Associate Practitioner

Job Summary

University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust is delighted to offer a fantastic opportunity. The Microbiology and Virology Department at UHS is excited to advertise an opportunity for an Associate Practitioner with a strong background in clinical laboratory experience to work throughout different sections within the department across our 24/7 shift pattern.

The department processes over 1,000,000 specimens per year. We employ almost 100 staff and provide a comprehensive 7‑day service covering bacteriology, mycobacteriology, mycology, virology, serology, parasitology and molecular testing.

We are IBMS accredited for pre‑registration training and specialist training in medical microbiology, virology and infectious science. Please note high volume of applications may result in the advert closing early.

University Hospital Southampton is one of England's largest acute teaching Trusts, offering a wide range of learning and development opportunities to support your career aspirations.

Located on the south coast with an international airport and direct rail links to London, Southampton offers an ideal setting to live and work, with the New Forest, South Downs and Jurassic Coast.

We believe that using technology wisely shows strong time management and commitment to innovation. Personalising your recruitment application to highlight your unique skills and experiences is crucial. Relying too heavily on generic, AI‑generated content instead of drawing from your own strengths and accomplishments may lead to your application being rejected if multiple candidates present identical or similar information.

At UHS we’re committed to providing a flexible working environment where possible. Whether you are balancing family, study, or your wellbeing with your career, we want to support you so you can help our patients.

We proudly champion individuality, recognising that outstanding care is only possible with a diverse, inclusive team. We’re committed to creating an anti‑racist, anti‑discriminatory environment where everyone feels valued, safe and empowered to make a meaningful impact in our communities. We welcome applicants of all backgrounds, identities and experiences to join us in building a healthcare community where everyone can belong, thrive and contribute.

Date posted 13 February 2026

Pay scheme Agenda for change

Band Band 4

Salary £27,485 to £30,162 a year per annum, pro rata

Contract Permanent

Working pattern Full‑time, Part‑time

Reference number 188‑CL130226

Job locations PAT Pathology Microbiology, Tremona Road, Southampton, SO16 6YD

The Microbiology and Virology Department at UHS is excited to advertise an opportunity for an Associate Practitioner with a strong background in clinical laboratory experience to work throughout different sections within the department across our 24/7 shift pattern.

The department processes over 1,000,000 specimens per year. We employ almost 100 staff and provide a comprehensive 7‑day service covering bacteriology, mycobacteriology, mycology, virology, serology, parasitology and molecular testing.

We are IBMS accredited for pre‑registration training and specialist training in medical microbiology, virology and infectious science. Please note high volume of applications may result in the advert closing early.

• GCSE A level A to C or equivalent in at least two of Maths, English and Science or NVQ Level 3 Health (Pathology Support Worker) plus additional laboratory experience or Foundation Degree in Laboratory Sciences; completion of an internal multidisciplinary laboratory training course
• Previous experience in laboratory work
• Able to handle biological samples in both closed and open containers

• Previous knowledge of hospital IT systems

• Demonstrable experience in clinical laboratory
• Experience with handling electronic data and fluent keyboard skills
• Experience of setting up and implementing internal processes and procedures

• Patients First
• Always Improving
• Working Together

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