Medical Laboratory AssistantinBrightoninBrightonPUBLISHED FRI 28 MAR 2025
Opportunity to work in a dynamic environment at a recognized institution like the Royal Sussex County Hospital.
Experience in handling a variety of specimens across multiple specialities, enhancing professional skills and knowledge.
Comprehensive training provided, making it accessible for individuals without prior experience in the field.
Contributions directly impact patient care and diagnostic accuracy, adding value to the role.
Supportive workplace culture that values diversity and includes comprehensive staff wellbeing programmes.
Exposure to cutting-edge laboratory technology and practices in a leading healthcare research environment.
Clear career development pathways and the chance to participate in accreditation activities to further professional growth.
Join our committed team at the Royal Sussex County Hospital in Brighton as a Medical Laboratory Assistant with University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust. We’re searching for enthusiastic individuals who possess excellent interpersonal skills and a passion for making a difference. In our bustling Cellular Pathology department, you’ll play a vital role in supporting numerous specialities, from oncology to paediatrics, while ensuring that every patient receives the highest standard of care. Your contributions will include managing specimen data, preparing samples, and assisting our dedicated medical and scientific teams.
At UHSussex, we embrace diversity as our greatest strength, and we believe that a supportive work environment enables everyone to flourish. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just beginning your journey, we provide full training to help you succeed. Plus, with our comprehensive Wellbeing Programme, you’ll have access to resources that prioritise your health so you can best support others. If you’re ready to grow with us and help shape the future of healthcare, we can’t wait for you to apply and join our community that truly values the work you do.
At UHSussex, we embrace diversity as our greatest strength, and we believe that a supportive work environment enables everyone to flourish. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just beginning your journey, we provide full training to help you succeed. Plus, with our comprehensive Wellbeing Programme, you’ll have access to resources that prioritise your health so you can best support others. If you’re ready to grow with us and help shape the future of healthcare, we can’t wait for you to apply and join our community that truly values the work you do.
Opportunity to work in a dynamic environment at a recognised institution like the Royal Sussex County Hospital.
Experience in handling a variety of specimens across multiple specialities, enhancing professional skills and knowledge.
Comprehensive training provided, making it accessible for individuals without prior experience in the field.
Contributions directly impact patient care and diagnostic accuracy, adding value to the role.
Supportive workplace culture that values diversity and includes comprehensive staff wellbeing programmes.
Exposure to cutting-edge laboratory technology and practices in a leading healthcare research environment.
Clear career development pathways and the chance to participate in accreditation activities to further professional growth.
Job Summary
The Cellular Pathology laboratory at the Royal Sussex County Hospital, Brighton is looking for a enthusiastic and self motivated person with good interpersonal skills to join our busy Histopathology Medical Laboratory Assistant team.
UHSx East Cellular pathology receives approximately 34,000 Histology requests and 5,000 Cytology requests per annum, with all the routine technical work being performed at RSCH.
The department provides a service for a wide variety of specialities, which include Renal Medicine, Oncology, Breast Pathology, and Paediatrics as well as to the Brighton & Sussex Medical School.
The successful applicant must be conscientious and enthusiastic and able to work well as part of a team and under pressure. Good hand eye coordination and attention to detail are essential requirements.
The successful applicant must also have good communication and IT skills and willbe expected to participate fully in the accreditation activities of the department.
Relevant experience would be an advantage but full training will be provided.
Candidates looking for a Trainee Biomedical Scientist position or a progressional need not apply.
Main duties of the job
The post will involve supporting the department in providing diagnostic Cellular Pathology services and includes specimen data entry, specimen preparation, assisting the medical and scientific team during specimen dissection, matching completed cases for final quality control check, machine operation and maintenance, dealing with telephone enquiries; stock control; and laboratory waste disposal.
This position will be based at the Royal Sussex County Hospital, working and the post-holder will be held accountable to the HR policies and procedures of UHSx.
