Go back
UK Health Security Agency

Biomedical Scientist

The closing date is 30 March 2026

Apply for this job

Job summary

The UKHSA Mycology Reference Laboratory in Bristol is one of the few reference laboratories that are situated outside the main reference facility currently housed at Colindale. The laboratory undertakes local diagnostic testing and national reference and referred tests across a varied panel, together thesecurrently amount to more than 67,000 tests per year. The laboratory currently employs 20 staff.

The post holder will act as a Healthcare Scientist to provide specialist technical and clerical activities in support of the scientific services to patients and service users as an aid to clinical diagnosis within the Mycology Reference Laboratory. To be responsible for the efficient processing of specimens and performing additional laboratory duties, such as media and microtitre dilution plate preparation, performance of antibody, antigen and other fungalbiomarker tests, culture identification and susceptibility testing to ensure the efficient day to day performance of the laboratory, under the supervision of more senior Healthcare Scientist (HCS) and Clinical Scientist (CS) staff.

Main duties of the job

  • To receive, sort, unpack, label and process specimens
  • To understand the use of the laboratory information system (LIMS) and undertake data entry e.g. for samples received and referred and look up results etc.
  • Assist in the production and dissemination of laboratory reports, data and statistics, including the issuing of authorised reports by telephone and being aware of the priority of reports.
  • Process clinical specimens and undertake related tasks such as reading and interpreting cultures.
  • Perform and interpret identification and sensitivity tests on referred and clinical isolates.
  • To be aware of anomalous results, reporting them appropriately to ensure that unusual reports are drawn to the attention of senior staff and to report complaints or anomalies as soon as possible.
  • Liaise with medical, scientific and other healthcare staff in all matters relating to diagnosis.
  • Assist in the calibration and maintenance of equipment. To use equipment in a safe and responsible manner, assisting in maintenance and calibration as required and assist in the research and evaluation of new methods and equipment.
  • To maintain a high standard of professional competence and technical skill in the performance of all tests and investigations carried out in the laboratory.
  • Adhere to laboratory SOP's, assist in the introduction of new and amended methodology.

This is not an exhaustive list.

About us

We pride ourselves as being an employer of choice, where Everyone Matters promoting equality of opportunity to actively encourage applications from everyone, including groups currently underrepresented in our workforce.

UKHSA ethos is to be an inclusive organisation for all our staff and stakeholders. To create, nurture and sustain an inclusive culture, where differences drive innovative solutions to meet the needs of our workforce and wider communities. We do this through celebrating and protecting differences by removing barriers and promoting equity and equality of opportunity for all.

Please visit our careers site for more information https://gov.uk/ukhsa/careers

Details

Date posted

16 March 2026

Pay scheme

Agenda for change

Band

Band 6

Salary

£38,682 to £46,580 a year per annum, pro rata

Contract

Permanent

Working pattern

Full-time, Part-time, Job share, Flexible working

Reference number

919-JP-301481-EXT

Job locations

Laboratory

Bristol

BS10 5NB


Job description

Job responsibilities

  • To perform general laboratory duties e.g. checking and cleaning instruments/equipment, recording temperatures, preparing media and reagents andassistance with stock control.
  • Assist in the training of other staff and visitors and to cover the duties of other staff where possible.
  • To help revive, prepare and dispatch items for the National Collection of Pathogenic Fungi.
  • To undertake sterilisation and disposal of laboratory waste including collection of discard and waste material, loading and unloading discard bins to autoclaves, transfer of laboratory waste to designated collection/disposal areas

This is not an exhaustive list.

