Job summary
An exciting opportunity has arisen to join the Sheffield Diagnostic Genetics Service at Sheffield Children's NHS Foundation Trust as a Genetic Technologist.
The post holder will be a compassionate, accountable individual who treats all colleagues, patients and service users with respect and seeks to deliver excellence in their role. They will share the Trust values and be committed to equality, diversity and inclusion.
The post of Genetic Technologist at SDGS is to provide technical and analytical services to the department. You will contribute to the diagnostic service, whilst gaining experience and working towards achieving internally measured competences, targets and will be required to be (or already be) professionally registered. In addition you will participate in the routine work of the laboratory by participation on the rotas and other similar tasks as directed by the Operational Services Manager.
Interviews will only be held face to face only.
Main duties of the job
To analyse & interpret results from molecular or cytogenetic techniques such as, but not limited to, PCR, Karyotyping, Arrays, Sanger sequencing, next-generation sequencing and whole genome sequencing, and other processes according to the appropriate SOP's, targets and timescales, under the direction of a genetic technologist band 6.
To undertake the generation of standard template reports for first line reporting.
To work in all areas of the genetic services offered by the department to gain broad experience.
To organise own daily workload in collaboration with senior genetic technologists where required, and to work to appropriate timescales and targets.
To supervise a subset of Medical Laboratory Assistants in laboratory techniques.
To participate in internal and external quality control procedures and to abide by all codes of practice, safety regulations, protocols and operational policies of the department and the Trust.
To participate in specific areas of research and development activity as appropriate
About us
At Sheffield Children's, our purpose is clear: to provide healthier futures for children and young people. Our three strategic aims are:
-
Outstanding Patient Care
-
Brilliant Place to work
-
Leaders in Children's Health
We work successfully with local, regional, and national partners to provide physical and mental healthcare across acute and community settings. Many of our clinicians are amongst the best in their field, recognised nationally and internationally for their expertise.
As well as having enormous pride in what we do, we are a friendly, welcoming, and motivated NHS Trust who are guided by our CARE values: Compassion, Accountability, Respect, and Excellence. Our nearly 4000 colleagues live these values, ensuring kind and compassionate care that makes patients and their families feel safe and at home.
As we approach our 150th anniversary in 2026, we remain committed to enhancing our reputation in children's health leadership, improving the experiences of both patient and colleagues, and focusing on our communities and population health.
Job description
Job responsibilities
To analyse & interpret results from molecular or cytogenetic techniques such as, but not limited to, PCR, Karyotyping, Arrays, Sanger sequencing, next-generation sequencing and whole genome sequencing, and other processes according to the appropriate SOPs, targets and timescales, under the direction of a genetic technologist band 6.
To undertake the generation of standard template reports for first line reporting
To work in all areas of the genetic services offered by the department to gain broad experience.
To organise own daily workload in collaboration with senior genetic technologists where required, and to work to appropriate timescales and targets
To supervise a subset of Medical Laboratory Assistants in laboratory techniques.
To participate in internal and external quality control procedures and to abide by all codes of practice, safety regulations, protocols and operational policies of the department and the Trust.
To participate in specific areas of research and development activity as appropriate.
To maintain all necessary manual and computerised records of work and archiving of diagnostic materials
To be involved in the training of genetic technologists and trainee clinical scientists in the analytical skills of the service as directed by the departmental training officers
To take all necessary measures to acquire, improve and apply the scientific skills and expertise necessary to perform the duties of the post at a high level of quality and reliability. This will include attendance and presentation in lectures, seminars, meetings and courses.
To be able to develop, troubleshoot departmental laboratory equipment, methods and to generate appropriate SOPs.
To be proficient in and perform a wide range of genetics techniques.
To take all necessary steps to achieve and maintain registration on the voluntary register for Genetic Technologists.
To abide by all Codes of Practice, Safety Regulations, Protocols and Operational Policies of the department and the service.
The post holder will participate in an annual Personal Development Review/ appraisal process as well as all necessary mandatory training. As part of the appraisal process, the post holder's involvement and contribution to Quality Management will be reviewed along with their understanding and compliance with the current, relevant Trust objective.
Inclusive Recruitment & Selection
We are committed to being an inclusive employer and accurate data capture is an important part of that to ensure we are supportive and representative. Our aim is to ensure that all applicants can see themselves in the available categories on our application form, but we recognise that some of our data capture fields are not inclusive. We have flagged this with our system provider to ask for change.
We offer encouragement and active support to applicants with additional needs, including those from ethnic minorities, with disabilities and members of the LGBTQ+ community. If you wish to adjust any aspect of the recruitment process or wish to find out more about our recruitment & selection processes, please get in touch with our Recruitment Manager: Catherine.Gilbert7@nhs.net
We are continually reviewing our recruitment & selection process to support the long-term aim of Sheffield Childrens being a champion of Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion. If you have any ideas for improvement, please get in touch with Catherine Gilbert at Catherine.Gilbert7@nhs.net
Trust Values
The Trust is committed to providing great quality patient care and keep children, young people and families at the heart of what we do by following our CARE values:
- Compassion leading by kindness and showing empathy, understanding and respect
- Accountability striving to do the right thing and owning responsibility
- Respect value differences, tackling inequality and fostering a culture of inclusion
- Excellence delivering a high-quality standard of care
Job description
Job responsibilities
To analyse & interpret results from molecular or cytogenetic techniques such as, but not limited to, PCR, Karyotyping, Arrays, Sanger sequencing, next-generation sequencing and whole genome sequencing, and other processes according to the appropriate SOPs, targets and timescales, under the direction of a genetic technologist band 6.
