Biomedical Scientist – Virology

Job Introduction

The United Kingdom Health Security Agency (UKHSA) protects the nation from infectious diseases and external hazards, offering trusted advice to the government and public on outbreak management.

Main Responsibilities

Responsibilities

• To work competently in all sections of the Virology Laboratory, and oversee Virological and serological techniques.
• Perform and designate a range of testing on various samples.
• To be aware of anomalous results, recognising these when they occur and reporting them appropriately.
• Process the clinical specimens received and undertake the related tasks in the various sections of the laboratory, undertaking reading, reporting and the interpretation of results in accordance with agreed policies and standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• To organise the work of the allocated area in the laboratory and to keep up to date with SOP changes.
• Interpret and report on routine and specialist virology laboratory tests, in accordance with laboratory protocols and commensurate with grade.
• Assist in the production and dissemination of laboratory reports, data and statistics, including the issuing of preliminary results by phone or computer, and being aware of priorities of reports.
• Process, report, and interpret NEQAS samples in accordance with SOPs.
• Ensure that work on all samples and cultures is performed at the appropriate Containment level.

The Ideal Candidate

Essential Criteria:

• State registered Biomedical Scientist.
• Demonstrate 3 years + post-registration experience in Virology, with a completed training portfolio.
• Experience of a Laboratory Information System (LIM).
• A good understanding of basic theoretical and practical microbiology.
• Ability to work unsupervised in all areas of a Virology laboratory.

This placement is Monday – Friday, however the successful hire will be expected to work 1:6 weekends, to support the team.

This role has an initial end date of 31.03.25, with further possibility of extension. 

Full Address: Southmead Hospital, Southmead Road, Westbury-On-Trym, Bristol BS10 5NB.