COMPANY OVERVIEW

The United Kingdom Health Security Agency (UKHSA) protects the nation from infectious diseases and external hazards, offering trusted advice to the government and public on outbreak management.
The Microbiology laboratory at Cambridge is the Eastern Regional Laboratory for UKHSA currently providing services to Addenbrooke’s, Papworth, Hinchingbrooke and East and North Herts Hospitals, the surrounding district and other NHS Laboratories. It has active research and epidemiological interests. The laboratory is accredited with CPA with strong teaching interests.
The department undertakes a wide range of routine and specialist microbiological and molecular investigations. It makes extensive use of automation including Qiagen platforms, BactAlert, Sedimax, MGIT, Vitek, Centaur XP, Tigris, Liaison and Vidas analysers and Kiestra.

SUMMARY

To work as part of the laboratory team, providing a high level of microbiological and serological analysis in order to provide patients with the highest level of diagnosis and treatment.

REQUIREMENTS

• HCPC registration – essential
• BMS degree or equivalent - essential
• GCSE or equivalent qualifications at C or above in English and Maths
• Ongoing training in line with HCPC/IBMS

• To process the specimens received and to undertake the related tasks in the various sections of the laboratory, leading to the reporting and interpretation of results in accordance with agreed policies and standard operating procedures (SOPs)
• To be responsible for maintenance of consumables and equipment in immediate area of work. Also, to use and maintain automated equipment following manufacturer’s guidelines and training.
• Based upon knowledge and experience, to designate the range of tests to be performed on the various samples
• Using microbiological, serological and molecular techniques, to work competently in all sections of the Laboratory, namely Serology, Virology, Molecular Diagnostics and Bacteriology
• To adhere to laboratory SOPs and to organise the work of the allocated area in the laboratory
• To be able to interpret and report on routine Microbiology tests
• To ensure important or unusual results are drawn to the attention of senior staff and/or Medical staff, and to report complaints and anomalies as soon as possible.
• To maintain consumable supplies within the area of responsibility.
• To demonstrate a good understanding of basic Microbiology, and to develop scientific knowledge, commensurate with the Band.
• To be responsible for equipment and automated processors in the area of responsibility, identifying any problems and bring them to the attention of senior staff.
• Where appropriate, to assist with research and audit projects.
• To assist in the production and dissemination of laboratory reports, data and statistics.
• To assist the senior staff in the monitoring, training and performance of less qualified staff and assist in their day-to-day supervision and organisation
• This job will involve frequent exposure to unpleasant bodily fluids including sputum, faeces, blood etc. and to Microorganisms likely to cause disease.