About Us
At UHSussex, diversity is our strength, and we want you to feel included to help us always put the Patient First, as shown in ourOutstanding for Caring CQC rating. Your uniqueness and experiences will be part of our creative and innovative community where everyone is encouraged to succeed. We have a range of Staff Networks to help break down barriers, and can offer a buddy to help new members settle in. We're proud to be a Disability Confident Employer (Level 2) and a Veteran Aware Trust.We treat our patients and staff with the same compassion and empathy we expect for ourselves. We're here for them when they need us, and we go above and beyond to meet their needs. This can be seen in our Wellbeing Programme for staff which is extensive and designed to support you when you need it - because we know that to look after others we must first look after ourselves.As a university trust and a leader in healthcare research, we value learning, teaching and training so that we can be the best that we can be. From the moment you start with us and throughout your career we will help you to grow and develop. We hope that in choosing UHSussex you are choosing a long and happy career where you will be able to see the difference you make and feel valued for all that you do.
Date posted
21 March 2025
Pay scheme
Agenda for change
Band
Band 3
Salary
£24,to £25,674 a year per annum
Contract
Permanent
Working pattern
Full-time
Reference number
279-7059671-MAR25
Job locations
Royal Sussex County Hospital
Eastern Road
Brighton
BN2 5BE
Job Description
Job responsibilities
Scientific & analytical
Job responsibilities
Scientific & analytical
The Cellular Pathology laboratory at the Royal Sussex County Hospital, Brighton is looking for a enthusiastic and self motivated person with good interpersonal skills to join our busy Histopathology Medical Laboratory Assistant team.
UHSx East Cellular pathology receives approximately 34,000 Histology requests and 5,000 Cytology requests per annum, with all the routine technical work being performed at RSCH.
The department provides a service for a wide variety of specialities, which include Renal Medicine, Oncology, Breast Pathology, and Paediatrics as well as to the Brighton & Sussex Medical School.
The successful applicant must be conscientious and enthusiastic and able to work well as part of a team and under pressure. Good hand eye coordination and attention to detail are essential requirements.
The successful applicant must also have good communication and IT skills and willbe expected to participate fully in the accreditation activities of the department.
Relevant experience would be an advantage but full training will be provided.
Candidates looking for a Trainee Biomedical Scientist position or a progressional need not apply.
Main duties of the job
The post will involve supporting the department in providing diagnostic Cellular Pathology services and includes specimen data entry, specimen preparation, assisting the medical and scientific team during specimen dissection, matching completed cases for final quality control check, machine operation and maintenance, dealing with telephone enquiries; stock control; and laboratory waste disposal.
This position will be based at the Royal Sussex County Hospital, working and the post-holder will be held accountable to the HR policies and procedures of UHSx.
About Us
At UHSussex, diversity is our strength, and we want you to feel included to help us always put the Patient First, as shown in ourOutstanding for Caring CQC rating. Your uniqueness and experiences will be part of our creative and innovative community where everyone is encouraged to succeed. We have a range of Staff Networks to help break down barriers, and can offer a buddy to help new members settle in. We're proud to be a Disability Confident Employer (Level 2) and a Veteran Aware Trust.We treat our patients and staff with the same compassion and empathy we expect for ourselves. We're here for them when they need us, and we go above and beyond to meet their needs. This can be seen in our Wellbeing Programme for staff which is extensive and designed to support you when you need it - because we know that to look after others we must first look after ourselves.As a university trust and a leader in healthcare research, we value learning, teaching and training so that we can be the best that we can be. From the moment you start with us and throughout your career we will help you to grow and develop. We hope that in choosing UHSussex you are choosing a long and happy career where you will be able to see the difference you make and feel valued for all that you do.
Date posted
21 March 2025
Pay scheme
Agenda for change
Band
Band 3
Salary
£24,to £25,674 a year per annum
Contract
Permanent
Working pattern
Full-time
Reference number
279-7059671-MAR25
Job locations
Royal Sussex County Hospital
Eastern Road
Brighton
BN2 5BE
Job Description
Job responsibilities
Scientific & analytical
- Follows standard operating procedures at all times
- Participates in data entry for cellular pathology samples.
- Understand the urgency of requests; prioritising work according to SOPs.
- Checks samples before processing for identification, status and suitability for diagnostic investigations, referring to a BMS when necessary.
