Specialist Biomedical Scientist - Microbiology

Job overview

We are looking for a Band 6 Specialist Biomedical Scientist to join the Microbiology team at Bedford Hospital. Our laboratory is equipped with an extensive range of modern platforms, including the BioMérieux BacT/Alert Virtuo, BD MGIT, DS2, BioMérieux Vidas, Biofire Torch and FilmArray, Roche Cobas 6800, BD Max, Cepheid GeneXpert, Beckman Coulter Microscan, Stratec Gemini and the Bruker MALDI‑TOF.

The service has merged with the Luton Microbiology department and now provides a comprehensive portfolio of investigations for Bedford Hospital, Luton and Dunstable Hospital, as well as local GP practices. The department is UKAS accredited to ISO 15189:2022 and is an IBMS‑approved training laboratory.

In this role, you will work as part of a dedicated Microbiology team, delivering high‑quality microbiological analysis to support accurate diagnosis and optimal patient care.

Main duties of the job

The post holder will work as a Specialist Biomedical Scientist, carrying out a range of microbiological techniques to support the clinical diagnosis of infectious diseases, in line with departmental SOPs.

They will also be expected to contribute to the delivery of training in accordance with the departmental training policy and to support Senior staff in maintaining a high‑quality, efficient and effective service.

Following appropriate training, the post holder will participate in the departmental shift rota, which includes weekend, bank‑holiday and on‑call duties. The service is progressing towards a 24/7 shift model.

Detailed job description and main responsibilities

The Job Description and Person Specification are attached to this job, please review for the full details and responsibilities.

• Work as an HCPC‑registered Specialist Biomedical Scientist, contributing to the delivery of high‑quality departmental services.
• Support the departmental Senior Biomedical Scientist in implementing and maintaining a cohesive, well‑coordinated service in collaboration with the department’s clinical lead.
• Uphold and apply the departmental quality policy, including working towards agreed quality objectives.
• Contribute to the implementation and maintenance of UKAS standards, using the established Pathology Quality Management System to support quality cycles and audits required for ISO 15189 compliance.
• Deputise for the departmental Senior Biomedical Scientist when required.