Job summary
We are looking to employ an enthusiastic and motivated Senior Healthcare Scientist to work within our Transformation Team in both KCH and GSTT Reference Biochemistry laboratories that are identified to be moving to the new Synnovis Laboratory Hub facility at Blackfriars.
We are inviting applications for a Senior Healthcare Scientist role from enthusiastic and motivated individuals. Ideally, you will have HCPC registration as either a Clinical Scientist or Biomedical Scientist but we would also welcome applications from non-HCPC registered individuals who have relevant academic or pharmaceutical industry experience in the areas of method validation and verification. We are also particularly interested to hear from those with mass spectrometry and chromatography experience, as these skillsets will be critical to the delivery of this project.
Main duties of the job
You will be part of a team delivering Validation and Verification (V&V) of specialist Reference Biochemistry assays to the new Synnovis Laboratory Hub situated in Blackfriars. Assays are based predominantly on liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) and immunoassay techniques. You may also be involved in the development and validation of new assays. You may be expected to participate in original research/coordinate collaborative research (both locally and nationally).
This is an exciting time to join us, as Synnovis work towards transforming existing hospital-based laboratory and diagnostic services into an integrated 'hub and spoke' network. The Reference Biochemistry laboratories will be amongst the services that transfers to a state-of-the-art 'hub' laboratory under development at Friars Bridge Court in Blackfriars. This move will provide access to improved services and equipment for routine and specialist testing; joining the team now will provide you with a unique opportunity to help model future service delivery for the laboratories and beyond.
About us
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. This includes full support towards completing FRCPath examinations.
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.
Details
Date posted
29 May 2024
Pay scheme
Agenda for change
Band
Band 7
Salary
Depending on experience £51,488 to £57,802 per annum depending on experience (pro rata)
Contract
Fixed term
Duration
6 months
Working pattern
Full-time
Reference number
J206-VIS5466-A
Job locations
Kings College Hospital
Denmark Hill
London
SE5 9RS
Job description
Job responsibilities
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.
Kings College Hospital Foundation Trust is one of the UKs leading NHS Foundation Trusts in specialist teaching. Kings has various divisions including Neurosciences, Haematology, Cancer and Cardiovascular sciences, where there are unlimited opportunities to develop and perfect your career.
Duties and Responsibilities
To safely handle blood, urine, faeces, other body tissue, hazardous chemicals.
To ensure that appropriate preventative maintenance has been carried out on laboratory instruments and equipment prior to them being used for patient investigations.
To ensure first line troubleshooting of complex analytical equipment or methods is carried out, to arrange for engineer service visits and to supervise and if necessary to participate in the resolution of equipment or method failures, including dismantling instruments to carry out initial repairs.
To ensure that reagents are prepared, stored and used according to manufacturer and laboratory procedures.
To perform highly specialised manual techniques, semi-automated and fully-automated laboratory investigations.
To measure and monitor the accuracy and imprecision of laboratory investigations using appropriate quality control procedures.
To undertake technical validation of the results from laboratory investigations to ensure accuracy and precision as specified by laboratory quality procedures and protocols.
To take corrective action when quality control or assurance procedures indicate loss of performance of the laboratory instruments or methods.
To take appropriate action when there is a situation which may or has caused a service delivery failure e.g. to liaise with clinical staff to ensure that priority work is identified and/or make alternative arrangements for an analysis to be done.
To help initiate, establish and maintain a system that ensures maximal availability and flexibility in operation of departmental chromatograph, mass spectrometers, and associated equipment.
Scientific
To undertake method and laboratory instrument evaluation, write SOPs, as directed by the management team
To participate in the introduction of new equipment or methods to the department.
To keep up to date with current scientific and technical developments including through participation in scientific meetings if appropriate.
To participate in teaching of all staff within the Department of Clinical Biochemistry.
To assist in the development of specialist biochemistry assays in its broadest sense within the department and to facilitate the development and clinical use of analytical methods based on separation science techniques in collaboration with junior and senior colleagues.
As required, to develop and/or assess new applications or new techniques in the field of specialist assays as applied to clinical biochemistry in collaboration/consultation with senior staff.
To maintain awareness of current developments in separation science and to ensure such knowledge is communicated to appropriate personnel.
To disseminate knowledge and research findings through presentations at local, national and international meetings and by publication in scientific journals.
To undertake specific research and development projects, agreed by the Research & Development or Training Committee of the Department as appropriate, within the bounds of the required service provision and available resources. The laboratory research will be under the direction of a Consultant Healthcare Scientist and supervised by a Service Delivery Manager or a Principal/Consultant Scientist/Consultant Chemical Pathologist.
