Associate Practitioner

Job Summary The Welsh Transplantation Laboratory has a vacancy for an enthusiastic, well‑organised and self‑motivated individual to join our team as an Associate Practitioner. We are a busy Histocompatibility and Immunogenetics Laboratory based within the headquarters of the Welsh Blood Service in Talbot Green, approximately 12 miles from Cardiff. The laboratory offers a wide range of laboratory testing to support patient care in Wales, including kidney, pancreas and haemopoietic stem cell transplantation, platelet immunology, and disease association testing services. We are looking for an individual with a keen interest in laboratory science who can work flexibly within a team of laboratory staff. You will perform a range of laboratory testing including sample receipt and data entry; preparation and processing of samples; and performance of laboratory assays. You will rotate through the laboratory sections during your employment, gaining experience in a variety of different laboratory techniques, including genetic tests (next‑generation sequencing, RT‑PCR) and serological (Luminex‑based HLA antibody testing) methodologies. The laboratory has an excellent record in training and development, making it an ideal environment for individuals who wish to progress their career within the field of Healthcare Science. The ability to speak Welsh is desirable for this role; Welsh and/or English speakers are equally welcome to apply. Main Duties of the Job The post holder will work autonomously in accordance with defined policies and procedures referring to HCPC Registered Scientists as required. The post holder will be responsible for managing and prioritising their own workload according to agreed parameters. The post holder will assist in the preparation, processing, testing and analysis of patient and donor samples. Receive, check sample suitability, validate identifiers and log samples into laboratory database, assigning tests required according to agreed profiles. Prepare genomic DNA, serum and lymphocytes from blood and other sources for use in laboratory assays. Provide Human Leucocyte Antigen (HLA) typing services for clinical diagnosis of patient and donor samples using a range of DNA‑based techniques (e.g., RT‑PCR, NGS). Perform clinical HLA‑antibody screening and definition testing of patient samples using Luminex assays. Prepare and dispense laboratory chemicals and reagents in accordance with laboratory usage requirements. Interpret and assign individual test results in accordance with agreed criteria. Assist in maintaining a programme of cleaning, decontamination and basic preventative maintenance of equipment and completing appropriate records. Use specialist scientific equipment requiring a high degree of concentration, coordination, accuracy and precision (e.g., DNA sequencers, Luminex analyser). About Us Here at Velindre University NHS Trust we are extremely proud of the specialist services we provide across the whole of Wales in our cutting‑edge Velindre Cancer Centre and our award‑winning Welsh Blood Service, as well as the expertise of our corporate functions that bring the two divisions together. We are also fortunate to host the NHS Wales Shared Services Partnership and Health Technology Wales and have developed strong partnership working with these expert services. Formed in 1994, the Trust has a dedicated workforce that continuously strives to provide the key principles of prudent healthcare through a wide array of roles. We play a vital role in the communities we support and have ambitious plans for the future to continue to improve the services we deliver. We strive to maintain our core values in everything we do by being accountable, bold, caring and dynamic, and ensuring the best possible care for our patients and donors. Details Date posted: 21 November 2025 Pay scheme: Agenda for Change Band: Band 4 Salary: £27,898 – £30,615 per annum Contract: Permanent Working pattern: Full‑time Reference number: 120‑ACS022‑1125 Job location: Welsh Blood Service, Ely Valley Road, Pontyclun, CF72 9WB Person Specification Essential HNC/HND/Foundation Degree in a relevant scientific subject Knowledge of the principles of Good Laboratory Practice Knowledge of the Code of Conduct for Healthcare Support Workers in Wales Desirable Understanding of the role of H&I laboratories in supporting transplantation services Understanding of the impact of working in a regulated environment Welsh speaker Experience Previous teamwork and experience working to set procedures Previous laboratory experience Previous work requiring prolonged and intense concentration Previous experience in a pathology laboratory Previous experience of working in an NHS environment Aptitude and abilities Computer literate, standard keyboard skills Good organisational skills, able to work to deadlines, use initiative, work with precision and accuracy Good communication skills, able to work as part of a large team, adaptable and flexible approach to work, good self‑motivator, enthusiastic style, able to concentrate for long periods 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. Certificate of Sponsorship Applications from job seekers who require current Skilled Worker sponsorship to work in the UK are welcome and will be considered alongside all other applications. For further information visit the UK Visas and Immigration website. Employer Details Employer name: Welsh Blood Service Address: Ely Valley Road, Pontyclun, CF72 9WB Employer's website: https://www.welsh-blood.org.uk/ #J-18808-Ljbffr