The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust

NGS Technical Lead

The closing date is 03 June 2025

Job summary

Are you ready to shape the future of cancer diagnostics through cutting-edge genomic technologies? If you're a passionate and experienced in Next Generation Sequencing within molecular diagnostics, we have an exceptional opportunity for you!

We are looking for an NGS Technical Lead to join the Clinical Genomics department at The Royal Marsden. In this pivotal role, you will drive the innovation, development, and delivery of high-quality genomic testing services within our state-of-the-art, ISO 15189-accredited laboratory.

Join the Pioneers at Royal Marsden's Clinical Genomics Lab

The Clinical Genomics laboratory at the prestigious Royal Marsden is at the forefront of innovation and research in the North Thames Genomic Laboratory Hub. As one of the seven national Genomic Laboratory Hubs in England, we're leading the way in Cancer Genomic testing.

Main duties of the job

The NGS Technical Lead will undertake technical, analytical and administrative duties required to support the scientific teams in the provision of an effective and high-quality molecular diagnostics service to patients. This will require specialist theoretical and practical knowledge. They will be responsible for carrying out analytical molecular diagnostics investigations.

The post holder will exercise a high level of autonomy and decision-making to oversee complex technical activities, contribute to the development of new molecular diagnostic techniques, service improvements. They will lead on ensuring compliance with laboratory accreditation standards and actively contribute to the laboratory's quality management system. The post holder will be expected to assist in training of new staff members and visitors as well as to contribute to IT development and data management relating to the technical aspects of the molecular service. Additionally, the post holder will directly line-manage and develop junior technical staff, oversee laboratory workflows, and contribute to long-term strategic planning

About us

The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust is a world-leading cancer centre. Our role is to offer our patients the best cancer care available anywhere in the world, and to continue to make a global contribution to finding better ways of diagnosing and treating cancer. We employ over 4,500 staff in a diverse range of careers including nursing, medical, science, radiography, pharmacy, occupational therapy, finance and administrative services. We have two hospitals - one in Chelsea, London, and one in Sutton, Surrey - as well as a Medical Daycare Unit in Kingston Hospital.

At The Royal Marsden, we deal with cancer every day, so we understand how valuable life is. When people entrust their lives to us, they have the right to demand the very best. That's why the pursuit of excellence lies at the heart of everything we do.

At the heart of the hospital is our dedicated team. We offer a stimulating and dynamic working environment, a wide range of staff benefits, learning and development opportunities and clear career pathways. There are opportunities to work flexibly across a range of areas and specialities and we welcome flexible working requests from point of hire to support employees work life balance. We are looking for employees who aspire to excellence, share our values and can play a crucial role in our on-going achievements.

Details

Date posted

20 May 2025

Pay scheme

Agenda for change

Band

Band 7

Salary

£51,883 to £58,544 a year Per Annum

Contract

Permanent

Working pattern

Full-time

Reference number

282-SA522

Job locations

The Royal Marsden Sutton

Sutton

SM2 5PT


Job description

Job responsibilities

For more information please refer to the job description and personal specification.

To be responsible for own work and that of junior members of staff under the direction of senior scientific staff. This will include all aspects of the clinical scientific & technical work, staff, equipment and quality system.

Oversee and take responsibility for the technical aspects of the Molecular Diagnostics laboratory NGS service

Participate in the validation, verification, and implementation of new technologies and techniques.

Provide specialist technical expertise and troubleshooting support to staff and ensure quality control measures are met

What Awaits You:

Innovation in Genomics: Lead the technical development of our NGS-based testing portfoliofrom validation and implementation of new genomic technologies to troubleshooting and workflow optimisation.

Excellence in Laboratory Practice: Take ownership of quality assurance processes, contribute to UKAS accreditation efforts, and uphold the highest standards of clinical governance and laboratory safety.

Collaboration and Leadership: Work closely with clinical scientists, operational managers, and technical staff. Provide technical supervision, mentorship and training to junior staff, and play a key role in service planning and development.

What We're Looking For:

A BSc in Biological Sciences, Genetics, or a related field (or equivalent)

Substantial post-graduate experience in molecular diagnostics with a strong focus on NGS

Proven experience in quality management systems, equipment maintenance, and compliance with ISO 15189 standards

A track record of staff supervision, IT systems use, and robust data handling skills

Why Choose Us:

At Royal Marsden's Clinical Genomics Department, you'll be part of a dynamic team committed to pushing the boundaries of cancer diagnostics. We offer an inspiring and collaborative work environment where you'll have the chance to excel in your field and make a significant difference in the lives of cancer patients.

Apply Now and Help Shape the Future of Cancer Diagnostics!

Don't miss this opportunity to be a part of something extraordinary. Join us in making a real impact in the world of Clinical Genomics and take the next step in your career with Royal Marsden. Apply now!

Job description

Job responsibilities

For more information please refer to the job description and personal specification.