- Prepare specimens, making decisions from a range of options on the type of process to be used e.g. fixation, wet preparations, referral to another area of Pathology if appropriate.
- Assist the Consultant Pathologist, Registrar or BMS at the specimen dissection bench, recording details and check specimen details.
- Undertake routine maintenance and troubleshooting on complex equipment to ensure correct functioning
- Load slide scanners as and when directed
- Matchs completed cases for final quality control check
- Prepare reagents, stock solutions and laboratory disinfectants as directed.
- Cleans and disinfects equipment and work areas as appropriate
- Report anomalies to senior staff according to SOPs.
- Help maintain the filing system of slides and blocks.
- To be aware of and work within own technical competence
- Suggests changes to protocols/ Policies where appropriate.
- Works within SOPs and policies to ensure high quality data, thus maintaining the integrity and accuracy of laboratory databases. Recognises data quality problems and brings to the attention of senior staff.
- Attends training on the use of display screen equipment and ensures that working practices comply.
- Reports any non-functional hardware to senior staff.
- Uses the laboratory information management system according to authorised protocols. Uses quality management system for read only access
- Complies with local and national policies for the safe, secure and confidential processing and storage of patient and other laboratory information.
- Uses the laboratory information management systems and Open Exeter to access results as required.
Job responsibilities
Scientific & analytical
- Follows standard operating procedures at all times
- Participates in data entry for cellular pathology samples.
- Understand the urgency of requests; prioritising work according to SOPs.
- Checks samples before processing for identification, status and suitability for diagnostic investigations, referring to a BMS when necessary.
- Prepare specimens, making decisions from a range of options on the type of process to be used e.g. fixation, wet preparations, referral to another area of Pathology if appropriate.
- Assist the Consultant Pathologist, Registrar or BMS at the specimen dissection
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The National Health Service (NHS) is a cornerstone of healthcare in the United Kingdom, established in 1948 with the simple yet profound principle of providing healthcare to all citizens, free at the point of use. This revolutionary system aimed to ensure that access to medical services would not depend on an individual’s financial situation, a concept that has since become fundamental to British societal values.Learn more...
Useful skills for a Medical Laboratory Assistant:
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To work as a Medical Laboratory Assistant (MLA) in the UK, you'll need a combination of technical skills, interpersonal skills, and relevant qualifications. Here are some key skills and attributes required for the role:
Technical Skills:
1. Laboratory Techniques: Knowledge of techniques and procedures used in the laboratory, including sample collection and handling, preparation of specimens, and testing processes.
2. Quality Control: Understanding of quality assurance and quality control procedures to ensure accurate and reliable test results.
3. Equipment Operation: Familiarity with laboratory equipment and instruments, including microscopes, centrifuges, and analysers.
4. Health and Safety: Knowledge of health and safety regulations and protocols, including infection control and waste disposal.
5. Basic Computing Skills: Proficiency in data entry, using laboratory information management systems (LIMS), and basic use of Microsoft Office applications.
6. Data Interpretation: Ability to assist in the analysis and understanding of test results.
Interpersonal Skills:
1. Communication Skills: Strong verbal and written communication skills to interact effectively with laboratory staff, clinicians, and patients.
2. Teamwork: Ability to work collaboratively with other healthcare professionals in a team-oriented environment.
3. Attention to Detail: Precision and carefulness when handling samples and recording results to avoid errors.
Organizational Skills:
1. Time Management: Ability to prioritize tasks and manage time effectively, especially in a fast-paced environment.
2. Problem-Solving: Critical thinking skills to troubleshoot and resolve issues that may arise during laboratory processes.
Qualifications:
- Educational Background: While not always essential, a relevant qualification, such as a Level 2 or Level 3 Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology, can be beneficial. A background in biology or chemistry may also enhance your employability.
- Experience: Previous experience in a laboratory setting, either through work or voluntary roles, is often advantageous.
Other Attributes:
- Professionalism: High ethical standards and professionalism in handling sensitive patient information.
- Adaptability: Ability to adapt to changes in technology and practices within the laboratory environment.
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