Essential role criteria

  • State registration as a Biomedical Scientist with the HCPC
  • BSc or equivalent in Biomedical Science
  • Demonstrable post-registration experience in a relevant field
  • Working knowledge of mycology laboratory procedures
  • Practical experience in a mycology laboratory
  • Experience with LIMS
  • Evidence of continuing professional development
  • Ability to work effectively as part of a team
  • Good computer skills and sound knowledge of common IT programmes
  • Evidence of ability to train others
  • Knowledge of health and safety practices
  • Able to provide judgement on a range of problems
  • Communicate complex and sensitive information with peers and senior staff.
  • An understanding of and commitment to equality of opportunity and good working relationships

Desirable role criteria:

  • Practical experience in a mycology laboratory
  • Experience of working in a healthcare environment
  • Able to work on own initiative, organising and prioritising own workload to set deadlines

Selection process

This vacancy will be assessed using a competency-based framework which will assess your qualifications, knowledge and experience and / or skills and abilities outlined in the essential criteria.

Stage 1: Application & Sift

You will be required to complete an application form. You will be assessed on the listed essential criteria, and this will be in the form of:

  • an application form (Employer/ Activity history section on the application)
  • a 1500 word supporting statement

This should outline how your skills, experience, and knowledge, provide evidence of your suitability for the role, with reference to the essential criteria.

You will receive a joint score for your application form and statement. (The application form is the kind of information you would put into your C.V please be advised you will not be able to upload your CV. Please complete the application form in as much detail as possible). Please do not email us your CV.

Longlisting: In the event of a large number of applications we will longlist into 3 piles of:

  • Meets all essential criteria
  • Meets some essential criteria
  • Meets no essential criteria

Only those meeting all essential criteria will be taken through to shortlisting.Shortlisting: In the event of a large number of applications we will shortlist on:

  • State registration as a Biomedical Scientist with the HCPC

Desirable criteria may be used in the event of a large number of applications / large amount of successful candidates.

If you are successful at this stage, you will progress to interview and assessment.

Feedback will not be provided at this stage.

Stage 2: Interview

You will be invited to a face to face interview. In exceptional circumstances, we may be able to offer a remote interview.

Knowledge, experience, skills and abilities will be tested at interview.

You will be required to undertake a short technical test as part of the interview process.

Interviews dates are to be confirmed.

Once this job has closed, the job advert will no longer be available. You may want to save a copy for your records.

Location

This role is lab based at Pathology Sciences Building, Southmead Hospital, Bristol, BS10 5NB. Please note that hybrid working is not available with this role.

Eligibility Criteria

Open to all external applicants (anyone) from outside the Civil Service (including by definition internal applicants).

Security Clearance Level Requirement

Successful candidates must pass a disclosure and barring security check.

Successful candidates must meet the security requirements before they can be appointed. The level of security needed is Counter Terrorism Check clearance.

For meaningful National Security Vetting checks to be carried out individuals need to have lived in the UK for a sufficient period of time. You should normally have been resident in the United Kingdom for the last 3 years as the role requires Counter Terrorism Check (CTC) clearance.UK residency less than the outlined periods may not necessarily bar you from gaining national security vetting and applicants should contact the Vacancy Holder / Recruiting Manager listed in the advert for further advice.

Job description

Job responsibilities

  • To perform general laboratory duties e.g. checking and cleaning instruments/equipment, recording temperatures, preparing media and reagents andassistance with stock control.
  • Assist in the training of other staff and visitors and to cover the duties of other staff where possible.
  • To help revive, prepare and dispatch items for the National Collection of Pathogenic Fungi.
  • To undertake sterilisation and disposal of laboratory waste including collection of discard and waste material, loading and unloading discard bins to autoclaves, transfer of laboratory waste to designated collection/disposal areas

This is not an exhaustive list.

Essential role criteria

  • State registration as a Biomedical Scientist with the HCPC
  • BSc or equivalent in Biomedical Science
  • Demonstrable post-registration experience in a relevant field
  • Working knowledge of mycology laboratory procedures
  • Practical experience in a mycology laboratory
  • Experience with LIMS
  • Evidence of continuing professional development
  • Ability to work effectively as part of a team
  • Good computer skills and sound knowledge of common IT programmes
  • Evidence of ability to train others
  • Knowledge of health and safety practices
  • Able to provide judgement on a range of problems
  • Communicate complex and sensitive information with peers and senior staff.
  • An understanding of and commitment to equality of opportunity and good working relationships

Desirable role criteria:

  • Practical experience in a mycology laboratory
  • Experience of working in a healthcare environment
  • Able to work on own initiative, organising and prioritising own workload to set deadlines

Selection process

This vacancy will be assessed using a competency-based framework which will assess your qualifications, knowledge and experience and / or skills and abilities outlined in the essential criteria.

