Band 8a - Haemoglobinpathy Lead Scientist, UK NEQAS

We are seeking an enthusiastic, versatile individual and experienced HCPC registered Healthcare Scientist with a strong interest and track record in the laboratory diagnosis of inherited red cell disorders to join the UK NEQAS Haematology scientific team.

Reporting directly to the Scheme Director, you will be responsible for co-ordinating the UK NEQAS Haemoglobinopathy and Red Cell Enzymopathy programmes ensuring that the UK NEQAS Haemoglobinopathy service is delivered in a timely, cost-effective and professional manner., The post-holder will coordinate the UK NEQAS Haematology haemoglobinopathy and red cell enzymopathy programmes, which includes the implementation and development of new techniques and pilot initiatives.

This role presents a chance for candidates to highlight their leadership, analytical, and communication skills, alongside their understanding of laboratory techniques and the principles of quality management.

While prior experience in staff management and team leadership is beneficial, we invite applicants who are eager to develop these skills and demonstrate their potential.

Effective planning and organisational skills for managing multiple work streams are essential, and a self-motivated, adaptable mindset will enable you to excel in our dynamic environment. We value those who enjoy exchanging ideas, influencing policy, and are ready to embrace change.

UK National External Quality Assessment Service (NEQAS) is an impartial, independent, and self-financing expert centre for the provision of external quality assessment (EQA) for all aspects of Haematology and Blood Transfusion laboratory testing. UK NEQAS Haematology and Blood Transfusion deliver a diverse and extensive programme of EQA services and advice to over 1400 participating laboratories in the UK and worldwide.

The Haematology and Blood Transfusion services are operated by West Hertfordshire Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, and the unit is based in a bespoke unit designed and built specifically for our use in the Croxley Business Park in Watford.

The unit consists of approximately 30 people, which includes 12 Haematology staff, 6 Blood Transfusion staff, and the remainder who work in the joint Receipt & Dispatch (R&D), Administration, and IT teams., With a new hospital planned for Watford and work underway to update theatres at St Albans City Hospital, this is an exciting time to join us.

We are building on the success of our award-winning virtual hospital and re-imaging models of care, working ever more closely with partners and making the most of advances in digital healthcare.

Staff wellbeing and development are a priority at our Trust, as is the role of innovation in improving clinical care, outcomes and patient experience.

Our vision is Excellent patient care, together and our values are to be empowered, compassionate, professional and inclusive. They capture an important balance across what we must all do as individuals and to support others.

At West Herts we offer a variety of flexible working options as we recognise the importance of a good work life balance and the ability to work flexibly. https://www.westhertshospitals.nhs.uk/flexibleworking