able to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team. They should have good organisational skills, be able to work methodically with great attention to detail & have a strong interest in driving and improving the quality of diagnostic services. The CGGL is a UKAS-accredited medical laboratory, currently performing over 6000 diagnostic tests per annum and is also actively involved in research and teaching.

Main duties of the job

• Maintain close links with clinical staff and when required, represent the service at multidisciplinary meetings within the Trust.
• Present research and audit reports at local, regional and national scientific and clinical meetings.
• Provide interpretation of the results of highly complex diagnostic investigations.
• Provide a high level of expertise in molecular analysis for detection of genetic disease/abnormalities and in the interpretation of complex test results using international guidelines.
• Prepare and check standard and complex abnormal reports for authorisation by senior Clinical Scientists.
• Participate in internal and external quality control procedures.
• Undertake audits as directed by the Quality Manager.
• Assist during UKAS accreditation visits.
• Collaborate with other members of CGGL staff to ensure that technical work is performed in an accurate, timely and efficient manner to a standard that enables the highest quality of service to patients.
• Familiar with the laboratory information management systems.
• Conduct data entry and analysis always ensuring the validity and reliability of data.
• Undertake appropriate research and development of analytical procedures.
• Participate in internal research seminars/meetings including journal club.
• Maintain a portfolio of professional achievements & CPD activities.
• Maintain core competencies and maintain the required standards of competences when undertaking duties.
• Participate in annual performance review.

Detailed job description and main responsibilities

In conjunction with senior laboratory staff, the post-holder will undertake the scientific duties and responsibilities of a clinical scientist in the provision of a comprehensive, modern, high quality diagnostic clinical genetics service at RBHT. This will involve delivering a range of specialist molecular diagnostic tests for the diagnosis of inherited cardiovascular and respiratory diseases. The post holder will be expected to draft and authorize molecular genetic diagnostic reports in line with the services provided by the department. The post holder will also provide clinical and scientific advice to other health professionals including senior medical staff, on the selection, performance and interpretation of highly complex molecular genetic investigations. The post holder will participate in research and development and clinical audit where necessary.