Job overview
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.
In addition to its established solid tumour testing portfolio, the laboratory has recently expanded to deliver circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA) testing services, supporting cutting-edge approaches to cancer diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment response. This new service represents a significant advancement in personalised cancer care and offers staff the opportunity to work with innovative technologies at the forefront of genomic medicine.
We are seeking to recruit a Medical Technical Officer (MTO1) at Synnovis Pay Band 4 who will participate in the technical work and general housekeeping duties for all areas of the service, including ctDNA testing. Training and rotational opportunities are available within the cancer genetics team, and these will be determined by individual competency and laboratory requirements 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 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—including ctDNA testing—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
·Processing samples ready for genetic analysis across our solid tumour testing service
·Supporting the delivery of the circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA) service, including sample preparation and analysis using advanced molecular techniques
·Participation in selected molecular assays, which may include real-time quantitative PCR for measurable residual disease (MRD) monitoring in acute myeloid leukaemia (AML)
All MTO1 staff also participate in general housekeeping duties such as reagent management, emptying bins, maintaining a clean and tidy laboratory environment, unpacking deliveries, and stock/reagent management.
Previous practical experience of working in a diagnostic genetic laboratory would be helpful; however, appropriate training will be provided to meet the required levels of competency. This is an entry-level post 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.
Working for our organisation
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, delivering diagnostic and prognostic information to inform treatment decisions. The service has recently expanded to include a dedicated circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA) testing programme, supporting innovative approaches to cancer monitoring and personalised care.
While the laboratory continues to provide measurable residual disease (MRD) monitoring in acute myeloid leukaemia (AML), the primary focus of service development is now on strengthening and expanding our solid tumour and ctDNA testing capabilities. The laboratory is accredited according to UKAS 15189 standards and is an accredited training centre for the Cancer Genetics Scientific Training Programme (STP) and the Molecular Pathology of Acquired Disease Higher Specialist Training (HSST) programme.
Your Development and Learning
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 and support for advanced qualifications.
Through our Innovation Accelerator Fund, you can apply for finance to launch new innovative scientific projects and participate with the wider scientific community through symposiums, conferences, and other peer group meetings.
Detailed job description and main 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 be required to work with the Molecular Genetics team in Cancer Genetics, with a possibility of working within our Cytogenetics team, depending on service needs. Expectations will be tailored to individual experience and competencies. The role will support the laboratory’s solid tumour testing service and the newly established circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA) service, alongside other diagnostic activities.
The laboratory operates between 8:00 am and 6:30 pm, and staff may be required to work within these hours depending on service needs.
Technical Duties
·Use laboratory information systems according to protocols
·Undertake routine and complex sample preparation with accuracy and precision, including handling of patient information. Laboratory duties include, but are not restricted to:
oManual and/or robotic DNA and RNA extractions from a variety of human tissue types
oPreparing samples for molecular analysis using techniques such as RT-PCR and Next Generation Sequencing (NGS)
oSupporting ctDNA workflows for cancer monitoring and treatment response
oSetting 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
·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 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 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 required
·Undertake basic troubleshooting of analytical instruments and automated analysers under supervision of senior staff
·File samples and keep laboratory records following appropriate protocols
·Dispose of excess and tested samples according to Health and Safety protocols
·Monitor stock levels within the 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 compliant with UKAS ISO15189 standards
·Undertake work file management to ensure all results are reported within agreed turnaround times
·Communicate effectively with laboratory and medical staff to ensure specimens are processed appropriately and in a timely fashion
·Enter patient results onto the laboratory computer system as required
·Use information systems and specialised computer software for data entry, collection, and interpretation of information to support laboratory services
General Duties
·Comply with local and national policies for the safe, secure, and confidential processing and storage of patient and laboratory information
·Maintain integrity and accuracy of laboratory databases where appropriate
·Escalate any issues that may impact service delivery to senior colleagues
·Follow policies within own work area and propose changes where appropriate
·Plan and organise own workload responsibly
·Assist in training of junior staff members by demonstration of duties
·Support senior staff in maintaining high scientific and quality standards
·Participate in maintenance of quality to UKAS ISO15189 standards and contribute to quality improvement initiatives
·Participate in internal and external quality assurance programmes
·Participate in audits and surveys as required
·Maintain laboratory work areas to required standards
·Build and maintain effective working relationships with all staff and promote teamwork
·Undertake mandatory training as required by Synnovis
·Maintain and promote the professional image of Synnovis
·Undertake internal training programmes and attend relevant meetings
·Work within confidentiality protocols when dealing with sensitive issues
·Undertake laboratory training and competence assessments
·Participate in annual appraisal cycles and be assessed against role competencies
·Maintain knowledge and skills as identified by appraisal outcomes
·Manage time effectively across multiple tasks and adapt to changing laboratory requirements
·Complete other appropriate duties as directed by technical leads
·Observe and adhere to local and national health and safety policies
Synnovis is a dynamic pathology partnership between SYNLAB UK & Ireland and the NHS, bringing together the expertise of Guy’s & St Thomas’s NHS Foundation Trust and King’s College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust. Together, we deliver and continually transform pathology services across South East London, supporting world-class healthcare for over 1.7 million local residents and hundreds of thousands more patients who rely on our services from outside the region.