Clinical
To interpret laboratory results and take appropriate actions in line with laboratory policies and procedures. E.g. authorisation of results, ordering relevant follow-up laboratory procedures, adding technical and clinically relevant comments in area(s) of responsibility, referring results for clinical interpretation or opinion, informing the requestor of clinically significant results.
Provide approved departmental information and advice to other healthcare professionals, patients and the public and to refer on to appropriate specialists requests for information out with their area of responsibility.
To authorise, biochemical tests; requesting or suggesting further investigations or referral as appropriate.
Quality Assurance
The post holder will work with the Quality Manager to ensure the section remains accredited by UKAS to iso15189 at all times
Maintain the Quality assurance procedures of the section. Measure and monitor the accuracy and imprecision of laboratory investigations in section using appropriate quality control procedures
Investigate adverse incidents and laboratory errors as necessary, communicate findings to the Service Delivery Manager and Quality Manager, and implement any changes agreed in order to reduce the likelihood of repetition
In conjunction with the Quality Manager and Training Officer, educate staff in section of the function and practice of the quality management system
The post holder will conduct and present audits to the departmental Quality committee as required by the audit schedule
The post holder is responsible for the implementation and monitoring of internal quality assurance schemes in their section. They will present IQA findings to the EQA committee as required
The post holder will be responsible for Health and Safety issues in their section and report to the designated H&S officer as required
The post holder will ensure that all staff in section read and sign Quality Management Documentation and check compliance through the appraisal system
The post holder will be responsible for relevant document management (through the use of QPulse) and ensure no uncontrolled documentation is in use within the section
To monitor turnaround times of laboratory investigations and act on information to improve the service provided.
Risk Management/Health & Safety
To be aware of the relevant health and safety and security regulations, guidelines and policies.
Work within the Departmental Health and Safety Code of practice. Awareness of hazards inherent in the laboratory and use of adequate precautions at all times.
To report adverse incidents as set out in the Trusts adverse Incident Policy.
To ensure that the work within the section is performed in accordance with current health and safety regulations and guidance and to take corrective action where necessary.
To liaise with the departmental Safety Officer in the assessment, documentation and review of the risks associated with the work performed in the section.
Continuing Professional Development
Develop knowledge of the significance of medical laboratory work in order to offer the best possible service to the user.
Understands own role and is aware of the management structure of the department.
Contributes to service initiatives within the laboratory setting.
Laboratory Informatics
To comply with local and national policies for the safe, secure and confidential processing, and storage of patient and other laboratory information.
To use the Laboratory Information System according to the authorised protocols.
To maintain the integrity and accuracy of laboratory databases.
To maintain and enhance competence in the use of word processing, spreadsheet, database and presentation software.
Staff Training
Together with the Training Officer, to support and participate in staff training and development.
To participate with supervision of the work and performance monitoring of trainees and students in the procedures for which the post holder is responsible.
Administrative
To supervise the ongoing operation of a section of Clinical Biochemistry.
To ensure compliance with good work practices in accordance with the standards of UKAS and ISO15189.
To monitor and control the efficient use of financial, material and staff resources in the section and to take corrective action in consultation with the section manager.
To prepare and review laboratory policies and procedures following national and local quality system guidelines.
To ensure that all results are reported within the agreed turnaround time, and to take appropriate action, for example communicating with colleagues and managers, arranging alternative provision in the event of a situation arising preventing timely reporting of results.
To ensure that training schedules are kept up to date and that documentation is validated signed on a regular basis as competencies are achieved.
Together with the Training Officer to supervise the work and monitor performance of trainee Healthcare Scientists, Biomedical Scientists and Specialist Registrars in the procedures for which the post holder is responsible.
To be responsible for the organisation and delivery of effective stock control of reagents and consumables in the section and to arrange alternative means of obtaining reagents from other sources if necessary.
Our Bank workers enjoy competitive market rates and flexible contract assignments across all of our sites, dependent on your availability and location.
For our Permanent workforce we offer a competitive benefits package.As well as offering competitive salaries, all employees are also entitled to:
Contributory pension scheme
Generous annual leave entitlement
Performance related pay
Annual incentive plan for allemployees
Ground breaking developmentopportunities
Job description
Job responsibilities
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.
Kings College Hospital Foundation Trust is one of the UKs leading NHS Foundation Trusts in specialist teaching. Kings has various divisions including Neurosciences, Haematology, Cancer and Cardiovascular sciences, where there are unlimited opportunities to develop and perfect your career.