To undertake the generation of standard template reports for first line reporting
To work in all areas of the genetic services offered by the department to gain broad experience.
To organise own daily workload in collaboration with senior genetic technologists where required, and to work to appropriate timescales and targets
To supervise a subset of Medical Laboratory Assistants in laboratory techniques.
To participate in internal and external quality control procedures and to abide by all codes of practice, safety regulations, protocols and operational policies of the department and the Trust.
To participate in specific areas of research and development activity as appropriate.
To maintain all necessary manual and computerised records of work and archiving of diagnostic materials
To be involved in the training of genetic technologists and trainee clinical scientists in the analytical skills of the service as directed by the departmental training officers
To take all necessary measures to acquire, improve and apply the scientific skills and expertise necessary to perform the duties of the post at a high level of quality and reliability. This will include attendance and presentation in lectures, seminars, meetings and courses.
To be able to develop, troubleshoot departmental laboratory equipment, methods and to generate appropriate SOPs.
To be proficient in and perform a wide range of genetics techniques.
To take all necessary steps to achieve and maintain registration on the voluntary register for Genetic Technologists.
To abide by all Codes of Practice, Safety Regulations, Protocols and Operational Policies of the department and the service.
The post holder will participate in an annual Personal Development Review/ appraisal process as well as all necessary mandatory training. As part of the appraisal process, the post holder's involvement and contribution to Quality Management will be reviewed along with their understanding and compliance with the current, relevant Trust objective.
Inclusive Recruitment & Selection
We are committed to being an inclusive employer and accurate data capture is an important part of that to ensure we are supportive and representative. Our aim is to ensure that all applicants can see themselves in the available categories on our application form, but we recognise that some of our data capture fields are not inclusive. We have flagged this with our system provider to ask for change.
We offer encouragement and active support to applicants with additional needs, including those from ethnic minorities, with disabilities and members of the LGBTQ+ community. If you wish to adjust any aspect of the recruitment process or wish to find out more about our recruitment & selection processes, please get in touch with our Recruitment Manager: Catherine.Gilbert7@nhs.net
We are continually reviewing our recruitment & selection process to support the long-term aim of Sheffield Childrens being a champion of Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion. If you have any ideas for improvement, please get in touch with Catherine Gilbert at Catherine.Gilbert7@nhs.net
Trust Values
The Trust is committed to providing great quality patient care and keep children, young people and families at the heart of what we do by following our CARE values:
- Compassion leading by kindness and showing empathy, understanding and respect
- Accountability striving to do the right thing and owning responsibility
- Respect value differences, tackling inequality and fostering a culture of inclusion
- Excellence delivering a high-quality standard of care
Person Specification
Qualifications and Training
Essential
- Degree or equivalent, or equivalent appropriate experience in biological science (or related discipline).
- Committed to working towards professional registration (AHCS)
Desirable
- Registered with the AHCS.
Experience
Essential
- Substantial experience of genetic techniques having worked in an accredited NHS diagnostic laboratory or equivalent workplace.
Desirable
- Demonstrable experience of a range of molecular and cytogenetic techniques.
Knowledge and Skills
Essential
- Knowledge of the principles of human genetics
- High level of technical skill with laboratory processes.
- Proficient in a wide range of genetic techniques.
- Ability to follow protocols strictly with awareness of health and safety issues.
- Good communication skills.
- IT skills.
Desirable
- Knowledge of the principles of human diagnostic genetic testing.
- Ability to use relevant laboratory software e.g., Cytovision, Mutation Surveyor, Genemapper or equivalents.
Personal Attributes
Essential
- Able to carry responsibility for day-to-day management of workload and work to tight deadlines where necessary.
- Keen to learn and develop new competencies.
- Team player.
Desirable
- Enthusiasm to promote integrated working practices.
Demonstrates Trust Values
Essential
- Compassion, Accountability, Respect and Excellence.
Person Specification
Qualifications and Training
Essential
- Degree or equivalent, or equivalent appropriate experience in biological science (or related discipline).
- Committed to working towards professional registration (AHCS)
Desirable
- Registered with the AHCS.
Experience
Essential
- Substantial experience of genetic techniques having worked in an accredited NHS diagnostic laboratory or equivalent workplace.
Desirable
- Demonstrable experience of a range of molecular and cytogenetic techniques.
Knowledge and Skills
Essential
- Knowledge of the principles of human genetics
- High level of technical skill with laboratory processes.
- Proficient in a wide range of genetic techniques.
- Ability to follow protocols strictly with awareness of health and safety issues.
- Good communication skills.
- IT skills.
Desirable
- Knowledge of the principles of human diagnostic genetic testing.
- Ability to use relevant laboratory software e.g., Cytovision, Mutation Surveyor, Genemapper or equivalents.
Personal Attributes
Essential
- Able to carry responsibility for day-to-day management of workload and work to tight deadlines where necessary.
- Keen to learn and develop new competencies.
- Team player.
Desirable
- Enthusiasm to promote integrated working practices.
Demonstrates Trust Values
Essential
- Compassion, Accountability, Respect and Excellence.
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.
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).
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.
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).
