Detailed job description and main responsibilities

MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Ensure that documentation is maintained to the Unit standard (including electronic records).
• To demonstrate awareness and compliance with Moorfields policies, procedures, guidelines and standards. To work towards promoting this to others.
• Identify and report clinical and non-clinical risks so that appropriate action can be taken in accordance with the risk management policy.
• To plan and prioritise the scientific workload of the section on a day-to-day basis.
• To provide a comprehensive and appropriate laboratory service to patients and staff.
• To possess highly developed, advanced specialist scientific skills, and use these to drive innovation and improvement of the unit.
• To ensure that the laboratory standard operational and health and safety policies are understood and carried out by all staff, always.
• Responsible for the maintenance, condition, quality control and record keeping of stains, instruments, solutions and equipment associated with the unit.
• Leading on and monitoring all aspects of Quality Management and Audit within the Unit.
• To be proactive in the generation and updating of all Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and associated documentation.
• To assist in the implementation and development of new and existing techniques and the validation steps commensurate with those methodologies.
• Assist in the implementation, development and evaluation of new and existing techniques.
• Responsible for the maintenance and calibration of equipment, particularly when working autonomously.
• Adaptation of methodologies and working practices as required, in both foreseen and unforeseen circumstances.
• Maintain, update and develop personal and professional knowledge and skills, at first under supervision, enabling standards to be monitored constantly and improved where necessary.
• Record and report incidents/complaints involving staff, specimens and visitors in accordance with local policies and may lead in any investigations as required.
• To provide scientific advice and act as a resource both internally and externally.
• To maintain an awareness of current developments especially with regard to any special areas of responsibility.
• Maintain, update and develop personal and professional knowledge and skills by participating in the Appraisal process and Objective setting.
• Be familiar with, and follow all, core policies such as sickness reporting, annual leave requesting, health and safety and so forth.
• Be familiar with the Health and Safety policies of Moorfields and the unit and ensure that they are followed to maintain a safe working environment for all employees and visitors.
• Participate fully as a team member, sharing knowledge and information and supporting colleagues, including support staff to promote a cohesive laboratory team and the achievement of team objectives.
• Deputise for the line Manager as required.
• The supervision of all grades of scientific and support staff in the section.
• Undertake the appraisal of other members of staff through the Appraisal process as required.
• Responsible for the conduct of all staff being supervised in respect to their timekeeping, behaviour and safety. Report any problems to the line manager, should they arise.
• Must develop and improve scientific expertise, which may be via Continuing Professional Development (CPD) within an appraisal and/or competency programme.
• Maintain a portfolio of relevant developments achieved.
• To participate in the organisation of scientific teaching programmes.
• Design and deliver training to staff within the unit - both junior and research staff.
• Undertake suitable training and development programmes to successfully acquire core competencies and thereafter maintain the required standards of competence when undertaking duties.
• Maintain your Registration with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).

Responsibility- Information Resources

• Undertake relevant training for electronic information systems in place (and under development) and be familiar and proficient with the use of the information technology systems within the unit.
• To have an active e-mail account.
• To ensure that information technology is not used for nefarious activities, in line with Moorfields policies.
• Ensure the continued compliance with both National and International Information Governance requirements and legislation.
• Maintain patient records to the standard always demanded by the DEP and to ensure that RCPath guidance is adhered to always.

Responsibility- Patient / Client Care

• To enter patient information and test results onto the laboratory information system safely and reliably.
• To always maintain patient confidentiality, ensuring appropriate Governance is observed.
• To always handle and care for patient samples with the upmost respect and dignity.
• To deal with requests from Patients, Clinicians and others with courtesy and politeness, regardless of the situation.

Responsibility- Research and development 

• Participate in the collection of audit and research data and undertake evaluation as required.
• To validate and verify equipment, methods and protocols within specialist section(s).
• To undertake a supervisory role and help to lead research projects within the unit.
• To deliver research histology to the standard demanded by the DEP.
• To deal with research staff with professionalism and courtesy, regardless of the situation.
• Work independently, as a lead specialist in any one area and may manage a team.

OTHER DUTIES:

• Be familiar with, and ensure compliance to, the Trust’s Health & Safety and Infection Control policies.
• Maintain a safe working environment for self, all other staff members, patients, and their relatives.
• Keep areas clean and free from clutter.
• Report all adverse incidents via trust Safeguard reporting system.
• Keep up to date with all mandatory training.
• Attend regular staff meetings in the Pathology department.
• To be an active and engaged member of the team, helping wherever needed with good teamwork and bearing.