Specialist Biomedical Scientist - Microbiology

Job overview

The post holder will act as a registered Specialist Biomedical Scientist, in all sections of microbiology (parasitology, mycology and bacteriology), who scientifically analyses clinical specimens, interprets the results and generates reports to aid the clinicians in the diagnosis of disease and the presence / absence of infection or colonisation

Applicants must be HCPC registered, hold an IBMS Specialist Portfolio and have extensive post registration experience in a routine diagnostic microbiology laboratory. Please state the log book or IBMS Specialist Portfolio completion date in your application.

Applicants pending IBMS Specialist Portfolio may be considered or individuals that are currently completing a IBMS Specialist Diploma in Microbiology. If successful the post holder will have a salary of AfC Band 5 until their diploma has been successfully assessed. The post will then be paid as AfC Band 6. Please detail the status of this in your application.

We are recruiting to one 37.5 hours and one 30 hour week post. We may offer a bank role if you are unsuccessful for the substantive role.

The successful applicant must be conscientious and enthusiastic and able to work well as part of a team. They will be based in the Bacteriology department at the Royal Sussex County Hospital.

Main duties of the job

The diagnostic work of the department includes examination of urine, faeces, sputum, pus, blood and other fluids and tissues. Investigations include microscopy and culture for bacteria and fungi. In addition the department participates in mandatory surveillance schemes for MRSA and other healthcare associated infections, infection control, and handles specimens that may be involved in medico-legal proceedings.  Environmental work involves testing water and other environmental samples from a broad geographical area covering Hampshire, Surrey, Sussex and West Kent.

The departments operate at a minimum of containment Level 2, and have Containment level 3 facilities for work with those agents in Hazard Group 3.

As a Specialist Biomedical Scientist the post holder will undertake a range of complex investigations to assist in the diagnosis of disease, and monitoring of treatment.   These investigations include manual, semi-automated and automated techniques on specialised analytical equipment.

The post holder must maintain professional registration, demonstrating high professional standards of knowledge and competency by undertaking personal continuing professional development.   They may also participate in the training and development of other staff.

Working hours are 8:30-17:00 core, 11:00-19:00 late shift. Saturday, Sunday, Bank Holiday and on-call working is mandatory.

Detailed job description and main responsibilities

This role is eligible for visa sponsorship under the UK Visas & Immigration (UKVI) Skilled Worker route however sponsorship can only be provided where applicants meet the specific requirements set by UKVI, including the relevant skill and salary thresholds (£25000), and any role-specific criteria.

To communicate with and provide technical advice to biomedical scientists, Consultant Microbiologists, the Infection Control Team, the Head of Service or their deputy and other staff to foster close intersectional relationships.

To deal promptly with patient enquiries as and when they occur.  This involves liasing with patients, General Practitioners or their deputies, Consultants, Doctors, Nurses and Reference Laboratory facilities.

To maintain patient confidentiality at all times and observe the Caldicott principles.

**For further details, please see the attached Job Description**