Molecular Microbiologist

Diagnostic Laboratory Associate

We are seeking a highly skilled Diagnostic Laboratory Associate to support our expanding diagnostic work in the department. The ideal candidate will have previous experience as a Medical Laboratory Assistant, Laboratory Technician or equivalent and have worked in a molecular diagnostic or academic laboratory. An eye for detail and working in an organised manner is crucial to this role. Previous experience in diagnostics and sequencing would be advantageous.

The department provides an extensive range of investigations to support the specialist patient population of this tertiary referral paediatric hospital, and also provides a specialist molecular service to other hospitals. This is an excellent opportunity to work as part of a very experienced and dedicated team to gain extra skills and knowledge of paediatric microbiology and sequencing, including NGS (Next Generation Sequencing). This is a vibrant, progressive, well-equipped, and an ISO 15189 accredited laboratory.

Main duties of the job

1. Participation in technical laboratory work in accordance with requirements of assigned laboratory section.
2. Registration of samples received into the laboratory and entering patient request data into IT systems.
3. Sample processing including nucleic acid extraction, DNA/RNA quantitation, sequencing library preparation, gel electrophoresis, Sanger sequencing set up, real-time PCR set-up.
4. Operation and maintenance of automated equipment for nucleic acid extraction, sequencing library preparation, and sequencing.
5. Good understanding of the potential risks when handling infectious samples.
6. Safe handling of CSF, blood, urine, faeces, organs, other body tissue and hazardous materials according to departmental and Trust protocol.

Job responsibilities

The full job description provides an overview of the key tasks and responsibilities of the role, and the person specification outlines the qualifications, skills, experience and knowledge required. For both documents please view the attachment/s below.

Person Specification

• Two A Levels to include a science subject.
• Foundation degree in biomedical science, HNC/HND in science, or equivalent.
• Evidence of CPD.
• Biological Science or Genetics degree (or equivalent).

Experience/Knowledge

• Highly developed pipetting skills.
• Experience of nucleic acid extraction.
• Experience of PCR.
• Experience processing biological specimens.
• Basic knowledge regarding molecular microbiology techniques (e.g. PCR, sequencing).
• Experience working with laboratory equipment.
• Knowledge of Health and Safety legislation.
• Knowledge of Data Protection Act.
• Experience of quantitation of nucleic acid (e.g. Tapestation, Qubit, nanodrop).
• Experience of Sanger Sequencing.
• Experience of NGS library preparation and sequencing (e.g. NextSeq, MiniSeq, Nanopore).
• Previous experience of working in an NHS laboratory.
• Experience in culture-based techniques.
• Previous participation in UKAS ISO:15189 laboratory accreditation.
• Experience with laboratory information management systems.

Skills/Abilities

• Careful, meticulous attention to detail.
• Organised approach to work and time management.
• Able to communicate effectively both verbally, by email and by appropriate documentation.
• Able to work under supervision and as part of a team.
• Able to follow and give instructions clearly.
• Able to train others.

Disclosure and Barring Service Check

This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.

Salary

£31,944 to £34,937 a year per annum inclusive

Contract

Permanent

Working pattern

Full-time

Reference number

271-CCS-6705551

Job locations

Great Ormond Street Hospital NHS Foundation Trust

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