Advanced Biomedical Scientist

The department of Microbiology and Virology is made up of several specialist sections as shown in the organisation chart and the jobholder will contribute to the provision of an effective clinical diagnostic testing and advice service to the Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, General Practitioners and other legitimate users of the service.

This will involve assisting an Operational Site Manager with operational continuity by supervising, organising, and directing Biomedical Scientists and Healthcare Science Practitioners (HCSPs), maintaining work standards and day to day performance

Leading and participating in the practical work in the designated section and imparting specialist knowledge in clinical technical situations is also required.

To provide specialist scientific knowledge and to work as a member of the team to assess, plan and contribute to the provision of a specialised service.

To supervise and participate in the practical work of the section including reception, sorting, numbering, booking in and analysis of samples, including interpretation of clinical details and deciding which investigations are most appropriate, and any associated recording or data entry.

To ensure appropriate laboratory diagnostic tests are performed and results validated using judgement and expertise.

To interpret laboratory results and apply these to ensure individual patient needs are met.

To participate in the section Quality Assurance programmes, investigate situations and instigate remedial action and to report such events to the Laboratory Management Team.

To support the Laboratory Management Team in maintaining accreditation status (UKAS, HTA, MHRA, HSE)

There may be a requirement for Advanced BMS grades to rotate through different sections.

To work in compliance with local health and safety rules to ensure a safe working environment. To adhere to department and Trust Health and Safety policies (including COSHH, Risk assessments and Standard Operating Procedures) and to report any non-compliances to the Department Health and Safety Officer.

To ensure the section has adequate supplies of consumables and that equipment is in good working order.

Practical and theoretical training and supervision of BMS and HCSP staff, Students, Junior Doctors and other visitors.

To ensure effective communication within the department and liaise with external colleagues such as the Public Health Field Epidemiologists and National Surveillance Programme Data Analysts

The Advanced BMS will participate in the department out of hours rotas. They will be asked to provide cover for Saturday, Sunday and Bank Holiday duties in the department as required.