Job overview

We are seeking to recruit a band 4 biological specimen assistant to support and work under the guidance and supervision of the Biological Specimen coordinator and research team.

You will be responsible for the supporting the management of our research lab rooms, obtaining, processing, storage and shipping of biological samples from patients throughout the trust who consent to participate in a wide portfolio of clinical research studies, equipment servicing, COSHH, sample trackers etc.

There is an ongoing and expanding research programme with both complex protocols, clinical trials and educational research.  This is a fantastic opportunity for those who wish to work in a clinical research environment and contribute to improving patient care.  

Working closely with the multi-disciplinary team you will support, develop and deliver research projects across the Trustwide within the Royal Surrey County Hospital NHS Foundation Trust. 

Ideally we are looking for somebody with previous laboratory and research experience looking for a new challenge and the desire to progress their career within the field of clinical research.

As the post holder will cover all research teams within the trust you will need to be organised, have a flexible approach to work and be motived to provide excellent clinical care with exceptional communication and organisational skills.

This post is for 1 year fixed term and subject to research funding.

Main duties of the job

The role of the Biological Specimen Assistant at The Royal Surrey County Hospital NHS Foundation Trust (RSFT) involves facilitating research involving human tissue being carried out at both the Royal Surrey NHS Foundation Trust and the University of Surrey. The post holder will be involved in set up for sample collection, maintaining databases, taking, preparing and storing biological samples, as well as maintaining accurate records. As a band 4 biological specimen assistant you will work under the supervision of the biological specimen coordinator, senior research staff and work collaboratively with the multidisciplinary teams to facilitate the delivery of research projects. You may also be required to assist with a caseload of trial participants enrolled on tissue collection studies. You will have the knowledge and skills to work at a high level of competence in the Research Laboratory following protocols, different trial laboratory manuals and SOPs with clearly defined lines of accountability for delegated work.

Working for our organisation

Royal Surrey is a compassionate and collaborative acute and community Trust. Recognising that our 5000 colleagues are our greatest strength, we offer a comprehensive health and wellbeing program along with a commitment to developing and advancing your career. Our diverse and welcoming Royal Surrey family will ensure you that you feel valued from your initial interview through your entire tenure.

We are clinically led and provide joined up care by bridging the gap between hospital and community services alongside regional specialist cancer care. Our main acute hospital site is in Guildford with community hospital sites at Milford, Haslemere and Cranleigh. We provide adult community health services in homes across Guildford and Waverley.

The Care Quality Commission (CQC) have given us an overall rating of Outstanding.

Royal Surrey has a strong reputation and history to build on. We are proud of our achievements and we are investing in our colleagues through our commitment to supporting professional development as well as investing more than £45 million in our physical environment and new equipment in the next few years. There has never been a better time to join us.

Although it isn't the Trusts normal practice, adverts may close early, so you are encouraged to submit an application as soon as possible.

A video about the Royal Surrey - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R96pMboIYdo