Specialist Biomedical Scientist - Molecular Pathology

Job overview

As part of a small team, the post holder will organise and perform the routine testing within the Laboratory and have a good understanding of current methodology which includes Immunohistochemistry, real-time PCR

• The role includes independently pre-screening and interpreting/reporting Fluorescence In–Situ Hybridisation testing for breast cancer patients, the results of some of these will be directly issued to clinicians.       •      Supervision and training of staff involved in the Molecular Pathology service is required and possession of specialist knowledge in the science of Cellular Sciences is a pre-requisite.
• The post holder will be expected to have a sound knowledge and experience of pathological and histological diagnostic techniques gained by theoretical study and by direct experience in the laboratory. Experience in molecular techniques is an advantage.

The post-holder will be required to maintain and develop further knowledge and skills in routine histology and molecular techniques and assist with the routine work as dictated by the demands of the service.   •      Within the changing landscape of Molecular Pathology,  the post holder will be required to participate in developmental and validation work for new methodologies

• The post holder will be expected to maintain and extend their knowledge via CPD and attendance at appropriate short courses in order to maintain registration as a BMS with the Health Care Professions Council.

Main duties of the job

• Independently performs complex specialist techniques (such as FISH and PCR) on tissue samples, ensuring the quality of the test through use of interpretive skills and using the correct controls to validate the tests
• Performs independent interpretation of FISH testing results and directly produces reports on negative test results to Clinicians in order to direct them on treatment options.
• Independently assess FISH cases and escalate complex interpretive decisions to more senior staff as appropriate for reporting.
• Performs troubleshooting and preventative maintenance on highly complex and expensive automated systems ensuring appropriate records are kept and liaises with service engineers where appropriate.
• Leads a team to ensure that the quality of laboratory processes is to an appropriate high standard, and that such results are timely and accurate

Please note that this role may often attract a high level of applications. Please note this role may close earlier than the original closing date so please ensure you submit your application as soon as possible.

Detailed job description and main responsibilities

We’ve provided all the details you need about this role in the job description and person specification. Please take a moment to review the criteria in the person specification and share specific examples in your application that demonstrate how you meet these requirements. Please also check your application for errors/omissions prior to submission.

Please note that appointment to this post will be subject to a satisfactory Disclosure and Barring Service Check at Standard Level. (Enhanced level now includes regulated checks against vulnerable adults and children).

All successful applicants will be required to complete our corporate trust induction once a start date had been agreed.

Working for Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust/NKPS you will be part of the Kent and Medway Pathology Network (South 8 Network - Kent and Medway Pathology Network is made up of seven laboratories across three pathology services in four acute Trusts. For more information on the network please see the attached document.