Duties and Responsibilities
To safely handle blood, urine, faeces, other body tissue, hazardous chemicals.
To ensure that appropriate preventative maintenance has been carried out on laboratory instruments and equipment prior to them being used for patient investigations.
To ensure first line troubleshooting of complex analytical equipment or methods is carried out, to arrange for engineer service visits and to supervise and if necessary to participate in the resolution of equipment or method failures, including dismantling instruments to carry out initial repairs.
To ensure that reagents are prepared, stored and used according to manufacturer and laboratory procedures.
To perform highly specialised manual techniques, semi-automated and fully-automated laboratory investigations.
To measure and monitor the accuracy and imprecision of laboratory investigations using appropriate quality control procedures.
To undertake technical validation of the results from laboratory investigations to ensure accuracy and precision as specified by laboratory quality procedures and protocols.
To take corrective action when quality control or assurance procedures indicate loss of performance of the laboratory instruments or methods.
To take appropriate action when there is a situation which may or has caused a service delivery failure e.g. to liaise with clinical staff to ensure that priority work is identified and/or make alternative arrangements for an analysis to be done.
To help initiate, establish and maintain a system that ensures maximal availability and flexibility in operation of departmental chromatograph, mass spectrometers, and associated equipment.
Scientific
To undertake method and laboratory instrument evaluation, write SOPs, as directed by the management team
To participate in the introduction of new equipment or methods to the department.
To keep up to date with current scientific and technical developments including through participation in scientific meetings if appropriate.
To participate in teaching of all staff within the Department of Clinical Biochemistry.
To assist in the development of specialist biochemistry assays in its broadest sense within the department and to facilitate the development and clinical use of analytical methods based on separation science techniques in collaboration with junior and senior colleagues.
As required, to develop and/or assess new applications or new techniques in the field of specialist assays as applied to clinical biochemistry in collaboration/consultation with senior staff.
To maintain awareness of current developments in separation science and to ensure such knowledge is communicated to appropriate personnel.
To disseminate knowledge and research findings through presentations at local, national and international meetings and by publication in scientific journals.
To undertake specific research and development projects, agreed by the Research & Development or Training Committee of the Department as appropriate, within the bounds of the required service provision and available resources. The laboratory research will be under the direction of a Consultant Healthcare Scientist and supervised by a Service Delivery Manager or a Principal/Consultant Scientist/Consultant Chemical Pathologist.
Clinical
To interpret laboratory results and take appropriate actions in line with laboratory policies and procedures. E.g. authorisation of results, ordering relevant follow-up laboratory procedures, adding technical and clinically relevant comments in area(s) of responsibility, referring results for clinical interpretation or opinion, informing the requestor of clinically significant results.
Provide approved departmental information and advice to other healthcare professionals, patients and the public and to refer on to appropriate specialists requests for information out with their area of responsibility.
To authorise, biochemical tests; requesting or suggesting further investigations or referral as appropriate.
Quality Assurance
The post holder will work with the Quality Manager to ensure the section remains accredited by UKAS to iso15189 at all times
Maintain the Quality assurance procedures of the section. Measure and monitor the accuracy and imprecision of laboratory investigations in section using appropriate quality control procedures
Investigate adverse incidents and laboratory errors as necessary, communicate findings to the Service Delivery Manager and Quality Manager, and implement any changes agreed in order to reduce the likelihood of repetition
In conjunction with the Quality Manager and Training Officer, educate staff in section of the function and practice of the quality management system
The post holder will conduct and present audits to the departmental Quality committee as required by the audit schedule
The post holder is responsible for the implementation and monitoring of internal quality assurance schemes in their section. They will present IQA findings to the EQA committee as required
The post holder will be responsible for Health and Safety issues in their section and report to the designated H&S officer as required
The post holder will ensure that all staff in section read and sign Quality Management Documentation and check compliance through the appraisal system
The post holder will be responsible for relevant document management (through the use of QPulse) and ensure no uncontrolled documentation is in use within the section
To monitor turnaround times of laboratory investigations and act on information to improve the service provided.
Risk Management/Health & Safety
To be aware of the relevant health and safety and security regulations, guidelines and policies.
Work within the Departmental Health and Safety Code of practice. Awareness of hazards inherent in the laboratory and use of adequate precautions at all times.
To report adverse incidents as set out in the Trusts adverse Incident Policy.
To ensure that the work within the section is performed in accordance with current health and safety regulations and guidance and to take corrective action where necessary.
To liaise with the departmental Safety Officer in the assessment, documentation and review of the risks associated with the work performed in the section.
Continuing Professional Development
Develop knowledge of the significance of medical laboratory work in order to offer the best possible service to the user.
Understands own role and is aware of the management structure of the department.
Contributes to service initiatives within the laboratory setting.
Laboratory Informatics
To comply with local and national policies for the safe, secure and confidential processing, and storage of patient and other laboratory information.
To use the Laboratory Information System according to the authorised protocols.
To maintain the integrity and accuracy of laboratory databases.
To maintain and enhance competence in the use of word processing, spreadsheet, database and presentation software.
Staff Training
Together with the Training Officer, to support and participate in staff training and development.
To participate with supervision of the work and performance monitoring of trainees and students in the procedures for which the post holder is responsible.
Administrative
To supervise the ongoing operation of a section of Clinical Biochemistry.
To ensure compliance with good work practices in accordance with the standards of UKAS and ISO15189.
To monitor and control the efficient use of financial, material and staff resources in the section and to take corrective action in consultation with the section manager.
To prepare and review laboratory policies and procedures following national and local quality system guidelines.
To ensure that all results are reported within the agreed turnaround time, and to take appropriate action, for example communicating with colleagues and managers, arranging alternative provision in the event of a situation arising preventing timely reporting of results.
To ensure that training schedules are kept up to date and that documentation is validated signed on a regular basis as competencies are achieved.
Together with the Training Officer to supervise the work and monitor performance of trainee Healthcare Scientists, Biomedical Scientists and Specialist Registrars in the procedures for which the post holder is responsible.
To be responsible for the organisation and delivery of effective stock control of reagents and consumables in the section and to arrange alternative means of obtaining reagents from other sources if necessary.
Our Bank workers enjoy competitive market rates and flexible contract assignments across all of our sites, dependent on your availability and location.
For our Permanent workforce we offer a competitive benefits package.As well as offering competitive salaries, all employees are also entitled to:
Contributory pension scheme
Generous annual leave entitlement
Performance related pay
Annual incentive plan for allemployees
Ground breaking developmentopportunities
Person Specification
Qualifications
Essential
- First or second class honours degree in Biochemistry, Chemistry or closely related subject.
- Higher degree MSc/PhD in Clinical Biochemistry (or related subject).
Desirable
- In possession of HCPC registration as either a Clinical Scientist or Biomedical Scientist
Experience
Essential
- Experience of method development/ evaluation/verification/ implementation and the clinical interpretation of results.
- Thorough knowledge of quality assurance.
- Highly developed problem solving skills
Desirable
- Research and development experience.
- Minimum of 2.5 years in a routine Clinical Biochemistry laboratory.
Skills and Knowledge
Essential
- Direct experience of operation of liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) or gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) systems
- Able to prepare and present method evaluation/validation data using appropriate statistical analyses
Desirable
- Thorough knowledge of human biochemistry and chemistry, including specialist assay processes used to assess it.
Person Specification
Qualifications
Essential
- First or second class honours degree in Biochemistry, Chemistry or closely related subject.
- Higher degree MSc/PhD in Clinical Biochemistry (or related subject).
Desirable
- In possession of HCPC registration as either a Clinical Scientist or Biomedical Scientist
Experience
Essential
- Experience of method development/ evaluation/verification/ implementation and the clinical interpretation of results.
- Thorough knowledge of quality assurance.
- Highly developed problem solving skills
Desirable
- Research and development experience.
- Minimum of 2.5 years in a routine Clinical Biochemistry laboratory.
Skills and Knowledge
Essential
- Direct experience of operation of liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) or gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) systems
- Able to prepare and present method evaluation/validation data using appropriate statistical analyses
Desirable
- Thorough knowledge of human biochemistry and chemistry, including specialist assay processes used to assess it.
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
Synnovis Analytics
Address
Kings College Hospital
Denmark Hill
London
SE5 9RS
Employer's website
Employer details
Employer name
Synnovis Analytics
Address
Kings College Hospital
Denmark Hill
London
SE5 9RS
Employer's website
Employer contact details
For questions about the job, contact:
Details
Date posted
29 May 2024
Pay scheme
Agenda for change
Band
Band 7
Salary
Depending on experience £51,488 to £57,802 per annum depending on experience (pro rata)
Contract
Fixed term
Duration
6 months
Working pattern
Full-time
Reference number
J206-VIS5466-A
Job locations
Kings College Hospital
Denmark Hill
London
SE5 9RS