University Hospital Southampton NHS Trust

Laboratory Technician

The closing date is 16 April 2026

Job summary

University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust is delighted to offer a fantastic opportunity to work with us.

Please see below for detailed job description of the role.

Main duties of the job

The post holder will play a critical role in the initial stages of processing biological samples for clinicla trials both directly and through supervision of a team of dedicated technicians. They will also assist with the ongoing management of the new Anti-Microbial Laboratory.The Post holder will be responsible for:a) Participating in the recruitment of new team membersb) Processing a range of clinical specimens for screening and monitoring of clinical trials and provide accurate, timely and appropriate sample data. To perform biological sample processing following defined protocols and procedures.c) Staffing and resource planning within the UHS CRF laboratories under the direction of the Clinical Research Facility Laboratory Manager and Deputy Laboratory Manager.d) Planning and coordinating work schedules for staff, contractors and suppliers.e) Supporting the CRF Laboratory Manager, CRF study management and operational teams in assessing and planning for relevant components of new project adoption.f) Supporting the development of new projects in the Anti-Microbial Resistance laboratoryg) Resource planning within the UHS Anti-Microbial Resistance laboratory

About us

University Hospital Southampton is one of England's largest acute teaching Trusts, offering a wide range of learning and development opportunities to support your career aspirations.

Located on the south coast with an international airport and direct rail links to London, Southampton offers an ideal setting to live and work, with the New Forest, South Downs and Jurassic Coast.

We believe that using technology wisely shows strong time management and commitment to innovation. However, personalizing your recruitment application to highlight your unique skills and experiences is crucial. Relying too heavily on generic, AI-generated content instead of drawing from your own strengths and accomplishments may lead to your application being rejected if multiple candidates present identical or similar information.

At UHS we're committed to providing a flexible working environment where possible. Whether you are balancing family, study, or your wellbeing with your career, we want to support you so you can help our patients.

At UHS, we proudly champion individuality, recognizing that outstanding care is only possible with a diverse, inclusive team. We're committed to creating an anti-racist, anti-discriminatory environment where everyone feels valued, safe, and empowered to make a meaningful impact in our communities. We welcome applicants of all backgrounds, identities, and experiences to join us in building a healthcare community where everyone can belong, thrive, and contribute.

Details

Date posted

10 April 2026

Pay scheme

Agenda for change

Band

Band 5

Salary

£32,073 to £39,043 a year per annum per annum pro rata

Contract

Permanent

Working pattern

Full-time, Part-time

Reference number

188-THQ02042026

Job locations

Southampton General Hospital

Tremona Road

Southampton

SO16 6YD


Job description

Job responsibilities

Under the direction of the CRF Laboratory Manager, manage and deliver training and 1:1 coaching to band 4 and band 3 laboratory staff members for development purposes.

Taking responsibility for ensuring samples are processed and shipped according to GCP and IATA and study specific standards/ protocols.

Determines own work within established parameters, referring to manager when necessary, planning & prioritising own workload making adjustments to plans according to unforeseen circumstances

To work flexible shifts, in conjunction with CRF team members, to provide 24 hour cover for the laboratory service as required.

To receive and communicate complex issues to scientific and medical staff and suppliers when quality control procedures indicate loss of performance of laboratory instruments or methods

Job description

Job responsibilities

Under the direction of the CRF Laboratory Manager, manage and deliver training and 1:1 coaching to band 4 and band 3 laboratory staff members for development purposes.

Taking responsibility for ensuring samples are processed and shipped according to GCP and IATA and study specific standards/ protocols.

Determines own work within established parameters, referring to manager when necessary, planning & prioritising own workload making adjustments to plans according to unforeseen circumstances

To work flexible shifts, in conjunction with CRF team members, to provide 24 hour cover for the laboratory service as required.

To receive and communicate complex issues to scientific and medical staff and suppliers when quality control procedures indicate loss of performance of laboratory instruments or methods

Person Specification

Qualifications, knowledge and experience

Essential

  • Educated to degree level within a science-related field.
  • GCP qualification
  • IATA qualification
  • GCSE level A to C or equivalent in at least two from Maths, English and Science
  • 3-A levels including science
  • Previous laboratory experience
  • Experience of biological sample processing techniques
  • Experience of working within research
  • Experience of processing in material safety cabinets
  • Experience in training and managing individuals within a scientific laboratory setting
  • Good written and verbal communication
  • Ability to follow set procedures and laboratory protocols meticulously.
  • Knowledge of sample tracking databases such as Freezerworks.
  • Able to work late shifts as required and able to work under reduced supervision when working out-of-hours

Desirable

  • Experience in PBMC processing
  • Experience in working with Category II level pathogenic samples
  • Experience in supporting laboratory management, planning workflows, ordering equipment and consumables
  • Experience in sample receipt, logging and shipping as per IATA requirements

Skills

Essential

  • Attention to detail
  • Collaborative approach
  • Communication
  • General IT skills
  • Taking the initiative
  • Teamwork
  • Time management

Trust Values

Essential

  • Patients First
  • Always Improving
  • Working Together
Person Specification

Qualifications, knowledge and experience

Essential

  • Educated to degree level within a science-related field.
  • GCP qualification
  • IATA qualification
  • GCSE level A to C or equivalent in at least two from Maths, English and Science
  • 3-A levels including science
  • Previous laboratory experience
  • Experience of biological sample processing techniques
  • Experience of working within research
  • Experience of processing in material safety cabinets
  • Experience in training and managing individuals within a scientific laboratory setting
  • Good written and verbal communication
  • Ability to follow set procedures and laboratory protocols meticulously.
  • Knowledge of sample tracking databases such as Freezerworks.
  • Able to work late shifts as required and able to work under reduced supervision when working out-of-hours

Desirable

  • Experience in PBMC processing
  • Experience in working with Category II level pathogenic samples
  • Experience in supporting laboratory management, planning workflows, ordering equipment and consumables
  • Experience in sample receipt, logging and shipping as per IATA requirements

Skills

Essential

  • Attention to detail
  • Collaborative approach
  • Communication
  • General IT skills
  • Taking the initiative
  • Teamwork
  • Time management

Trust Values

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).

UK Registration

Applicants must have current UK professional registration. For further information please see NHS Careers website (opens in a new window).

Additional information

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).

UK Registration

Applicants must have current UK professional registration. For further information please see NHS Careers website (opens in a new window).

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)


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)


Employer contact details

For questions about the job, contact:

Translational Scientist Laboratory Manager

Gavin Babbage

gavin.babbage@uhs.nhs.uk

Details

Date posted

10 April 2026

Pay scheme

Agenda for change

Band

Band 5

Salary

£32,073 to £39,043 a year per annum per annum pro rata

Contract

Permanent

Working pattern

Full-time, Part-time

Reference number

188-THQ02042026

Job locations

Southampton General Hospital

Tremona Road

Southampton

SO16 6YD


Supporting documents

Privacy notice

University Hospital Southampton NHS Trust's privacy notice (opens in a new tab)