Our partnership provides cutting-edge diagnostics, testing, and digital pathology to hospital trusts, GP practices, and healthcare providers, ensuring patients benefit from the very latest innovations in laboratory medicine.
At the heart of this collaboration is Guy’s & St Thomas’s Hospital Foundation Trust — a major emergency and specialist teaching hospital with a case load that is as fascinating as it is career-defining. From Women’s Services and Fetal Medicine to Haematology, Oncology, and Transplantation, the Trust is home to leading-edge specialties, the renowned Evelina Children’s Hospital, and the state-of-the-art Cancer Centre at Guy’s.
And when the working day is done, you’ll find yourself in one of London’s most vibrant neighbourhoods. With Borough Market, the South Bank, The Shard, Big Ben, and the London Eye all within walking distance, it’s the perfect setting to balance professional growth with personal enjoyment in one of the city’s most iconic locations.
Our laboratories operate between 8:00 am and 6:30 pm, ensuring a structured working day within a vibrant central London setting.
Person specification
Qualifications
Essential criteria
1. BSc (Hons), or equivalent, in a relevant life science discipline
Desirable criteria
2. MSc, or equivalent, in a relevant life science discipline
Experience
Essential criteria
3. Experience of undertaking practical laboratory work
4. Practical experience performing genetic laboratory techniques.
5. Understanding of Health & Safety
6. Willing to undertake administrative and technical duties as required
7. Able to work under supervision
Desirable criteria
8. Experience of undertaking practical work in a diagnostic healthcare science laboratory
9. Experience of handling and processing clinical samples in a laboratory environment
Skills & Knowledge
Essential criteria
10. Knowledge of a range of routine healthcare sciences duties, obtained through a period of training or study
11. Ability to clearly communicate scientific and organizational information both in written and verbal form
12. Can demonstrate accuracy and attention to detail
13. Careful, meticulous and able to follow instructions
14. Flexible in terms of the working day, due to the sometimes-unpredictable challenges and have a proven ability to work reliably to tight deadlines under pressure
15. Computer literate
16. Able to communicate effectively, verbally and via email
Desirable criteria
17. Knowledge and understanding of the role of Pathology Laboratories in the diagnosis and treatment of disease
18. Knowledge of the principles of human diagnostic genetic testing
19. Good working knowledge of Microsoft Excel
Applications are welcomed from applicants with a disability. We can make reasonable adjustments and offer support and advice in a variety of ways throughout the application process. All applicants are welcome to apply regardless of age, disability, gender, marital status, race, nationality or ethnic origin, religion, or sexual orientation. Equality of opportunity is our policy.
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.
All employees are entitled to:
20. Contributory pension scheme
21. Generous annual leave entitlement
22. Ground breaking development
opportunities
Safeguarding children and vulnerable adults. All employees have a responsibility for safeguarding children and vulnerable adults in the course of their daily duties and for ensuring that they are aware of the specific duties relating to their role.