Genetic Technologist

Job summary

We are seeking an experienced genetic technologist who can demonstrate skilled use of genomic techniques to join the North Thames Rare Disease Laboratory Hub at Great Ormond Street Hospital.

Depending on current skills and experience, you will be assigned to one of our process based teams who carry out both rare disease and cancer sample processing and testing: NGS/NIPD; Molecular targeted; Robotic; Cytogenetic; Preparation; WGS. Rotation between teams may be arranged.

You will contribute to the smooth running of the North Thames Rare Disease Laboratory and must be able to demonstrate a high level of skill in molecular and/or cytogenetic techniques; hands on experience in an accredited diagnostic setting will be an advantage.

The genetics laboratory provides an in-house diagnostic service for cancer, molecular genetic and cytogenetic testing in accordance with the NHS England Genomic Test Directory. Cytogenetic testing is provided for both prenatal and postnatal samples using SNP microarray, karyotyping, FISH, qPCR, QFPCR and MLPA. Molecular testing includes next generation sequencing and targeted tests. We are also engaged in the development and ramping up of the NHSE Genomic Medicine Service Whole Genome Sequencing programme for our North Thames patients.

Main duties of the job

• To follow established procedures and assist in the maintenance, preparation and review of operating policies
• Comply with health and safety policies
• Assist in quality assurance procedures
• Registration of samples received into the laboratory
• Sample processing including extraction, quantitation, storage and dispatch of DNA
• Assume responsibility for a technique/area as directed by a Senior Technologist or the Lead Technologist (e.g. CF NewBorn Screening, Sample Reception). This may involve management of a small group of staff; to include the responsibility for appraisals, acting as an appointment panel member; ensuring that appropriate training is delivered; reviewing work performance and progress; work allocation and checking
• Analysis of data and preparation for authorisation by scientific staff.
• Computerised data entry of patient sample and result details

About us

GOSH is committed to recruiting the best person for the job, based solely on their ability and individual merit as measured against the criteria for the role; through a process that is fair, open, consistent and free from bias and discrimination.

We are committed to being a diverse and inclusive employer and foster a culture where all staff are valued, respected and acknowledged. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, colour, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, age, disability status or length of time spent unemployed.

We particularly welcome applications from BAME communities, people with disabilities and/or long-term health conditions and LGBT+ community members.

We have policies and procedures in place to ensure that all applicants and employees are treated fairly and consistently. We are proud to be accredited as a Disability Confident Employer, a member of Business Disability Forum and a Stonewall Diversity Champion.

We have active and Executive supported BAME, LGBT+ and Allies, Disability and Long-Term Health Conditions and Women's staff networks. Staff networks are employee-led groups formed around interests, issues and a common bond or background. Staff network members create a positive and inclusive work environment at Great Ormond Street Hospital by actively contributing to the Trust's mission, values and efforts specific to inclusion. All of our staff networks are open to any employee.