HODS Clinical Scientist

An exciting opportunity has arisen to work within the Merseyside and Cheshire Haemato-Oncology laboratory (HODS), based at the Royal Liverpool Hospital, part of Liverpool University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.

The service holds the majority of testing modalities including Flow cytometry, bone marrow aspirate/peripheral blood morphology, histology & immunohistochemistry, molecular genetics, with Karyotyping, FISH and SNP array provided by Manchester Foundation Trust.

We are looking for a motivated Clinical Scientist, with experience in human molecular genetic diagnostics and excellent interpersonal skills. The successful candidate will have the ability to critically analyse and interpret scientific data, and compile comprehensive, integrated reports including complex genomic results.

Applicants should be capable of working under pressure to tight deadlines and be able to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team. They should have good organisational skills, be able to work methodically with great attention to detail and have a strong interest in driving and improving the quality of diagnostic services.

They will work alongside the Senior Clinical Scientist and provide clinical leadership and expert knowledge in the field. The successful candidate will also work within a close and friendly team of HCPC registered scientists, deputise for the Senior Clinical Scientist in their absence, and participate in the duty scientist rota.

Main duties of the job

In conjunction with senior laboratory staff, the post-holder will undertake the scientific duties and responsibilities of a clinical scientist in the provision of a comprehensive, modern, high quality Haemato-Oncology diagnostic service, including clinical genetics, at Liverpool University Hospitals Foundation Trust. This will involve delivering a range of specialist molecular diagnostic tests for the diagnosis of haematological malignancies.

The post holder will be expected to draft and authorise molecular genetic diagnostic reports in line with the services provided by the department. The post holder will also provide clinical and scientific advice to other health professionals including senior medical staff, on the selection, performance and interpretation of highly complex molecular genetic investigations as well as attend MDTs where necessary to provide skilled interpretation of molecular results applicable to a clinical context. The post holder will participate in research and development, innovation and clinical audit where necessary.

Job responsibilities

To process and be proficient in a range of diagnostic, analytical techniques used in the laboratory. To check the analytical work of other clinical scientists and non-registered analysts. To have a broad understanding of the pathology of haematological malignancies, and to show a keen interest in building this expertise up over a period of time.

To undertake all laboratory procedures required for the processing of patient samples.

To identify when techniques related to the processing of specimens are not working optimally. To apply critical analysis and judgement skills to ensure that the problem is resolved. To communicate where appropriate with more senior staff for advice.

To take responsibility for their own work and to undertake an appropriate proportion of the total workload of the laboratory.

To liaise with laboratory users, to understand their needs and to work with the senior laboratory to ensure that services are responsive to changing requirements.

To assist in the documentation and investigation of service delivery issues notified by laboratory users and to ensure relevant departments are informed and appropriate action is taken.

To provide interpretation of the results of highly complex diagnostic investigations and advice that will contribute to patient management.

Person Specification

Qualifications

Essential

• MSC or PhD or equivalent experience
• HCPC registration as Clinical Scientist

Experience

Essential

• Evidence of experience providing diagnostic genetic testing using DNA sequencing including Next Generation sequencing (NGS), DNA fragment analysis and other DNA based techniques
• Evidence of appropriate practical experience
• Evidence of in-house staff training
• Evidence of previous experience in ordering consumables/services

Desirable

• Evidence of external staff training

Knowledge

Essential

• Knowledge of laboratory accreditation requirements (UKAS) according to ISO15189
• An understanding of genome annotation and the use of web-based browsers to interrogate genomic information
• Knowledge of the genetic basis of human disease

Desirable

• Experience of generating and participating in collaborative research projects

Employer details
Employer name
Liverpool University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Address
Liverpool Clinical Laboratories
Liverpool
L7 8YE