Laboratory Technician

Job responsibilities

To receive research samples (blood, sputum, saliva, urine, etc for processing. To perform biological sample processing following defined protocols and procedures. To perform PBMC processing. To perform differential cell counting To log and label samples for storage or transport. To despatch samples to other laboratories or clinical sites as required. To maintain laboratory standards in accordance with current and future regulatory guidelines. To pack and transport samples following current SOPs defining sample processing procedures, packaging and documentation. Inspect temperature logs for monitoring of fridges, freezers and incubators and take corrective action when required as detailed in the relevant SOP. Maintain laboratory equipment. To plan & prioritise own workload making adjustments to plans according to unforeseen circumstances. To maximise productivity by making the best use of available resources. To receive, store and maintain stocks of laboratory reagents and consumables. To perform any other appropriate duties as delegated by the sputum Laboratory Manager. Use of sample tracking software To participate in the evaluation of new equipment, techniques and protocols. To assist in any research and development activities as required. To handle work arising from NHS, private, commercial and clinical trials organisations as required in accordance with agreed protocols and quality standards. This will include the following:o Receiving specimens and entering patient and technical work details into a log book or computer database and collating own and others data.o Assisting with the preparation of specimens prior to processing. To assist with specimen collection and processing of samples arising from NHS, private, commercial and clinical trials organisations according to current Standard Operating Procedures. To handle and analyse a range of biological material including but not limited to sputum, saliva, blood, urine, faeces and body tissues. To perform differential cell counting on a variety of respiratory samples. 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 guidelines and laboratory procedures To handle chemicals according to COSHH regulations. To collect laboratory and confidential waste and dispatch for safe disposal. To take responsibility for the safe use of laboratory equipment used personally and by other team members/students/trainees. To handle a range of tissue samples and other infectious material according to category II containment procedures. To deal with spillage of samples/chemicals in a safe and appropriate manner when necessary. To resolve and respond to study specific queries. To handle telephone enquiries and communicate results to other departments and outside agencies in accordance with laboratory protocols and in compliance with Data Protection Act. To enter test results and predefined comments into the laboratory computer systems. To communicate problems to scientific staff when quality control procedures indicate loss of performance of laboratory instruments or methods. To communicate with colleagues, other healthcare professionals and staff from external organisations and deal politely with all service users. To communicate stock levels to appropriate personnel to facilitate reordering. To participate in section meetings and feedback information/ suggestions for improvements in local policies and procedures. To report adverse clinical incidents to scientific staff. To assist with tours of the Clinical Research and respiratory laboratories. Undertakes Statutory and Mandatory training as determined by the Trust. Perform all other training as required for clinical trial legal and protocol compliance.

Person Specification

Qualifications

Essential

• GCSE level A to C or equivalent in at least two from Maths, English and Science
• 3 A levels including science or equivalent experience

Desirable

• GCP qualification
• High Scientific University degree
• IATA qualification

Previous or relevant experience necessary

Essential

• Previous laboratory experience
• Experience of working within a research laboratory
• Experience of biological sample processing techniques
• Experience of working in a class II MSC with hazardous biological materials

Desirable

• Experience in training laboratory staff
• Experience in sputum processing and differential cell counting
• Experience in PBMC processing

Aptitudes and skills required

Essential

• Good written and verbal communication Ability to follow set procedures and laboratory protocols meticulously.
• Knowledge of sample tracking databases such as freezer works.
• Experience in sample receipt, logging and shipping.

Desirable

• Knowledge of biological sample and hazardous waste disposal
• Training in use of liquid nitrogen
• Knowledge of Excel based databases
• Knowledge of infection control procedures
• Experience with the use of microscope and cell counting equipment

Values and behaviours

Essential

• Patients First
• Always Improving
• Working Together

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 (Opens in a new tab).

From 6 April 2017, skilled worker applicants, applying for entry clearance into the UK, have had to present a criminal record certificate from each country they have resided continuously or cumulatively for 12 months or more in the past 10 years. Adult dependants (over 18 years old) are also subject to this requirement. Guidance can be found here Criminal records checks for overseas applicants (Opens in a new tab).

Employer details

Employer name

University Hospital Southampton NHS Trust

Address

Southampton General Hospital

Tremona Road

Southampton

SO16 6YD

Employer's website

https://www.uhs.nhs.uk/home.aspx (Opens in a new tab)