Senior Biomedical Scientist

Overview

Our Cytology Department is looking for a motivated, enthusiastic Senior Biomedical Scientist to join the team. The role involves being a team leader in a large department with responsibilities for screening and checking cytology slides, reporting screening programme results, and preparing diagnostic samples. There are staff management responsibilities such as sick leave management and training, and a significant role in the quality management system of the department.

• Function as cytology checker to assess suspicious and abnormal cervical smears, along with more difficult cases, and screen slides as required.
• Participate in the supervision, training and development of staff in the department.
• With the Lead BMS and other senior staff, contribute to the development of services to meet user requirements.
• Manage, lead and take responsibility for the day-to-day functioning of an agreed designated area within the Cytology service (areas may include):
• Laboratory training officer
• Quality lead
• Health and safety lead
• IM&T lead
• Failsafe officer
• Diagnostic Cytology (Non-Gynae)
• Be responsible for the day-to-day supervision of staff within their section and participate in staff appraisal / PDP according to Trust policies and procedures.
• Participate in recruitment with senior Cytology and Laboratory Manager staff; organise and deliver induction and training of Biomedical Scientists, trainees and Medical Laboratory Assistants.
• Participate in competency assessments and assist in performance management of Biomedical Scientists, trainees and Medical Laboratory Assistants.
• Provide cover for other BMSs and more senior staff as required.
• Function as supervisor and trouble-shooter for Cervical Cytology, HPV testing or Non-Gynae Cytology; manage day-to-day organisation and staffing in a section.
• Assess suspicious and abnormal cervical smears with senior staff and pass abnormal cases to Consultant grade staff; issue reports on abnormal and negative cases as appropriate.
• Interpret and technically validate routine and specialist diagnostic test results, including reporting specialist tests (e.g., crystal analysis).
• Contribute to discussions of workflow patterns and methodology; maintain cleanliness and maintenance of laboratory equipment.
• Participate in quality assurance procedures including internal and external quality control.
• Maintain records and investigations related to patient follow-up (failsafe) and participate in the screening of non-gynaecological cases.
• Participate in all technical aspects of Cytology as appropriate, including primary cervical screening and rapid review, specimen reception, preparation, HPV testing and staining.
• Manage resource requirements within the section, including ensuring adequate supplies, initiating requisitioning, prioritising work and troubleshooting problems.
• Participate in evaluation and validation of new methods and equipment; ensure risk management processes, including adverse incident reporting, comply with policies.
• Participate in audits, research, and development/ introduction of new techniques and systems of work; respond to complaints with the Lead BMS as appropriate.
• Work according to laboratory procedures and assist in their development and review; adhere to Health and Safety regulations and codes of practice relevant to the department.

Senior Biomedical Scientist with leadership experience in Cytology and a track record of staff supervision, training, appraisal, recruitment and competency assessment within a hospital laboratory setting.

North Bristol NHS Trust employs over 12,000 staff and operates from the award-winning Southmead site. The Trust welcomes applicants from diverse backgrounds in line with its commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion.