Job summary
The Synnovis Cancer Genetics laboratory at Guy's Hospital is part of the South East Genomics Laboratory Hub (SEGLH) and is the designated provider of adult solid tumour testing for the whole of the SEGLH geography. Large scale expansion and transformation of the service is underway to ensure equity of access to the NHSE National Genomic Test Directory for Cancer.
We are seeking to recruit a Medical Technical Officer (MTO1) at AfC band 4 equivalent who will participate in the technical work and general housekeeping duties for all areas of the service. Training and rotational opportunities are available within the cancer genetics team and these will be determined by individual competency and laboratory requirements in order to support the provision of a flexible and efficient service.
The successful applicant will demonstrate an enthusiasm for learning and have excellent written and verbal communication skills in order to work effectively with staff at all levels within the Cancer Genetics team and other sections of the genomic laboratory hub.
This is a great opportunity to join a rapidly growing service, utilising the latest technologies within a large fully integrated genomic laboratory hub with more than 120 staff.
Main duties of the job
You will contribute to the clinical work of the Cancer Genetics team in line with your own skills and competencies, undertaking a broad range of technical laboratory activities. Specific duties will depend on the area in which you are working but will include preparation of reagents and solutions, DNA and RNA extractions from a variety of human tissue types and processing samples ready for genetic analysis using a variety of techniques including real time quantitative PCR for measurable residual disease (MRD) monitoring in acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) and a variety of cytogenetic processes. All MTO1 staff participate in general housekeeping duties such as reagent management, emptying bins, maintaining a clean and tidy laboratory environment and unpacking deliveries.
Previous practical experience of working in a diagnostic genetic laboratory would be helpful, however appropriate training will be given in order to meet the required levels of competency. This is an entry level post which would be suitable for new life science and biomedical science graduates who are keen to work in the field of diagnostic cancer genetics. There are excellent opportunities available for career development.
About us
The Cancer Genetics team is comprised of around 50 administrative, scientific and technical staff within the cytogenetic and molecular genetic laboratories. Testing is provided for patients with a wide range of adult solid tumours and haematological malignancies, in order to provide diagnostic and prognostic information and inform treatment decisions. The service includes a substantial nationally and internationally renowned acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) minimal residual disease (MRD) monitoring service which has close links with the King's College NIHR clinical trials AML MRD unit. The laboratory is accredited according to UKAS 15189 standards and is an accredited training laboratory for the provision of the cancer genetic Scientific Training Programme (STP) and the Molecular Pathology of Acquired Disease Higher Specialist Training (HSST) programme.
You will have a suite of learning opportunities available through The Synnovis Way Development programme, the Scientific Learning and Development Fund and the Synnovis Academy through which you can receive funding / support for advanced qualifications.
Through our Innovation Accelerator Fund, you can apply for finance to get that new innovative scientific project off the ground, and participate with the wider scientific community through symposiums, conferences and other peer group meetings.
Job description
Job responsibilities
At Synnovis, we are currently shaping the future of pathology services by creating a world-leading Hub and Spoke pathology network with our NHS partners. A large part of this modernisation will involve moving 70% of our services to a purpose built, state of the art Hub laboratory in the heart of London.
For now, the job you are applying for will be based at one of our hospital sites however, from 1 April 2024 our people and services will start to move to our Hub laboratory in Blackfriars, Southwark, SE1, with some work remaining in refurbished essential services laboratories across our hospital network, focusing on the rapid turnover of urgent tests. Please do ask your recruiting manager if you wish to find out more.
Duties and Responsibilities
The post holder will work across the cytogenetic and molecular genetic teams within Cancer Genetics as required expectations will be tailored to individual experience and competencies.
Technical duties
- Use laboratory information systems according to protocols
- Undertake routine and complex sample preparation using accuracy and precision to correctly employ the procedures and protocols applicable to cancer genetics, including handling of patient information. Laboratory duties include, but are not restricted to; manual and/or robotic DNA and RNA extractions from a variety of human tissue types, preparing samples for molecular analysis using techniques such as RT-PCR and Next Generation Squencing (NGS), setting up and processing slides for FISH analysis
- Undertake an appropriate proportion of the total workload of the Cancer Genetics section and take responsibility for accuracy of the work undertaken
- Undertake accurate and precise data entry on the laboratory computer system under supervision of more senior staff
- Provide cover for staff at the same or lower grade depending on the needs of the section
- The post holder must communicate all problems and obtain help/advice from appropriate senior staff
- Develop a close working relationship with the other technical and scientific staff within Cancer Genetics and liaise as required with members of the other sections of the Genetics SDU
- Prepare reagents and solutions used within the department
- Liaise with other members of the team regarding technical matters, sample preparation and selection of further tests as required
- Perform automated, semi-automated and manual processing of specimens which may require a high level of dexterity
- Prepare and process samples for clinical trials and research and development projects as and when required
- Perform quality control measures to monitor analytical performance, take corrective action where applicable and report any failures to an appropriate member of staff
- Set up equipment for use by other members of staff
- Undertake preventative maintenance of automated analysers as and when required
- Undertake basic troubleshooting of analytical instruments and automated analysers under supervision of senior staff
- Following appropriate protocols file samples and keep laboratory records
- Dispose of excess and tested samples according to Health and Safety protocols
- Monitor stock levels within department and inform appropriate staff members of the need to order reagents and consumables
- Where appropriate attend and support clinics and satellite labs
Administrative duties
- Assist in ensuring laboratory record keeping is accurate and in compliance with good work practices according to the UKAS ISO15189 standards
- Undertake work file management to ensure all results are reported with agreed turnaround time
- Effectively communicate with laboratory and medical staff to ensure that specimens are dealt with appropriately and in a timely fashion
- Enter patient results onto laboratory computer system as and when required
- Use information systems and both general and specialised computer software for data entry and for collection and interpretation of information to assist in the provision of laboratory services
General duties
- Compliance with local and national policies for the safe secure and confidential processing, and storage of patient and other laboratory information
- Maintain integrity and accuracy of laboratory database where appropriate
- Be proactive in escalating any possible issues that may impact on service delivery to senior colleagues
- Follow policies within own work area and propose changes to such policies
- Responsible for the planning and organising own workload
- Assist in training of more junior staff members by demonstration of own duties
- Assist senior staff by maintaining high scientific and quality standards
- Participate in maintenance of quality to UKAS ISO15189 standards and be actively involved in quality improvement.
- Participate in internal and external quality assurance programmes
- Participate in audits and surveys as and when required
- Ensure workplace and workbench areas are kept at laboratory standard
- Build and maintain working relations with all members of staff and promote effective teamwork
- Undertake mandatory training as required by Viapath
- Maintain and promote the professional image of Viapath
- Undertake an internal training programme including attendance at relevant meetings
- Work within the remit of confidentiality when dealing with issues of a sensitive nature
- Undertake a period of laboratory training and competence assessment
- Participate in an annual appraisal cycle, and be assessed against the competences of the role
- Maintain knowledge and skills as identified by the appraisal cycle
- Observe and adhere to local and national health and safety policies
Synnovis is a pathology partnership between SYNLAB UK and Ireland, and the NHS, including sites, Guys & St Thomas NHS Foundation Trust and Kings College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, to deliver and transform pathology services across South East London.
The partnership provides services to 1.7 million people living in South East London, as well as to hundreds of thousands of patients from outside the region who use local healthcare services.
The partnership provides diagnostics, testing and digital pathology for hospital trusts, GP services and other healthcare providers.
GSTT
Guys and St Thomas Hospital Foundation Trust is a major emergency and specialist teaching Trust which has all the specialties associated with a fascinating and career defining case load including: Womens Services, Fetal Medicine, Haematology, Oncology, Transplantation, and is also home to the Evelina Childrens Hospital and the Cancer Centre on the Guys site.
You will be close to the vibrant Borough Market and the South Bank, which are exceptional London locations; perfect places to work and relax next to such iconic venues as Big Ben, The London Eye and The Shard!
Job description
Job responsibilities
At Synnovis, we are currently shaping the future of pathology services by creating a world-leading Hub and Spoke pathology network with our NHS partners. A large part of this modernisation will involve moving 70% of our services to a purpose built, state of the art Hub laboratory in the heart of London.
For now, the job you are applying for will be based at one of our hospital sites however, from 1 April 2024 our people and services will start to move to our Hub laboratory in Blackfriars, Southwark, SE1, with some work remaining in refurbished essential services laboratories across our hospital network, focusing on the rapid turnover of urgent tests. Please do ask your recruiting manager if you wish to find out more.
Duties and Responsibilities
The post holder will work across the cytogenetic and molecular genetic teams within Cancer Genetics as required expectations will be tailored to individual experience and competencies.
Technical duties
- Use laboratory information systems according to protocols
- Undertake routine and complex sample preparation using accuracy and precision to correctly employ the procedures and protocols applicable to cancer genetics, including handling of patient information. Laboratory duties include, but are not restricted to; manual and/or robotic DNA and RNA extractions from a variety of human tissue types, preparing samples for molecular analysis using techniques such as RT-PCR and Next Generation Squencing (NGS), setting up and processing slides for FISH analysis
- Undertake an appropriate proportion of the total workload of the Cancer Genetics section and take responsibility for accuracy of the work undertaken
- Undertake accurate and precise data entry on the laboratory computer system under supervision of more senior staff
- Provide cover for staff at the same or lower grade depending on the needs of the section
- The post holder must communicate all problems and obtain help/advice from appropriate senior staff
- Develop a close working relationship with the other technical and scientific staff within Cancer Genetics and liaise as required with members of the other sections of the Genetics SDU
- Prepare reagents and solutions used within the department
- Liaise with other members of the team regarding technical matters, sample preparation and selection of further tests as required
- Perform automated, semi-automated and manual processing of specimens which may require a high level of dexterity
- Prepare and process samples for clinical trials and research and development projects as and when required
- Perform quality control measures to monitor analytical performance, take corrective action where applicable and report any failures to an appropriate member of staff
- Set up equipment for use by other members of staff
- Undertake preventative maintenance of automated analysers as and when required
- Undertake basic troubleshooting of analytical instruments and automated analysers under supervision of senior staff
- Following appropriate protocols file samples and keep laboratory records
- Dispose of excess and tested samples according to Health and Safety protocols
- Monitor stock levels within department and inform appropriate staff members of the need to order reagents and consumables
- Where appropriate attend and support clinics and satellite labs
Administrative duties
- Assist in ensuring laboratory record keeping is accurate and in compliance with good work practices according to the UKAS ISO15189 standards
- Undertake work file management to ensure all results are reported with agreed turnaround time
- Effectively communicate with laboratory and medical staff to ensure that specimens are dealt with appropriately and in a timely fashion
- Enter patient results onto laboratory computer system as and when required
- Use information systems and both general and specialised computer software for data entry and for collection and interpretation of information to assist in the provision of laboratory services
General duties
- Compliance with local and national policies for the safe secure and confidential processing, and storage of patient and other laboratory information
- Maintain integrity and accuracy of laboratory database where appropriate
- Be proactive in escalating any possible issues that may impact on service delivery to senior colleagues
- Follow policies within own work area and propose changes to such policies
- Responsible for the planning and organising own workload
- Assist in training of more junior staff members by demonstration of own duties
- Assist senior staff by maintaining high scientific and quality standards
- Participate in maintenance of quality to UKAS ISO15189 standards and be actively involved in quality improvement.
- Participate in internal and external quality assurance programmes
- Participate in audits and surveys as and when required
- Ensure workplace and workbench areas are kept at laboratory standard
- Build and maintain working relations with all members of staff and promote effective teamwork
- Undertake mandatory training as required by Viapath
- Maintain and promote the professional image of Viapath
- Undertake an internal training programme including attendance at relevant meetings
- Work within the remit of confidentiality when dealing with issues of a sensitive nature
- Undertake a period of laboratory training and competence assessment
- Participate in an annual appraisal cycle, and be assessed against the competences of the role
- Maintain knowledge and skills as identified by the appraisal cycle
- Observe and adhere to local and national health and safety policies
Synnovis is a pathology partnership between SYNLAB UK and Ireland, and the NHS, including sites, Guys & St Thomas NHS Foundation Trust and Kings College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, to deliver and transform pathology services across South East London.
The partnership provides services to 1.7 million people living in South East London, as well as to hundreds of thousands of patients from outside the region who use local healthcare services.
The partnership provides diagnostics, testing and digital pathology for hospital trusts, GP services and other healthcare providers.
GSTT
Guys and St Thomas Hospital Foundation Trust is a major emergency and specialist teaching Trust which has all the specialties associated with a fascinating and career defining case load including: Womens Services, Fetal Medicine, Haematology, Oncology, Transplantation, and is also home to the Evelina Childrens Hospital and the Cancer Centre on the Guys site.
You will be close to the vibrant Borough Market and the South Bank, which are exceptional London locations; perfect places to work and relax next to such iconic venues as Big Ben, The London Eye and The Shard!
Person Specification
Qualifications
Essential
- BSc (Hons), or equivalent, in a relevant life science discipline
Experience
Essential
- Experience of undertaking practical laboratory work
- Practical experience using a range of molecular laboratory and/or tissue culture techniques
Desirable
- Experience of undertaking practical work in a diagnostic healthcare science laboratory
- Experience of handling and processing clinical samples in a laboratory environment
Skills and Knowledge
Essential
- Knowledge of a range of routine healthcare sciences duties, obtained through a period of training or study
Desirable
- Knowledge and understanding of the role of Pathology Laboratories in the diagnosis and treatment of disease
Person Specification
Qualifications
Essential
- BSc (Hons), or equivalent, in a relevant life science discipline
Experience
Essential
- Experience of undertaking practical laboratory work
- Practical experience using a range of molecular laboratory and/or tissue culture techniques
Desirable
- Experience of undertaking practical work in a diagnostic healthcare science laboratory
- Experience of handling and processing clinical samples in a laboratory environment
Skills and Knowledge
Essential
- Knowledge of a range of routine healthcare sciences duties, obtained through a period of training or study
Desirable
- Knowledge and understanding of the role of Pathology Laboratories in the diagnosis and treatment of disease
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.
