Detailed job description and main responsibilities

To be prepared to train in the use of new and emerging techniques and procedures, eg. molecular.

The post holder will demonstrate the high level of skill to perform complex manual, semi-automated and automated analytical techniques as applicable, meeting turnaround times with prompt reporting of results used in the diagnosis and treatment of disease.

The post holder will be required to provide complex information relating to test results, which may be sensitive in nature.

As a state registered Scientist with the Health Professions Council to understand the pathology of infectious disease in relationship to the results produced, with reference to the normal findings, whilst understanding their significance for patient treatment and welfare.

Will be aware of the clinical significance of results produced and using this knowledge to perform appropriate supplementary tests/investigations relevant to providing a complete report to requesting clinicians.

To prioritise work and perform urgent analyses, reporting results promptly to requesting clinicians as appropriate.

Identify abnormal or unexpected results and ensure prompt reporting, follow up and referral to medical staff, and to other reporting bodies, as required.

Following protocols, request additional tests or samples to aid in the diagnosis or treatment of disease.

To understand the principles underlying the analytical processes used in your area of work so as to maintain their operation and quality of results.

To receive request forms, and accompanying samples, to decide on the appropriate investigations by understanding and interpreting the clinical information provided, to prepare samples and reagents for analysis, inoculate culture medium and set up tests as required.

Answer telephone enquiries regarding results and other general laboratory issues e.g. giving advice on the correct conditions and sample type for a particular test request.

To operate analytical equipment within your section, within your discipline and within the department, some of which will be highly complex and require specialist training.

To be aware of faults and problems that may occur in the day-to-day use of analysers and expensive automated equipment e.g. multichannel analysers.

To participate in and understand the quality assurance programs of the department, both internal and external i.e. NEQAS (National External Quality Assurance Schemes).

To observe all departmental, Trust, national and European Health & Safety regulations relevant to the service, ensuring attendance at the annual departmental H&S update. In addition all staff must sign the departmental H&S policy to acknowledge understanding and compliance.

To continually update their knowledge and skills whilst documenting this in their Continuing Professional Development folder.

To have a basic understanding of the department’s computer systems, and to be able, if required to use Microsoft Word and Excel software.

To assist senior colleagues in the maintenance of adequate stocks of reagents and consumables to ensure continuous service provision.

To follow Standard Operating Procedures if appropriate, contribute to their formulation, and propose any changes, in order to maintain the quality of the service and maximise efficiency.

To attend meetings and training courses as necessary.

To attend Statutory and Essential Update Training annually.

To assist in the process of continual quality improvement. This will include audit, corrective action, preventative action and improvement processes.

To participate in an annual appraisal and achieve any targets set at this time.

To participate in the training of Trainee Biomedical Scientists and new staff.

To assist senior staff in the supervision of Trainee Biomedical Scientists and Assistant Technical Officers.

To assist in audit carried out by the Quality Manager, internal and external agencies.

As part of a team, contribute to the continuous improvement program of the Pathology service.

Participate in clinical trials or any research & development undertaken by the department, including sample preparation, analysis and collating data as necessary.

At the direction of senior departmental staff undertake work from any source commensurate with the knowledge and skills of a state registered Biomedical Scientist.

Ensure issues and problems are resolved satisfactorily and referred through your line management structure as appropriate.

Be prepared to work on your own when necessary.

To assist in validation and verification of new tests and their write up.

To carry out other duties commensurate with the post.