Advanced Biomedical Scientist – Section Leader

Advanced Biomedical Scientist – Section Leader

Apply for the Advanced Biomedical Scientist – Section Leader role at Freeman Hospital.

The Department of Microbiology and Virology seeks an experienced and enthusiastic Advanced Biomedical Scientist to assist the Operational Site Manager in delivering an efficient and timely TB Service to the Trust, community and wider region.

We welcome all applications irrespective of people’s race, disability, sex, sexual orientation, religion or belief, age, gender identity, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity and in particular those from under‑represented groups.

• Interview Date:
  Friday, 23 January 2026
• Hours:
  
  37 hours 30 minutes per week
• Location:
  
  Freeman Hospital, Newcastle upon Tyne
• Band: 7

• Ensure appropriate laboratory diagnostic tests are performed using knowledge, judgement, and technical expertise.
• Lead and supervise Biomedical Scientists and Healthcare Science Practitioners (HCSPs) within the Mycobacterial section.
• Maintain work standards and day‑to‑day performance, organising, supervising, and directing staff.
• Develop specialist knowledge in clinical technical situations and train staff, students, and visitors.
• Manage supplies, equipment maintenance, and consumables for the section.
• Participate in quality assurance programmes, investigate incidents, initiate remedial action, and report to Laboratory Management.
• Support management in maintaining accreditation status (UKAS, HTA, MHRA, HSE).
• Provide coverage for out‑of‑hour shifts, including Saturdays, Sundays, and bank holidays as required.
• Work in compliance with health and safety rules and report non‑compliances.

• BSc in Biomedical Science or equivalent.
• Health & Care Professions Council registration.
• Completion of the IBMS Specialist portfolio or equivalent experience at specialist level in Microbiology or Virology.
• Level 7 qualification (MSc, IBMS Higher Specialist Diploma or NSHCS Scientist Training Programme).
• Experience in leadership and management is desirable.

• Previous experience in Serology or Virology as a Biomedical Scientist.
• Experience in training and assessment.
• Experience in quality management systems (audit, EQA & IQC).
• Experience in maintaining and troubleshooting equipment.
• Good general computer literacy, including familiarity with Windows and common applications.
• Willingly accepts responsibility and takes control of situations.
• Use of bespoke IT software packages (e.g., analyser middleware systems) is desirable.
• Experience in research and development and familiarity with current UKAS accreditation standards is desirable.

• Effective communication skills.
• Evidence of effective leadership skills.
• Strong analytical, organisational and planning skills.
• Able to understand complex problems quickly and to identify workable solutions.
• Ability to multitask and manage time effectively.
• Good hand‑eye coordination.
• Ability to act independently, use initiative and delegate.
• Keyboard and IT related skills are desirable.

All references must cover a minimum of 3 years of employment. Failure to complete this section may result in the application not being processed.

Successful candidates who require a DBS for the post must pay for the DBS certificate; the payment will be deducted from the first month’s pay.

Shortlisted candidates will be contacted by e‑mail. If you have not been contacted within four weeks of the closing date, the application has likely been unsuccessful.

• JD & PS (PDF, 138.9 KB)
• Newcastle Staff Benefits (PDF, 274.4 KB)
• Behaviour and Civility Charter (PDF, 93.8 KB)

Name:
Martin Appleby –

Job title:

Healthcare Scientist – TB
Email address:
Telephone number: 0191 21 39604