Biomedical Scientist - Microbiology

Role Overview

If you are intrigued by virology, passionate about mycology, or enjoy detective work related to identifying unusual microorganisms, this opportunity is perfect for you. We are seeking a Band 5/6 HCPC-registered Biomedical Scientist specialized in Microbiology to join our team at Royal Preston Hospital, part of Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.

Work Environment

Our laboratory is a highly active and well-equipped setting, processing over 500,000 specimens annually including urine, fecal matter, blood, and swab samples from both hospital and community patients in the Preston and South Ribble region. We operate under UKAS (ISO15189) accreditation and serve as an approved training laboratory by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS).

Key Responsibilities

• Identify pathogens responsible for diseases by analyzing bacterial cultures and interpreting serological data to assist infection diagnosis.
• Support clinicians by providing critical diagnostic information that guides appropriate patient treatment.
• Maintain and troubleshoot various automated laboratory systems such as BacTAlert, Vitek2, MALDI-TOF, Vidas, and Cobas 4800.

Candidate Profile

You should be passionate about delivering high-quality work that benefits patient care. The ideal candidate will be highly motivated, proficient with computers, possess strong interpersonal communication skills, and uphold the values of the Trust at all times. Although experience in NHS laboratories is preferred, we offer comprehensive training with support from a dedicated expert team to ensure competence across all areas.

Working Hours and Conditions

This is a full-time position involving 37.5 hours per week between 8am and 8pm, including weekends and bank holidays. Part-time hours may be negotiable. After an initial training period, participation in an out-of-hours on-call rota for urgent samples will be required.

About the Trust and Development Opportunities

Our team looks after approximately 370,000 individuals in the immediate locality and provides specialist healthcare services to 1.5 million people across Lancashire and Cumbria. Working here offers a deep sense of pride as every task contributes significantly to patient and staff wellbeing. We provide diverse professional development opportunities, the chance to acquire new skills, and collaboration with colleagues from various hospital roles to enrich your career.

Contact Information

For more details or to arrange an informal visit, please reach out to Victoria Travis, Lead Biomedical Scientist at victoria.travis@lthtr.nhs.uk or call 01772-522114.

Alternatively, contact Dawn Dixon, Head Biomedical Scientist, at 01772-522114.