Job overview

We are seeking a talented and driven biomedical scientist to join our Multi-disciplinary team delivering the NHS Respiratory Metagenomics service as part of a National programme. The role offers a unique opportunity to work with colleagues across the NHS, UKHSA and Oxford Nanopore Technologies and will locally support transformative innovation in the diagnosis of infectious disease for CUH patients.

The metagenomics workflow comprises differential depletion of human nucleic acids, long read sequencing using Nanopore technology and identification of microorganisms in the sample through application of a bespoke bioinformatics pipeline. Results are then interpreted and reported via LIMS to clinicians. The successful candidate will also support ongoing laboratory projects. They will have excellent communication skills and an ability to work collaboratively across organisational boundaries.

Main duties of the job

This NHS role is based within the UKHSA Clinical Microbiology and Public Health laboratory, Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge. The successful candidate will be responsible for the performance of manual, semi-automated, specialist and fully automated laboratory investigations within a defined service accurately and efficiently, with an awareness of infection risks associated with respiratory pathogens.

They will work to a high standard in a molecular laboratory environment, minimising contamination at all stages of the workflow through good technique and thorough decontamination. The post holder is expected to perform troubleshooting independently and to understand likely points of failure. In addition, the role involves performing stock check and ensuring efficient use where appropriate.

The post holder is responsible for processing quality control material, recording and interpreting results and clear communication of findings to the clinical scientists. If corrective actions are needed, these should be carried out promptly and effectively. They will carry out work to support validation / verification when the laboratory protocol is updated and assist in preparing related documentation.

Working for our organisation

Our Trust

Cambridge University Hospitals (CUH) NHS Foundation Trust comprises Addenbrooke’s Hospital and the Rosie Hospital in Cambridge. With over 13,000 staff and over 1100 beds the priorities of the Trust focus on a quality service which is all about people – patients, staff and partners. Recognised as providing ‘outstanding’ care to our patients and rated ‘Good’ overall by the Care Quality Commissioner, is testament to the skill and dedication of the people who work here. CUH’s values – Together - Safe, Kind, Excellent – are at the heart of patient care, defining the way all staff work and behave. The Trust provides accessible high-quality healthcare for the local people of Cambridge, together with specialist services, dealing with rare or complex conditions for a regional, national and international population.

CUH is committed to promoting a diverse and inclusive community - a place where we can all be ourselves. We value our differences and fully advocate and support an inclusive working environment where every individual can fulfil their potential. We want to ensure our people are truly representative of all the communities that we serve. We welcome applications for all positions in the organisation irrespective of people’s age, disability, ethnicity, race, nationality, gender identity, sex, sexual orientation, religion or belief, marriage and civil partnership status, or pregnancy and maternity status or social economic background.