Healthcare Science Assistant

The Microbiology and Virology Services Department is looking to recruit enthusiastic individuals to join the dynamic team as a Healthcare Science Assistant. Healthcare Science Assistants process a wide range of clinical samples and enter data onto the laboratory computer system (LIMS). Other duties include answering telephones, reception duties, handling reports and discarding of laboratory waste.,

• To ensure samples are processed correctly according to departmental SOPs
• Ensure that samples arriving in the laboratory are checked and correctly input into LIMS system to ensure patient safety
• Courteously and professionally answer telephone calls from a variety of service users including GPs. Give out authorised results and transfer calls as appropriate to ensure efficiency
• Ensure stocks of reagents are maintained and that the work section is always clean and tidy
Applicants need to have a positive approach and be flexible to assist in all sections of the department as required to meet workflow. Good communication skills are essential. Previous experience of working in a clinical microbiology/virology department is desirable. The successful applicant will be expected to participate in late shifts, weekend and Bank Holiday working once suitably trained.

As a flexible working friendly organisation, we want to be sure that you can work in a way that is best for us and for our patients, and for you. Speak to us about how we might be able to accommodate a flexible working arrangement. If it works for the service, we will do our best to make it work for you.

With around 2 million contacts with patients every year, we deliver care from:
• Royal Victoria Infirmary (RVI)
• Freeman Hospital
• Newcastle Dental Hospital
• Cramlington Manor Walks
• Urgent treatment centres
• Newcastle Fertility Centre
• Northern Centre for Cancer Care, North Cumbria
• Northern Genetics Service
These include a range of flagship services which deliver cutting-edge care (supported by state-of-the-art diagnostic services in both radiology and pathology) and are a catalyst for innovation to support pioneering clinical practice in the NHS. We also have offices at Regent Point in Gosforth and community sites.