Biomedical Scientist – Specialist

Job summary

We pride ourselves as being an employer of choice, where Everyone Matters promoting equality of opportunity to actively encourage applications from everyone, including groups currently underrepresented in our workforce.

UKHSA ethos is to be an inclusive organisation for all our staff and stakeholders. To create, nurture and sustain an inclusive culture, where differences drive innovative solutions to meet the needs of our workforce and wider communities. We do this through celebrating and protecting differences by removing barriers and promoting equity and equality of opportunity for all.

The Microbiology laboratory at Cambridge current provides services to Addenbrooke’s, Royal Papworth, and the E&N Herts Hospitals, the surrounding district, and other NHS Laboratories. It has active research and epidemiological interests. The laboratory undergoes assessment against UKAS ISO 15189 standards and has strong teaching interests. Set on the outskirts of the university city of Cambridge, Addenbrooke’s Hospital is one of the top hospitals in the UK and a thriving NHS Foundation Trust. Addenbrooke’s is closely associated with leading educational providers including the University of Cambridge and is a major centre for biomedical research and education.

The department undertakes a wide range of routine and specialist microbiological and molecular investigations. It makes extensive use of automation including Qiagen platforms, Biofire, BacTec, Sedimax, MGIT, Vitek, Centaur XP, Panther, Liaison and Vidas analysers and Kiestra.

Job description

• Work as part of the laboratory team, providing a high level of microbiological analysis in order to provide patients with the highest level of diagnosis and treatment.
• Use the appropriate testing, in a timely manner, to assist the Consultant Microbiologists, and thus ensure the correct clinical diagnosis.
• Perform a range of specialist technical and scientific activities, including testing samples referred from other NHS and UKHSA laboratories.
• Follow appropriate training and orientation, and in rotation with other BMS staff, to work as the sole BMS in extended hours and weekends, undertaking urgent or other high priority work.
• Be responsible for the efficient day-to-day running of an area in a section of the laboratory, to be able to rotate through all the different sections in the laboratory and to supervise and train inexperienced BMSs, trainee BMSs or HCSSWs.
• Be expected to assist in any UKHSA co-ordinated response or activity of a national/international nature, eg. a Bioterrorism incident or a major disease outbreak, eg. SARS., H5N1 influenza etc.
• Supervise the HCSSW(s) and less experienced BMS staff in the area of responsibility and to assist in the day-to-day supervision of all other HCSSWs, trainee BMS(s) and inexperienced BMS(s) in the department.
• Deputise for Senior BMS staff where appropriate and when necessary.
• 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), including specialist reference tests as required of UKHSA Regional Laboratories.
• 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 sound knowledge and experience, to designate, on receipt, the range of tests to be performed on various samples. This involves making judgments about which automated platform to use, whether confirmation is necessary by other methods etc. and requires an understanding of both disease and the manner in which the laboratory addresses the diagnostic process.
• Using microbiological techniques, to work competently in all sections of the Laboratory, including Bacteriology, Containment Level 3, Serology, Chlamydia and Molecular Diagnostics.
• To adhere to Laboratory bench SOPs and the Laboratory policies and procedures and to work autonomously within the guidelines provided. Also to assist the Quality Manager and other Senior Staff in the preparation and ongoing review of SOPs.
• To plan and organise the work of the allocated area in the laboratory.
• To maintain a high standard of professional competence in the performance of all tests and investigations carried out in the Laboratory.
• To maintain a high standard of technical skill.
• 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 deputise for senior staff as required.
• To maintain consumable supplies within the area of responsibility.
• To ensure a sound knowledge of the laboratory IT system, to look up and enter results, book in patient data, request tests and other similar tasks.
• To demonstrate a good understanding of clinical microbiology, and to maintain scientific and specialist knowledge, commensurate with the grade of specialist BMS. Also to undergo further training as may be necessary and available.
• To be responsible for equipment and automated processors in the area of responsibility, identifying any problems. To act as first-line ‘trouble-shooter’ when and where appropriate, and to bring problems to the attention of senior staff.
• To communicate effectively with all members of the team and other health care professionals.
• To ensure the agreed quality standards of service are maintained.
• To respond accordingly to changes in laboratory protocols.
• To be able to interpret and report on laboratory tests, and to understand and be able to analyse the results, being aware of anomalies or occasions where unusual results may have an immediate impact on patient care.
• To liaise with senior BMS staff, medical and scientific staff in all matters relating to the diagnosis of infection.
• To monitor quality control results and bring any anomalies to the attention of Senior BMS staff as soon as is practicable.
• Where appropriate, to assist or lead in research and audit projects.
• To assist in the production and dissemination of laboratory reports, data and statistics, and to maintain relevant records appropriately.

