Laboratory Andrology Practitioner

Job description

Job responsibilities

For the full Person Specification and more information regarding the main responsibilities of this role, please refer to the attached Job Description.

Clinical Responsibilities

You will demonstrate specialist expertise in assessing semen samples to diagnose fertility problems. This includes preparing samples for fertility treatments and long-term storage, ensuring adherence to departmental procedures at all times. Your role will involve attending sperm surgical retrieval procedures, where you will process samples in the laboratory and complete the cryopreservation process. It is essential that you follow strict protocols for processing semen and sperm samples, thereby supporting the laboratory's comprehensive service.

Additionally, you will be responsible for the safe use and maintenance of laboratory equipment, including microscopes, centrifuges, and flow hoods. This includes ensuring that all equipment is calibrated and functioning properly, contributing to accurate and reliable test results. You will also oversee the liquid nitrogen storage facility, ensuring it meets the highest safety standards. Participation in the laboratory's out-of-hours on-call rota for equipment monitoring will further demonstrate your commitment to the smooth operation of the lab.

Communication and Collaboration

Effective communication is vital in this role. You will liaise with multidisciplinary team members to provide efficient fertility assessment and preservation services. Clear and compassionate communication with patients is crucial, especially when conveying complex information regarding the assessment, storage, and use of semen samples. You will develop your communication skills to support patients and their families, particularly during distressing situations.

Educational Responsibilities

Your commitment to education will also play a significant role in your position. You will participate in mandatory training sessions and contribute to the teaching and training of junior staff and students. By observing and providing guidance, you will help cultivate a skilled and knowledgeable team. Additionally, attending relevant courses and educational meetings will enhance your professional development and keep you updated on advancements in the field of andrology.

Service Improvement and Quality Assurance

In alignment with our commitment to quality, you will ensure delivery against key performance indicators and participate in laboratory quality assurance monitoring. You will analyse service-level activity reports and contribute to setting targets for improvement. Your role will involve assisting the Laboratory Manager in considering demand and capacity for outpatient activities and contributing to pathway mapping as required. By participating in the investigation of patient complaints, you will help identify trends and implement necessary remedial actions.

Management and Organisational Responsibilities

As a Laboratory Andrologist, you will supervise junior staff and manage essential departmental administration, including clinical records, laboratory maintenance, and audit processes. You will maintain data records using computerised systems and produce timely reports on patient visits for GPs and referring consultants. Ensuring that patient records are accurate and filed in compliance with relevant guidelines will be a critical part of your role.

In conclusion, your position as a Laboratory Andrologist will encompass a blend of clinical, educational, and administrative duties that directly contribute to enhancing the reproductive health of our patients. By adhering to the Trusts policies for safety, efficiency, and patient care, you will play a key role in delivering high-quality services in a collaborative environment. Join us at Reproductive Medicine Unit Lab at UCLH and make a meaningful impact in the field of reproductive health.

At the Reproductive Medicine Unit Lab at UCLH, we are dedicated to advancing reproductive health through innovative solutions and exceptional patient care. Joining us means becoming part of a leading institution committed to excellence and the well-being of our patients. You will work alongside a passionate team of professionals who share your commitment to improving lives. If you are driven by a desire to make a meaningful difference in the field of andrology and thrive in a dynamic, supportive environment, we encourage you to apply. This is your opportunity to play a key role in shaping the future of male reproductive health while advancing your career in a fulfilling and impactful way. Join us in our mission to provide comprehensive and compassionate care to our patients.

Come and be a part of the best NHS trust in England to work for, according to our staff*

UCLH top trust to work at in England for the second year running! : University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust

*In the most recent NHS staff survey UCLH had the highest percentage of staff who said they would recommend us as a place to work, out of all general acute or acute/community NHS trusts in England for the second year in a row.

UCLH top trust to work at in England for the second year running! University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.

Once again, UCLH has received the highest score of all general acute and acute/community NHS trusts in England for staff that would recommend us as a place to work.

Person Specification

Knowledge and Qualifications

Essential

• BSc in Biological Sciences.
• Knowledge of reproductive physiology (esp. of male), and related technologies.
• Knowledge and understanding of HF&E Act and Code of Practice.

Desirable

• Attainment of or working towards attainment of ABA/BAS certificate in semen analysis (or equivalent formal training).

Experience

Essential

• Experience of working in a fertility/IVF laboratory environment in an Andrology role
• Previous NHS experience
• Experience of working with patient group
• Experience of trouble shooting everyday issues
• Evidence of continuing professional development

Skills and Abilities Behaviours

Essential

• Empathetic Approach
• Excellent time management skills and ability to prioritise and manage own workload.
• Works to prescribed procedures.
• Flexible approach
• Actively caring and considerate to fellow team members

Communication

Essential

• Excellent communication skills to liaise effectively with patients and colleagues, verbally and in writing.

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 College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust

Address

University College London Hospital

235 Euston Road

London

NW1 2BU

Employer's website

https://www.uclh.nhs.uk (Opens in a new tab)