Key Responsibilities
* Provide line management support and leadership for the team of Translational Research Facilitators.
* Ensure the efficient and timely initiation and delivery of translational research projects within ECMT, supporting with the identification and management of any requirements specific to translational processes.
* Ensure the efficient and timely collection, processing and shipment of research samples in accordance with individual trial requirements and HTA.
* Ensure the implementation, standardisation and optimisation of data systems for data collection and accurate sample tracking.
* Ensure the application of robust quality management principles across all translational research and sample‑handling activities, including adherence to SOPs, audit readiness, accurate documentation and continuous improvement of processes.
* Support divisional activity and performance reporting.
* Work with the ECMT Research Manager, MCRC Biobank Quality and Laboratory Manager and other senior managers to support the identification and delivery of quality improvement and other projects across the team and division.
Leadership and Management
* Provide direct line management for Translational Research Facilitator (TRF) staff within the ECMT.
* Overall managerial responsibility for recruitment, retention, disciplinary and grievance, and all human resource related staffing issues for the TRF team.
* Ensure annual performance review and identification of development needs in accordance with Trust policy.
* Act as a role model and resource for all team members.
* Maintain own professional development and identify learning needs and opportunities.
* Contribute to the training and development of nonclinical staff across the Research Division in relation to Translational Research.
Translational Research Trials Management
* Act as a pivotal point of contact for Investigators, study sponsors and other relevant parties in relation to translational research studies within the ECMT.
* Provide guidance to investigators during set up and throughout the study in relation to sample handling and data collection requirements for investigator‑led trials.
* Develop and implement processes to ensure safe and efficient handling of samples according to protocol and regulations.
* Provide advice to investigators on protocol development and grant applications.
* Implement and maintain systems to track the status of the translational research portfolio.
* Manage workload within the TRF team, ensuring cross‑cover and flexibility for patient schedules and sample requirements.
* Ensure efficient and effective data capture mechanisms within agreed timeframes.
* Report mechanisms to measure data capture/entry against agreed performance metrics.
* Maintain reporting of molecular results via the Molecular Tumour Board.
* Report on turnaround times of sample retrieval/shipment per protocol.
* Develop and deliver action plans to address deviations from agreed data capture metrics.
* Ensure team, divisional and national study targets within agreed timeframes.
* Provide expertise at trial feasibility and assessment of resource requirements.
* Collate relevant information regarding team capability for strategic partnership meetings.
* Ensure compliance with archiving process and Trust archiving guidelines.
* Maintain in‑house LIMS system and develop functionality to align with data collection and sample requirements.
* Develop processes to guarantee the completion, quality and integrity of data collected within the LIMS system.
Quality and Service Development
* Collaborate with the ECMT Research Manager, MCRC Biobank Quality and Laboratory Manager, Translational Programme Lead, and Research Quality and Regulatory Compliance Team to implement, embed and maintain quality systems and governance expectations.
* Build and maintain effective internal and external relationships to support timely and accurate retrieval, handling and transfer of research samples.
* Conduct scheduled and ad‑hoc internal audits of TRF activity, ensuring compliance with HTA, GCP and local SOPs, documenting findings and driving corrective and preventative actions.
* Lead proactive monitoring of quality and operational performance; maintain and review a Quality Management Plan for ECMT.
* Identify concerns early and respond effectively with CAPAs and escalation when needed.
* Plan, prioritise and execute workload effectively within established protocols and SOPs.
* Lead or participate in projects relating to quality improvement, sample governance, digital systems and harmonisation of processes across research delivery teams.
Training and Education
* Oversee induction training, support and mentoring for new non‑clinical post holders within the TRF team; review staff competencies to ensure staff are fully trained in SOPs, policies and regulations.
* Support and contribute to training needs of the TRF team, aligning organisation goals.
* Provide hands‑on training for blood or tissue sample handling and specialist equipment.
* Participate in Trust‑wide education programmes, regional and national meetings, research seminars and disseminate information to ECMT and research division.
* Provide specialist knowledge on the Human Tissue Act (2004) to investigators and researchers.
Qualifications
* Experience of line management, and qualified to at least a scientific degree level, or equivalent level of experience.
* Knowledge of the Human Tissue Act 2004 and Good Clinical Practice (GCP).
* Significant knowledge and experience of the clinical trials process, particularly translational research.
* Ability to work proactively and autonomously, with a strong understanding of quality oversight in translational research.
* Experience in electronic data capture and LIMS systems is desirable.
Application Deadline: Sunday 26 Apr 2026
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