Health & Safety

• To observe safety regulations and attend mandatory fire, manual handling training, etc.
• To observe the immunisation policy of the laboratory.
• To report any accidents to a senior member of staff.
• To assist the Safety Officer, especially with providing risk assessments for new techniques or when reviewing SOPs.

Quality

• To contribute to audit and QMS activity as required
• To work within the UKHSA and Laboratory policies, codes of practice and professional guidelines.

This list is not exhaustive.

Person specification

Essentia criteria:

• BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science degree or equivalent academic achievement ratified by the IBMS
• State registration with Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) as a Biomedical Scientist.
• Works well with others, is professional and calm, positive and helpful, listens, involves, respects and learns from the contribution of others
• Consistently looks to improve what they do, looks for successful tried and tested ways of working, and also seeks out innovation
• Actively develops themselves with commitment to continuing professional development and supports others to do the same
• Demonstrate extensive post-registration experience and speciality training, in accordance with IBMS guidelines or equivalent. This experience will not normally be gained until at least two years of working on rotate on in the various sections as a BMS Practitioner with the completion of a training portfolio
• Have extensive working knowledge of laboratory areas, including both practical and theoretical knowledge of the various methods employed. Also to demonstrate a sound understanding of the basic physiology, pathology and scientific principles relevant to Microbiology
• Demonstrate a sound knowledge and application of quality and Health and Safety systems, with particular reference to UKAS standards and HSE regulations
• Clear communicator with excellent writing, report writing and presentation skills; capable of constructing and delivering clear ideas and concepts concisely and accurately for diverse audiences
• Ability to analyse and interpret complex information, pre-empt and evaluate issues, and recommend and appropriate course of action to address the issues
• Problem solving skills and ability to respond to sudden unexpected demands
• Skills for project management to improve performance and make a difference by focusing on goals
• Ability to engender trust and confidence and demonstrate integrity in the provision of advice and support and ability to maintain confidentiality
• Advanced keyboard skills, use of a range of software
• Ability to work on own initiative and effectively organise own workload without supervision, working to tight and often changing timescales
• An understanding of and commitment to equality of opportunity, valuing diversity and good working relationships, both in terms of day-to-day working practices, but also in relation to management systems.

Benefits

• Learning and development tailored to your role
• An environment with flexible working options
• A culture encouraging inclusion and diversity
• A Civil Service pension with an employer contribution of 28.97%

Things you need to know

Artificial intelligence

Artificial intelligence can be a useful tool to support your application, however, all examples and statements provided must be truthful, factually accurate and taken directly from your own experience. Where plagiarism has been identified (presenting the ideas and experiences of others, or generated by artificial intelligence, as your own) applications may be withdrawn and internal candidates may be subject to disciplinary action. Please see our candidate guidance (opens in a new window) for more information on appropriate and inappropriate use.

Selection process details

Stage 1: Application & Sift

Competency-based

You will be required to complete an application form. You will be assessed on the listed 16 essential criteria, and this will be in the form of a:

• Application form (‘Employer/ Activity history’ section on the application)
• 1250 word supporting statement.

This should outline how your skills, experience, and knowledge, provide evidence of your suitability for the role, with reference to the essential criteria.

You will receive a joint score for your application form and statement. (The application form is the kind of information you would put into your C.V –please be advised you will not be able to upload your CV. Please complete the application form in as much detail as possible). Please do not email us your CV.

Healthjobs UK has a word limit of 1500, but your supporting statement must be no more than 1250 words. We will not consider any words over 1250 words.

Longlisting:

In the event of a large number of applications we will longlist into 3 piles of:

1. Meets all essential criteria
2. Meets some essential criteria
3. Meets no essential criteria

If longlisting is used, the pile meeting all essential criteria will be proceed to shortlisting.

Feedback will not be provided at this stage.

Shortlisting:

In the event of a large number of applications we will shortlist on the following essential criteria:

• State registration with Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) as a Biomedical Scientist.

If you are successful at this stage, you will progress to interview.

Feedback will not be provided at this stage.

Stage 2: Interview

Competency based

You will be invited to a single face to face interview at our Cambridge lab. In exceptional circumstances, we may be able to offer a remote interview.

Knowledge, experience, skills & abilities will be tested at interview.

Interview dates are yet to be confirmed.

Once this job has closed, the job advert will no longer be available. You may want to save a copy for your records.

Location

This role is being offered as office/lab based at Addenbrooke’s Hospital, Cambridge CB2 0QQ.

Please note hybrid working is not available for this role.

Security Clearance Level Requirement

Successful candidates must pass a basic disclosure and barring security check before they can be appointed.

