Salary & Grade: AO (Outer) £24,291 - £25,312 (pro rata)

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 post holder will act as a laboratory assistant to provide support to the scientific team providing services to patients and clients as an aid to clinical diagnosis.

Under supervision of qualified staff prepares and processes microbiological specimens in accordance with agreed local polices and standard operating procedures. Assists with laboratory reception and queries from visitors to the department. Record requests for investigations on the laboratory computer system. Monitor and maintain equipment and supplies. Contribute to a safe working environment. Participate in staff training depending on experience. Contribute to improvements in the workplace.

Location

This will be a lab-based role located at UKHSA Cambridge, Addenbrooke’s Hospital, CB2 0QQ.

You will be expected to work 18.75 hours. The Cambridge laboratory operates a 24/7 shift pattern to which you will be expected to contribute.

*Please be aware that this role can only be worked from within the UK and not overseas. Relocation expenses are not available.*

Responsibilities section:

The job holder will be required to carry out the following responsibilities, activities and duties:

• Sample receipt and handing
• Sample preparation and reagent preparation following protocols
• Clerical duties, including use of computers, and data entry, telephone enquiries
• Provide results service to wards, GPs and other hospitals
• Dealing with patients, visitors and deliveries
• Monitor and maintain appropriate stock levels, receipt of deliveries and preparation of orders
• Cleaning and disinfection of equipment and laboratory areas
• Monitoring and routine maintenance of equipment
• Perform manual, semi-automated and automated tests according to protocols
• Disposal of patient samples in accordance with relevant guidelines
• Autoclaving of waste material and patient samples (involves moderate lifting)
• Portering duties, exchange of gas cylinders (involves moderate lifting)
• Work in a safe manner in accordance with Laboratory Health and Safety policies and procedures
• Processing specimens, sub culturing of specimens, cleaning and maintenance of equipment, assisting BMS staff in analytical techniques, and use of automated equipment within Containment Level 3 laboratory

The duties/responsibilities listed above describe the post as it is at present and is not intended to be exhaustive. The Job holder is expected to accept reasonable alterations and additional tasks of a similar level that may be necessary. For the full list of responsibilities and duties, please see the full job description.

Essential Criteria

It is important through your application and Statement of Suitability of up to 1250 words that you give evidence and examples of proven experience of each of the following criteria:

Essential:

• GCSE or equivalent
• Clear communicator with good writing, data entry and telephone skills ensuring accuracy
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team
• Problem solving skills
• Able to work on own initiative, organising and prioritising own workload to set deadlines
• An ability to maintain confidentiality and trust
• Good time keeping
• Flexible approach to work
• Ability to follow written protocols

Desirable:

• Previously worked in Laboratory
• Previous work experience
• Experience of working in a health care environment
• Evidence of on-going training and development

For full job description and further details, please click Apply Now.