Stage 1: Application & Sift

You will be required to complete an application form. You will be assessed on the listed essential criteria, and this will be in the form of:

  • an application form (Employer/ Activity history section on the application)
  • a 1500 word supporting statement

This should outline how your skills, experience, and knowledge, provide evidence of your suitability for the role, with reference to the essential criteria.

You will receive a joint score for your application form and statement. (The application form is the kind of information you would put into your C.V please be advised you will not be able to upload your CV. Please complete the application form in as much detail as possible). Please do not email us your CV.

Longlisting: In the event of a large number of applications we will longlist into 3 piles of:

  • Meets all essential criteria
  • Meets some essential criteria
  • Meets no essential criteria

Only those meeting all essential criteria will be taken through to shortlisting.Shortlisting: In the event of a large number of applications we will shortlist on:

  • State registration as a Biomedical Scientist with the HCPC

Desirable criteria may be used in the event of a large number of applications / large amount of successful candidates.

If you are successful at this stage, you will progress to interview and assessment.

Feedback will not be provided at this stage.

Stage 2: Interview

You will be invited to a face to face interview. In exceptional circumstances, we may be able to offer a remote interview.

Knowledge, experience, skills and abilities will be tested at interview.

You will be required to undertake a short technical test as part of the interview process.

Interviews dates are to be confirmed.

Once this job has closed, the job advert will no longer be available. You may want to save a copy for your records.

Location

This role is lab based at Pathology Sciences Building, Southmead Hospital, Bristol, BS10 5NB. Please note that hybrid working is not available with this role.

Eligibility Criteria

Open to all external applicants (anyone) from outside the Civil Service (including by definition internal applicants).

Security Clearance Level Requirement

Successful candidates must pass a disclosure and barring security check.

Successful candidates must meet the security requirements before they can be appointed. The level of security needed is Counter Terrorism Check clearance.

For meaningful National Security Vetting checks to be carried out individuals need to have lived in the UK for a sufficient period of time. You should normally have been resident in the United Kingdom for the last 3 years as the role requires Counter Terrorism Check (CTC) clearance.UK residency less than the outlined periods may not necessarily bar you from gaining national security vetting and applicants should contact the Vacancy Holder / Recruiting Manager listed in the advert for further advice.

Person Specification

Application form and supporting statement

Essential

  • Application form and supporting statement

Technical Test

Essential

  • Technical Test

Interview

Essential

  • Questions on knowledge, experience, skills & abilities
Person Specification

Application form and supporting statement

Essential

  • Application form and supporting statement

Technical Test

Essential

  • Technical Test

Interview

Essential

  • Questions on knowledge, experience, skills & abilities

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

UK Health Security Agency

Address

Laboratory

Bristol

BS10 5NB


Employer's website

https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/uk-health-security-agency (Opens in a new tab)

Employer details

Employer name

UK Health Security Agency

Address

Laboratory

Bristol

BS10 5NB


Employer's website

https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/uk-health-security-agency (Opens in a new tab)

Employer contact details

For questions about the job, contact:

Recruitment Officer

Jon Payne

jonathan.payne@ukhsa.gov.uk

Details

Date posted

16 March 2026

Pay scheme

Agenda for change

Band

Band 6

Salary

£38,682 to £46,580 a year per annum, pro rata

Contract

Permanent

Working pattern

Full-time, Part-time, Job share, Flexible working

Reference number

919-JP-301481-EXT

Job locations

Laboratory

Bristol

BS10 5NB


Privacy notice

UK Health Security Agency's privacy notice (opens in a new tab)