To be responsible for own work and that of junior members of staff under the direction of senior scientific staff. This will include all aspects of the clinical scientific & technical work, staff, equipment and quality system.

Oversee and take responsibility for the technical aspects of the Molecular Diagnostics laboratory NGS service

Participate in the validation, verification, and implementation of new technologies and techniques.

Provide specialist technical expertise and troubleshooting support to staff and ensure quality control measures are met

What Awaits You:

Innovation in Genomics: Lead the technical development of our NGS-based testing portfoliofrom validation and implementation of new genomic technologies to troubleshooting and workflow optimisation.

Excellence in Laboratory Practice: Take ownership of quality assurance processes, contribute to UKAS accreditation efforts, and uphold the highest standards of clinical governance and laboratory safety.

Collaboration and Leadership: Work closely with clinical scientists, operational managers, and technical staff. Provide technical supervision, mentorship and training to junior staff, and play a key role in service planning and development.

What We're Looking For:

A BSc in Biological Sciences, Genetics, or a related field (or equivalent)

Substantial post-graduate experience in molecular diagnostics with a strong focus on NGS

Proven experience in quality management systems, equipment maintenance, and compliance with ISO 15189 standards

A track record of staff supervision, IT systems use, and robust data handling skills

Why Choose Us:

At Royal Marsden's Clinical Genomics Department, you'll be part of a dynamic team committed to pushing the boundaries of cancer diagnostics. We offer an inspiring and collaborative work environment where you'll have the chance to excel in your field and make a significant difference in the lives of cancer patients.

Apply Now and Help Shape the Future of Cancer Diagnostics!

Don't miss this opportunity to be a part of something extraordinary. Join us in making a real impact in the world of Clinical Genomics and take the next step in your career with Royal Marsden. Apply now!

Person Specification

Qualifications/Education

Essential

  • BSc degree in Biological Sciences/Genetics
  • Post graduate qualification in relevant scientific subject or equivalent experience

Knowledge and skills

Essential

  • Significant post-graduate experience in a molecular diagnostics laboratory
  • In-depth knowledge of molecular diagnostic techniques (e.g., PCR, NGS, ddPCR).
  • Experience in quality management, including participation in UKAS accreditation processes.
  • Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to troubleshoot technical issues.
  • Competence in using laboratory information management systems and molecular genetics software.

Desirable

  • Proven leadership experience, including line management and staff development.
  • Experience in implementing new molecular diagnostic techniques
  • Experience in research and development within a diagnostic laboratory setting.

Personal Qualities and Skills

Essential

  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to perform complex scientific calculations and data analysis
  • Good judgement, analytical, perceptive, eye for detail
  • Able to take specific responsibilities in an area of defined specialist knowledge
  • Evidence of personal development
  • Commitment to team working, flexible approach to work

Desirable

  • Awareness of organisational and logistical issues, able to work to deadlines
Person Specification

Qualifications/Education

Essential

  • BSc degree in Biological Sciences/Genetics
  • Post graduate qualification in relevant scientific subject or equivalent experience

Knowledge and skills

Essential

  • Significant post-graduate experience in a molecular diagnostics laboratory
  • In-depth knowledge of molecular diagnostic techniques (e.g., PCR, NGS, ddPCR).
  • Experience in quality management, including participation in UKAS accreditation processes.
  • Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to troubleshoot technical issues.
  • Competence in using laboratory information management systems and molecular genetics software.

Desirable

  • Proven leadership experience, including line management and staff development.
  • Experience in implementing new molecular diagnostic techniques
  • Experience in research and development within a diagnostic laboratory setting.

Personal Qualities and Skills

Essential

  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to perform complex scientific calculations and data analysis
  • Good judgement, analytical, perceptive, eye for detail
  • Able to take specific responsibilities in an area of defined specialist knowledge
  • Evidence of personal development
  • Commitment to team working, flexible approach to work

Desirable

  • Awareness of organisational and logistical issues, able to work to deadlines

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.

Employer details

Employer name

The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust

Address

The Royal Marsden Sutton

Sutton

SM2 5PT


Employer's website

https://www.royalmarsden.nhs.uk/working-royal-marsden (Opens in a new tab)

Employer details

Employer name

The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust

Address

The Royal Marsden Sutton

Sutton

SM2 5PT


Employer's website

https://www.royalmarsden.nhs.uk/working-royal-marsden (Opens in a new tab)

Employer contact details

For questions about the job, contact:

Operations Manager

Emma Poyastro-Pearson

emma.poyastro-pearson@rmh.nhs.uk

Details

Date posted

20 May 2025

Pay scheme

Agenda for change

Band

Band 7

Salary

£51,883 to £58,544 a year Per Annum

Contract

Permanent

Working pattern

Full-time

Reference number

282-SA522

Job locations

The Royal Marsden Sutton

Sutton

SM2 5PT


Supporting documents

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