Bank - Specialist Biomedical Scientist; Microbiology

Job Summary

We are seeking an enthusiastic Specialist Biomedical Scientist with excellent interpersonal skills and a high degree of self-motivation to join our Bank. This role provides specialist technical expertise in the Bacteriology and Virology sections within the laboratory.

• Technical Duties:
  Perform specialized tasks in the Bacteriology and Virology sections, authorise specific result types, oversee and supervise Medical Laboratory Assistants (MLAs) and Assistant Practitioners (APs), and manage the use and maintenance of laboratory equipment.
• Quality and Project Management:
  Participate in validation and verification projects, take responsibility for a specific technical function within the laboratory.
• Development and Support:
  Stay updated with scientific advancements and managerial developments in the field; support senior staff and the Laboratory Manager in providing an efficient, expert, and cost-effective laboratory service; take on additional laboratory responsibilities with appropriate support and training.

Routine hours are Monday to Friday, 08:45 to 17:15 (37.5 hours per week).

Specialist Biomedical Scientists (BMS) play a crucial role in the laboratory team, responsible for diagnosing infections and disease processes. They leverage the latest scientific knowledge and methods, while also utilizing traditional techniques when necessary. Specialist BMS conduct and interpret laboratory tests, providing essential data to clinical staff for accurate diagnoses and evaluating the effectiveness of treatments.

Our STAR values — Service, Teamwork, Ambition and Respect — guide our work as we deliver joined-up services to the local community. Our goal is to empower individuals to lead independent and healthier lives, whether at home, in the community, or within the hospital.

Date posted: 04 February 2026

Pay scheme:
Agenda for Change

Band:
Band 6

Salary: £38,682 to £46,580 a year (Based on experience)

Contract:

Bank

Working pattern:
Full-time

Reference number:

Job locations:
Great Western Hospital, Marlborough Road, Swindon, SN3 6BB

Job responsibilities

• Act in accordance with and adhere to laboratory and Trust procedures and protocols at all times.
• Work under the direction of Senior BMS staff in the provision of a diagnostic Microbiology service, within departmental guidelines and safety policies.
• Be responsible for health and safety issues pertinent to diagnostic laboratory work, adhering to Trust and laboratory Health and Safety policies and Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) regulations.
• Rotate through all sections of the Bacteriology department after suitable training and competency verification.
• Participate in mandatory Trust training requirements and attend training sessions, educational meetings and laboratory meetings as appropriate.
• Aim to provide a quality-driven, patient-centered service and participate in the laboratory’s quality management procedures.
• Escalate issues compromising quality or safety to more senior staff/Laboratory Management as appropriate.
• Be courteous and professional when dealing with other health care professionals or patients.

Please see attached Job Description for full details.

Essential

• BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science (Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS) approved) or equivalent
• Current registration with the Health & Care Professions Council (HCPC)
• IBMS Specialist diploma in Medical Microbiology

Desirable

• MSc Medical Microbiology (or equivalent experience/qualification)
• Quality Management training
• Health & Safety training
• Parasitology training
• Mycology training

Experience

• In-depth experience of working in all areas of a Medical Microbiology laboratory, post HCPC registration
• Previous experience of working alone out of hours

Desirable Experience

• Quality Management experience
• Health & Safety Management experience

Disclosure and Barring Service Check:
This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and requires submission for Disclosure to the Disclosure and Barring Service.

Certificate of Sponsorship:
Applications from job seekers who require current Skilled worker sponsorship to work in the UK are welcome and will be considered alongside other applications.

UK Registration:
Applicants must have current UK professional registration. See NHS Careers for details.

Employer name:
Great Western Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust

Address:
Great Western Hospital, Marlborough Road, Swindon, SN3 6BB

Employer's website: