Senior Clinical Scientist: POCT Rapid Respiratory Service

Job overview

We are seeking an enthusiastic and dynamic HCPC-registered Clinical Scientist to join our award-winning team at Berkshire and Surrey Pathology Services (BSPS) within the innovative Samba Rapid Respiratory Service (SRRS). This role is ideal for candidates who have completed or are nearing completion of a relevant STP programme.

BSPS is a collaborative network of NHS laboratories serving five acute NHS Trusts across Berkshire and Surrey. The Point of Care Testing (POCT) team, led by a Consultant Clinical Scientist, is a multi-disciplinary group of Biomedical Scientists, associate practitioners, and support staff, known for its supportive and flexible team ethos.

Our SRRS is a pioneering POCT respiratory virus testing service, delivering rapid diagnostics across acute, community, and private settings. The team is actively involved in national research and validation studies, and works closely with NHS England and manufacturers on device evaluation and early adoption.

This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to a forward-thinking service at the forefront of POCT innovation, with excellent prospects for professional development and involvement in impactful clinical research.

Main duties of the job

This post supports the delivery of rapid respiratory PCR testing via ‘hot labs’ located near Emergency Departments across our six acute hospital sites, enabling timely triage and improved ED flow. The role also supports community-based and elective hospital testing to enhance resource use and patient experience.

The post holder will work closely with the Principal Clinical Scientist and Consultant Clinical Scientist Lead, engaging with clinical teams across our partner Trusts and liaising with colleagues in BSPS Virology to ensure consistent and effective service delivery.

Responsibilities include contributing to the operational delivery of the Samba Rapid Respiratory Service (SRRS), ensuring quality, safety, and efficiency in testing workflows. The role also involves supporting training, participating in research and validation projects, and helping implement new technologies.

We welcome candidates from all pathology disciplines relevant to POCT. While prior experience in POCT or respiratory testing is beneficial, it is not essential—full training will be provided. The successful candidate will be supported in connecting with BSPS specialties, including Molecular, Microbiology, Virology, and Blood Sciences, to further develop professionally.

Detailed job description and main responsibilities

For a full list of responsibilities and tasks associated with this role, please refer to the job description/person specification attached to this vacancy.

For an informal discussion or to arrange a visit please contact Fiona Riddoch, Clinical Scientist on [email protected] (07384 878 553) or Katy Heaney, Consultant Specialty Lead, [email protected] (07557 865 291).