Genetic Technologist

We are seeking an enthusiastic Genetic Technologist to work in The Laboratory for Molecular Haemato-Oncology (LMH) 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 that make up the SE-HMDS, including immunophenotyping and cytogenetics.

The laboratory performs a range of specialised analytical tests, including RT-PCR for measurable disease monitoring, fragment analysis for chimerism monitoring and FLT3/NPM1 analysis, Next Generation Sequencing using targeted gene panels, microarray karyotyping, analysis of Whole Genome Sequencing data and ddPCR.

You must have substantial experience in a molecular diagnostics setting. Excellent communication skills and a strong self-directed work ethic are essential. The primary role will be performing, analyzing and interpreting a range of molecular testing offered by the LMH, with an emphasis on NGS variant and SNP-A microarray data, as well as contributing to the development and validation of new tests, maintaining compliance with the National Test Directory and satisfying our UKAS accreditation requirements.

The post holder will be responsible for delivering a high-quality service covering a range of specialised investigations. The role involves data analysis, result evaluation, interpretation and reporting of haematological malignancies, ensuring work is carried out to a high standard and within relevant target reporting times.

The primary responsibility of the role will be to undertake specialised analytical tests by performing, analysing and interpreting a range of molecular testing offered by the LMH, with an emphasis on NGS variant and SNP-A microarray data.

As part of a fast-paced LMH service, the post holder will, when needed, also perform other molecular investigations including RT-PCR for measurable disease monitoring, and fragment analysis for chimerism monitoring and FLT3/NPM1 analysis. This will involve performing the tests, including the use and maintenance of liquid handling robots, stock control, troubleshooting, and training of staff. 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, maintain laboratory equipment and general clerical and administrative duties. Occasional flexibility in working hours may be needed, with time off in lieu. Good communication, team working and supervisory skills are essential.

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.

Technical and Scientific:

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. Undertake training and development to successfully acquire core competencies necessary for performance as a Genetic Technologist and thereafter maintain the required standards of competence.

The primary responsibility of the role will be to:

1. Undertake the analysis of Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) using Haemato-Oncology targeted panels, and SNP-A karyotyping.
2. Perform the tests offered by the LMH in line with own individual competencies, such as RT-PCR for measurable disease monitoring, fragment analysis for chimerism monitoring and FLT3/NPM1 analysis, Next Generation Sequencing using targeted gene panels, microarray karyotyping, ddPCR and analysis of Whole Genome Sequencing data.
3. Carry out analysis and interpretation of data using a range of software tools.
4. Interpret results in the LIMS and prepare reports ready for authorisation.
5. Ensure work is carried out to a high standard and within relevant target reporting times.

The role will also be 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.

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, preparation of samples for analysis including extraction, quantification, and storage in line with own individual competencies, 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.

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.

Liaise with users of the service or the clinical team, as necessary, including direction of enquiries to the appropriate member of staff.

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.

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:

Comply with local and national policies for the safe, secure and confidential processing and storage of patient and other confidential laboratory information.

Be familiar with and proficient in the use of patient databases in accordance with the relevant SOPs.

Records are kept up to date and stored safely to ensure compliance with good work practices required for the standards of UKAS accreditation to ISO 15189:2012.

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:

Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Participate in departmental meetings to communicate results and their clinical implications.

Maintain good working relations with all members of staff and promote effective teamwork while recognising others’ skills and priorities.

Communicate with support services and suppliers for orders/issues as necessary.

Quality & Clinical Governance:

Ensure adherence to the standards required for a UKAS ISO15189-accredited laboratory, in close liaison with the Quality Lead.

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:

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).

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.