Healthcare Science Associate Practitioner | University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust

The WGLS is a new integrated genomics testing service formed from the amalgamation of Wessex Regional Genetics Laboratory, now WGLS (Salisbury), and Molecular Pathology which is based at University Hospital Southampton (UHS). The WGLS is part of the Central & South Genomic Laboratory Hub. We provide an in-house diagnostic service for cancer and rare disease testing in accordance with the NHS England Genomic Test Directory and are also engaged in the development and ramping up of the NHSE Genomic Medicine Service Whole Genome Sequencing programme for our Wessex patients
To work in a section of the laboratory as required, covering both wet and dry work

To despatch samples to other laboratories as required

To perform automated, semi-automated and manual laboratory investigations.

To operate complex electronic equipment according to laboratory and manufacturers guidelines.

To prepare reagents and ensure they are stored and used according to manufacturer's guidelines and laboratory procedures.

Processing clinical specimens, these may include a range of swabs, body fluids, tissues and blood samples. Setting up a range of routine automated and manual laboratory tests.

Record temperatures and relevant quality control data.

To communicate problems to scientific staff when quality control procedures indicate loss of performance of laboratory instruments or methods

Under supervision, carry out a range of tasks within a section that may involve planning and organising workload.

Using computers for data entry and report generation.

Perform duties according to laboratory policies and standard operating procedures.

Maintain laboratory stocks in each section. Safely use and maintain a range of laboratory equipment including centrifuges, analysers, microscopes and incubators.

To participate in the training of new, or less experienced Support Workers in the section. To participate in equipment and methodology validation, if appropriate, to the section.

Perform audits under the supervision of the audit officers and perform appropriate quality control when required.

To be adaptable to change and to work flexibly in all sections of the laboratory as required.

Attend courses and maintain appropriate levels of training as necessary.

To maintain effective communications with line managers and to ensure any technical failures, anomalies or unusual findings are brought to the attention of senior staff and are documented appropriately.

An exciting opportunity has arisen in the Wessex Genomics Laboratory Service (WGLS) in Salisbury for a full time Healthcare Science Practitioner/Genomic Technologist to join our dynamic team dedicated to providing high quality genomic testing to improve patient outcomes. We are seeking an enthusiastic, self-motivated individuals with previous experience of working in a diagnostic laboratory.

As one of the largest acute teaching Trusts in England, we offer learning and development opportunities to help you achieve the career you aspire to.

All non-clinical roles may involve a mixture of on site and remote working, Specific details and flexible working options can be discussed as part of the interview process. UHS employees are able to access a range of NHS discounts, are entitled to a minimum of 35 days paid holiday (pro rata), and we offer a generous pension scheme.

Southampton is an attractive place to live and work situated on the south coast, with an international airport and direct trains to London. The New Forest National Park and beaches of the Jurassic coast are also right on our doorstep. The city offers living costs 20% lower than London and 14 schools rated outstanding by Ofsted.

Please note this job role will be based at Salisbury NHS Foundation Trust, Wiltshire, SP2 8BJ

Due to the nature of this role and service, this role is on-site and the hours are as advertised. Please talk to us at interview about the flexibility you need, and we will explore what's possible for the role and service.