Successful candidates must meet the security requirements before they can be appointed. The level of security needed is Counter-terrorist Check. If based at one of our labs, you will be required to have a Counter Terrorism Check security vetting check as a minimum. For meaningful National Security Vetting checks to be carried out individuals need to have lived in the UK for a sufficient period of time. You should normally have been resident in the United Kingdom for the last 3 years as the role requires Counter Terrorism Check (CTC) clearance. In exceptional circumstances UK residency less than the outlined periods may not necessarily bar you from gaining national security vetting and applicants should contact the Vacancy Holder/Recruiting Manager listed in the advert for further advice.

Eligibility Criteria

Open to all external applicants (anyone) from outside the Civil Service (including internal applicants).

Reasonable Adjustments

The Civil Service is committed to making sure that our selection methods are fair to everyone. To help you during the recruitment process, we will consider any reasonable adjustments that could help you. An adjustment is a change to the recruitment process or an adjustment at work. This is separate to the Disability Confident Scheme. If you need an adjustment to be made at any point during the recruitment process you should contact the recruitment team in confidence as soon as possible to discuss your needs.
You can find out more information about reasonable adjustments across the Civil Service here: Reasonable Adjustments , Civil Service Careers

International Police check

If you have spent more than 6 months abroad over the last 3 years you may need an International Police Check. This would not necessarily have to be in a single block, and it could be time accrued over that period.

Internal Fraud Check

If successful for this role as one aspect of pre-employment screening, applicant’s personal details – name, national insurance number and date of birth - will be checked against the Cabinet Office Internal Fraud Hub, and anyone included on the database will be refused employment unless they can show exceptional circumstances. Currently this is only for external candidates to the Civil Service.

Careers website

Please visit our careers site for more information UKHSA Hub , Civil Service Careers

NHS Pension

This role is offered under Agenda for Change (AFC) Terms and Conditions.

• If you are already on AFC T&Cs or accept the role on a fixed-term contract, you will be enrolled in the NHS Pension Scheme or keep your current AFC Pension.
• If you take the role on a loan or temporary promotion, you will retain your
  existing, substantive T&Cs.
• If the role is available under either AFC or Civil Service T&Cs depending on your registration, your pension scheme will align accordingly.

Salary Information

If you are successful at interview, and are moving from another government department, NHS, or Local Authority, the relevant starting salary principles for level transfers or promotions will apply. Otherwise, roles are offered at the pay scale minimum for the grade, but in exceptional circumstances there may be flexibility if you are able to demonstrate you are already in receipt of an existing, higher salary. Pay increases are through the relevant annual pay award for the role and terms.

Please be aware that the salary is based on the office location.

NHS AfC: Band 6

£39,959.00 - £48,117.00

Feedback will only be provided if you attend an interview or assessment.

Security

Successful candidates must undergo a criminal record check.Successful candidates must meet the security requirements before they can be appointed. The level of security needed is counter-terrorist check (opens in a new window).

See our vetting charter (opens in a new window).People working with government assets must complete baseline personnel security standard (opens in new window) checks.

Nationality requirements

This job is broadly open to the following groups:

• UK nationals
• nationals of the Republic of Ireland
• nationals of Commonwealth countries who have the right to work in the UK
• nationals of the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein and family members of those nationalities with settled or pre-settled status under the European Union Settlement Scheme (EUSS) (opens in a new window)
• nationals of the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein and family members of those nationalities who have made a valid application for settled or pre-settled status under the European Union Settlement Scheme (EUSS)
• individuals with limited leave to remain or indefinite leave to remain who were eligible to apply for EUSS on or before 31 December 2020
• Turkish nationals, and certain family members of Turkish nationals, who have accrued the right to work in the Civil Service

Further information on nationality requirements (opens in a new window)

Working for the Civil Service

The Civil Service Code (opens in a new window) sets out the standards of behaviour expected of civil servants.

We recruit by merit on the basis of fair and open competition, as outlined in the Civil Service Commission's recruitment principles (opens in a new window).The Civil Service embraces diversity and promotes equal opportunities. As such, we run a Disability Confident Scheme (DCS) for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum selection criteria.

Diversity and Inclusion

The Civil Service is committed to attract, retain and invest in talent wherever it is found. To learn more please see theCivil Service People Plan (opens in a new window) and the Civil Service Diversity and Inclusion Strategy (opens in a new window).

Apply and further information

Once this job has closed, the job advert will no longer be available. You may want to save a copy for your records.

Contact point for applicants

Job contact :

• Name : Nigel Poole
• Email : nigel.poole@ukhsa.gov.uk

Recruitment team

• Email : recruitment@ukhsa.gov.uk

Further information

The law requires that selection for appointment to the Civil Service is on merit on the basis of fair and open competition as outlined in the Civil Service Commission's Recruitment Principles. If you feel your application has not been treated in accordance with the Recruitment Principles, and you wish to make a complaint, in the first instance, you should
contact the UKHSA Complaints team via email at: Complaints@ukhsa.gov.uk