Job overview
We are looking for an experienced HCPC registered Specialist Biomedical Scientist to join Clinical Biochemistry at UHSussex based at RSCH, Brighton, and PRH, Hayward's Heath. This post is fully rotational around all areas of the lab including Automation (RSCH/PRH), and Specialist Biochemistry & Toxicology (RSCH). The department is UKAS accredited and holds IBMS laboratory training approval to deliver registration and specialist training.
You will work with a friendly, dynamic team to assist in provision of a routine and specialist biochemistry service. The automated section consists of Cobas 8000s and C8100 pre-analytics. The Specialist Biochemistry service is well equipped for for services such as ICP-MS trace metal analysis, First Trimester screening, Toxicology and a variety of manual techniques boasting an extensive repertoire of state-of-the-art equipment such as high-resolution mass spectrometry, LC-MS, GC-MS, ICP-MS, gel/capillary electrophoresis, IFE electrophoresis and FTIR-ATR amongst others.
You will undertake a range of complex investigations using a variety of techniques including manual, semi-automated and automated methods to assist in the diagnosis of disease and monitoring of treatment.
This post requires 24/7 shift working, including nights, weekends and bank holidays at both sites, subject to competency assessment.
We welcome applications from Band 5 biomedical scientists working towards their IBMS specialist portfolio (~75% completion).
Main duties of the job
1. Analyses samples according to the departmental Standard Operating Procedures (including the requesting of tests and reporting of results) using highly complex analysers, or performing highly complex techniques and informs senior staff of any proposed changes to SOP’s.
2. Undertakes/oversees planned preventative maintenance on highly complex, expensive and specialised analysers to ensure correct functioning. Records problems and troubleshoots or refers to senior members of staff.
3. Prioritises workload according to national guidelines. Understands the clinical urgency of requests and the impact on patient care (i.e. the 4hr wait in A&E).
4. Performs calibrations on all methods, informs senior staff of any problems.
5. Performs and verifies quality control samples (including checking quality control charts) to ensure accuracy and precision. Carries out corrective action to ensure all analyses are performing within defined parameters. Understands the use of statistical parameters for mean and SD.
6. Performs external quality assurance analysis on highly specialised analysers
7. Participates in out-of-hours arrangements, when assessed as competent to do so to provide a 24/7 emergency and routine biochemistry service.
8. Undertakes analytical validation of results produced
9. Checks all samples before processing for status & suitability
10. Interprets results and clinical history to ensure patients receive correct therapy.
Working for our organisation
At UHSussex (UHSx), diversity is our strength, & we want you to feel included to help us always put the Patient First. Your uniqueness & experiences will be part of our creative and innovative community where everyone is encouraged to succeed. We have a range of Staff Networks to help break down barriers, & can offer a buddy to help new members settle in. We’re proud to be a Disability Confident Employer (Level 2) & a Veteran Aware Trust.
We treat our patients & staff with the same compassion & empathy we expect for ourselves. We’re here for them when they need us, and we go above & beyond to meet their needs. This can be seen in our candidate information pack & wellbeing programme, for staff which is extensive & designed to support you when you need it, including where possible, flexible working to support work life balance - because we know that to look after others we must first look after ourselves.
As a university trust and a leader in healthcare research, we value learning, teaching & training so that we can be the best that we can be. From the moment you start with us & throughout your career we will help you to grow & develop. We hope that in choosing UHSx you are choosing a long & happy career where you will be able to see the difference you make & feel valued for all that you do.
We look forward to receiving your application & the start of your journey with UHSx.
Detailed job description and main responsibilities
Please see JD and PS for full details.
11. Has an extensive knowledge of the disease process and the clinical relevance and appropriateness of diagnostic tests requested. Therefore understands why certain tests (including the abbreviations and medical terminology) are requested in certain pathological situations.
12. Communicates with the requesting physician to discuss the suitability of tests requested and discuss the availability of further tests which might contribute to diagnosis/patient management. Also discuss with senior member of staff if appropriate/available.
13. Validates results according to the SOP. Interprets results in conjunction with previous results (delta checks). Requests further work according to SOP, refers to senior staff upon completion of further work.
14. Handles unsuitable samples for example if taken from drip arm, too old, incorrectly labelled (according to departmental policy), insufficient volume to ensure reliability and validity of sample and will request repeat bloods be taken accordingly.
15. Phones highly complex and potentially sensitive results to clinicians ensuring results are understood and transcribed correctly. Acts on or refers phone calls received to appropriate area of lab.
Person specification
HCPC registered
Essential criteria
16. HCPC registered
Specialist Portfolio
Essential criteria
17. Specialist portfolio in Clinical Biochemistry
2 years NHS lab experience
Essential criteria
18. 2 years NHS lab experience in Clinical Biochemistry
Desirable criteria
19. Experience of specialist biochemistry techniques
Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion
Essential criteria
20. Evidence of having undertaken own development to improve understanding of equalities issues.
21. Evidence of having championed diversity in previous roles (as appropriate to role).
Important information for applicants:
A Note on AI Use in Applications
We value the individuality and authenticity that each candidate brings to the application process. While AI tools are increasingly accessible, we strongly discourage their use in completing your application. Your responses should reflect your own voice, experiences, and motivations—elements that are essential to a fair and accurate evaluation.
Applications that rely heavily on AI-generated content may misrepresent your abilities and could result in your application being rejected. We encourage you to take the time to present your genuine self, as this helps us better understand your potential and ensures a transparent selection process.
Closing Adverts Early: In the event of exceptional interest, we may close adverts earlier than specified.
Some of our adverts are capped for a limited number of applications; therefore, the advert will close once the cap has been reached. We therefore encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible if you are interested in the position to prevent you from missing out on applying for the opportunity.
Flexible Working: If you would like to explore potential options regarding flexible working please speak with the appropriate recruiting/line manager.
DBS Checks: As part of our commitment to a safe working environment, we undertake a Disclosure and Barring Service check on all new employees where the role is eligible for a criminal record check. We make offers in line with the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1975.
Skilled Worker Visa: Applications for Skilled Worker sponsorship are welcome for the roles that meet the Visa and Immigrations eligibility criteria. For further information please visit the gov.uk website searching for Skilled Worker. It is your responsibility as the applicant to ensure that you meet this criteria.
UHSussex reserves the right to close the role early if we receive a high volume of applications