Job overview
Genetic Technologist – Laboratory for Molecular Haemato-Oncology – SE-HMDS at King’s College Hospital
We are seeking an enthusiastic Genetic Technologist to work in The Laboratory for Molecular Haemato-Oncology which provides a wide repertoire of molecular investigation to the King’s Haematological Malignancy Diagnostic Service (SE-HMDS) within the South East NHS Genomic Laboratory Hub (GLH), through identification and quantification of molecular variants/markers for diagnostic, prognostic and monitoring purposes. You will be working closely with clinical teams as well as other laboratories, including immunophenotyping, cytogenetics.
The laboratory performs a range of specialised tests, including RT-PCR for measurable disease monitoring, fragment analysis for chimerism monitoring and FLT3/NPM1 analysis, Next Generation Sequencing, microarray karyotyping, analysis of Whole Genome Sequencing data and ddPCR.
The post holder will perform these tests, according to requirements, and analyse data, whilst ensuring work is carried out to a high standard and within relevant target reporting times. An additional key role will be to support the work of the sample reception laboratory.
The post holder will also be able to contribute to test development, writing and reviewing Standard Operating Procedures, assisting with audits and other Quality activities as required.
You must be flexible in terms of the working day, due to the sometimes unpredictable challenges of maintaining a high-intensity service. Excellent IT and communication skills and a strong self-directed work ethic are essential.
Main duties of the job
The post holder will be responsible for delivering a high-quality service covering a range of specialised investigations in the haematological malignancies, while ensuring work is carried out to a high standard and within relevant target reporting times.
As required and depending on training, the post holder will undertake specialised analytical tests, including RT-PCR for measurable disease monitoring, fragment analysis for chimerism monitoring, FLT3/NPM1 analysis, Next Generation Sequencing assays, microarray karyotyping and ddPCR. This will involve performing the tests, including the use and maintenance of liquid handling robots, stock control, trouble shooting, and training of staff and liaising with companies who provide reagents and equipment. Assisting with quality management to maintain compliance with UKAS standards is a core aspect of the role.
For efficient operation of the laboratory, staff may be required to assist with processing clinical samples, booking in, maintain laboratory equipment and general clerical and administrative duties, including, but not limited to, SOP writing and assisting with audits. Excellent IT skills are essential. Previous experience in a haemato-oncology molecular diagnostic laboratory is highly desirable.
Working for our organisation
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 / 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.
We will assist you to maintain a portfolio that demonstrates CPD achievement and is compliant with the requirements of ongoing HCPC registration. We support flexible working patterns and remote working for activities that can be performed off-site to promote a healthy work/life balance.
Detailed job description and main responsibilities
Technical and Scientific
1. To be able to undertake activities requiring prolonged concentration and attention to details in accordance with Standard Operating Procedures (SOP’s) and Health and Safety Regulations.
2. Undertake training and development to successfully acquire core competencies necessary for performance as a Genetic Technologist and thereafter maintain the required standards of competence
3. The role will be to undertake a range of molecular techniques including, but not limited to, RT-PCR for measurable disease monitoring, fragment analysis for chimerism monitoring and FLT3/NPM1 analysis, ddPCR, Next Generation Sequencing using targeted gene panels, microarray karyotyping, and analysis of Whole Genome Sequencing data.
4. To assist in the development and implementation of new tests under the direction of senior staff. They will be expected to write new Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) as necessary, and review/update existing SOPs on a regular basis using the laboratory document management system.
5. Analyse data and prepare diagnostic reports ready for authorisation
6. Contribute to a comprehensive diagnostic service through participation in all aspects of the LMH workload when required. Key duties include sample booking into the LIMS, preparing reagents, stock control, supervision and training of personnel and maintenance of laboratory equipment and assist with the quality management in maintaining compliance to UKAS standards. The specific duties carried out will depend on the allocated area of work, but staff are expected to be flexible and to work in any area of the department as required subject to training and service need.
7. To be personally responsible for the time management of multiple tasks and to respond to the changing requirements of the laboratory by accommodating additional tasks and responsibilities as required. Complete other appropriate duties as directed by the line manager in the work area.
8. Liaise with users of the service or the clinical team, as necessary, including direction of enquiries to the appropriate member of staff.
9. Perform Quality Control procedures relevant to the work area, applying necessary judgement to the initial analysis of results and referring any inconsistencies to the appropriate State Registered Scientist.
10. Develop and improve scientific expertise via Continuing Professional Development (CPD) and remain up to date with scientific and technical developments in the field.
Laboratory Informatics
11. Comply with local and national policies for the safe, secure and confidential processing and storage of patient and other confidential laboratory information
12. Be familiar with and proficient in the use of patient databases in accordance with the relevant SOPs.
13. Records are kept up to date and stored safely to ensure compliance with good work practices required for the standards of UKAS accreditation.
14. Maintain the integrity and accuracy of laboratory databases.
Strong IT skills, including proficient use of the Laboratory Information System (LIMS) and clinical databases in accordance with the relevant SOPs
Communication
15. Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Maintain good working relations with all members of staff, and promote effective teamwork while recognising others’ skills and priorities.
16. Communicate with support services and suppliers for orders/issues as necessary.
Quality & Clinical Governance
17. Ensure adherence to the standards required for a UKAS accredited laboratory, in close liaison with the Quality Lead.
18. Maintain the highest levels of patient confidentiality, and comply with Trust and other relevant standards. Comply with local and national policies for the safe, secure and confidential processing and storage of patient and other laboratory information
Health and Safety/Risk Management
19. The post holder has a general duty of care for the health, safety and well-being of work colleagues and visitors within the laboratory environment. Employees must be aware of the responsibilities placed on them under the Health and Safety at Work Act (1974).
20. Work within the LMH and the Rayne Institute’s Health and Safety Policy and Local Codes of Practice, and maintain Health and Safety Standards in the laboratory.
Synnovis is a pathology partnership between SYNLAB UK and Ireland, and the NHS, including sites, Guy’s & St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust and King’s 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.
King’s College Hospital Foundation Trust is one of the UK’s leading NHS Foundation Trusts in specialist teaching. King’s has various divisions including Neurosciences, Haematology, Cancer and Cardiovascular sciences, where there are unlimited opportunities to develop and perfect your career.
Over the last 170 years, King’s has delivered nothing but world class service to all its patients from deprived communities as well as some of the wealthiest in London
Person specification
Qualifications
Essential criteria
21. BSc Hons Biomedical Sciences or equivalent.
Desirable criteria
22. Higher degree in the biological sciences State Registration
Experience
Essential criteria
23. Experience in routine molecular diagnostic laboratory including: DNA and RNA extraction, automated sample handing systems, RT-PCR, fragment analysis
24. Practical and/or sound theoretical knowledge of Next Generation Sequencing or microarray karyotyping.
25. Experience of Laboratory Information Systems
26. Experience of troubleshooting laboratory processes and investigating non-conformances
27. Knowledge and understanding of health and safety in a diagnostic laboratory setting
Desirable criteria
28. Have worked in a cancer diagnostic laboratory.
Skills & Knowledge
Essential criteria
29. Competent in the interpretation and technical validation of results
30. Knowledge of Quality Management, Quality Control and Assurance
31. Excellent general IT skills.
Desirable criteria
32. Familiar with haematological malignancies, with knowledge of the genes and molecular markers which are routinely tested for and monitored.
33. Familiar with clinical report writing. Experience of UKAS accreditation or performing audits.
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:
34. Contributory pension scheme
35. Generous annual leave entitlement
36. 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.