Automation Specialist | The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust

We are seeking an enthusiastic Automation Specialist to oversee and optimise the performance of automated systems, including the Automata system, Qi agility, and Hamilton robotic liquid handlers. The post-holder will be responsible for the validation and implementation of new automated processes, ensuring efficiency and accuracy in molecular diagnostic testing. The Automation Specialist will oversee the performance, maintenance and optimisation of the newly implemented Automata system and departmental robotic liquids handlers, including Qi agility and Hamilton. The Automation specialist will also be responsible for the development, validation, and implementation of new automated processes in the Clinical Genomics laboratory. This role will ensure high standards of automation equipment operation, contributing to the efficiency and accuracy of molecular diagnostic tests. The Automation specialist will also play a key role in integrating laboratory instruments with IT systems and managing the introduction of new automated technologies. The post holder will undertake technical, analytical and administrative duties required to support the scientific teams in the provision of an effective and high-quality molecular diagnostics service to patients. This will require detailed theoretical and practical knowledge, with particular focus on Automation, Liquid handling instrumentation. The range of tests available will be in continuous development and the post-holder will be required to contribute to the validation and verification of new automated techniques for molecular diagnostics in haematological and solid tumours. They will collaborate and plan complex activities with other members of the team to achieve an effective and reliable service.,

• Implement and validate new automation methods and technologies, ensuring they meet diagnostic application standards
• Evaluate new automation innovations and technologies for their potential transfer into clinical practice, with a focus on horizon scanning for emerging tools and methodologies.
• Facilitate the implementation of new automated instruments and equipment, improving existing processes and ensure smooth transitions to clinical applications
• Take day to day responsibility for the quality of technical and analytical work produced.
• Monitor and maintain all automation equipment, including the Automata system, Hamilton robotic liquid handlers and Qiagility
  
  The ideal candidate will have a relevant BSc degree in Biological Sciences/Genetics with MSc or significant equivalent experience in laboratory automation. Proven experience in programming robotic liquid handlers and troubleshooting automation systems is essential.
In addition, the post holder will play a vital role in supporting quality assurance activities, staff training, and compliance with laboratory accreditation standards, including ISO 15189. Good communication and team-working skills are essential, as is the ability to manage multiple projects and contribute to continuous service improvement, Disability Confident About Disability Confident A Disability Confident employer will generally offer an interview to any applicant that declares they have a disability and meets the minimum criteria for the job as defined by the employer. It is important to note that in certain recruitment situations such as high-volume, seasonal and high-peak times, the employer may wish to limit the overall numbers of interviews offered to both disabled people and non-disabled people. For more details please go to Disability Confident.

The Royal Marsden has a vital role in championing change and improvement in cancer care through research, innovation, education, and leading-edge practice. We are incredibly proud of our international reputation for pushing the boundaries and for our ground-breaking work, ensuring our patients receive the very best and latest in cancer treatment and care. As part of the ongoing development of our services, an exciting opportunity has arisen for an Automation Specialist to join the Clinical Genomics department. The Clinical Genomics laboratory at The Royal Marsden is part of the North Thames Genomic Laboratory Hub (NT GLH), one of seven national hubs offering cancer genomic testing in England. The department is located in the Centre for Molecular Pathology, a state-of-the-art facility that integrates translational science with molecular diagnostics. The laboratory is recognised for its leading role in molecular diagnostics of cancer in Europe, supporting personalised cancer treatment and clinical trials., The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust is a world-leading cancer centre. Our role is to offer our patients the best cancer care available anywhere in the world, and to continue to make a global contribution to finding better ways of diagnosing and treating cancer. We employ over 4,500 staff in a diverse range of careers including nursing, medical, science, radiography, pharmacy, occupational therapy, finance and administrative services. We have two hospitals - one in Chelsea, London, and one in Sutton, Surrey - as well as a Medical Day-care Unit in Kingston Hospital. At The Royal Marsden, we deal with cancer every day, so we understand how valuable life is. When people entrust their lives to us, they have the right to demand the very best. That's why the pursuit of excellence lies at the heart of everything we do. At the heart of the hospital is our dedicated team. We offer a stimulating and dynamic working environment, a wide range of staff benefits, learning and development opportunities and clear career pathways. There are opportunities to work flexibly across a range of areas and specialities and we welcome flexible working requests from point of hire to support employees work life balance. We are looking for employees who aspire to excellence, share our values and can play a crucial role in our on-going achievements.