Senior Cytogeneticist in London

A permanent post has arisen within the Cytogenetics department of HSL for a Registered Clinical scientist (Senior Cytogeneticist- band 7 equivalent) or a scientist who is working towards HCPC registration (Cytogeneticist- band 6 equivalent). HSL is a progressive partnership between The Doctors Laboratory, Royal Free London and University College London Hospitals foundation trusts. HSL is one of the largest providers of ISO accredited pathology services to NHS trusts and private practices both in the UK and worldwide. HSL genetics is a friendly team dedicated to providing a high quality and innovative service wherein the patient always comes first.

Main duties of the job

This position is offered within the constitutional cytogenetics section which processes over 10,000 samples a year. In this section we perform karyotyping, FISH and Microarrays on a range of sample types including postnatal & fetal bloods, amniocentesis, CVS and product of conception samples. The position offered is flexible, we can support a full‐time or part‐time arrangement with the option of a hybrid working from home pattern.

We are looking for a dedicated scientist with significant cytogenomic experience, with a sound understanding of cytogenetic techniques and analysis. Good interpersonal and troubleshooting skills are required. The salary offered will be commensurate with experience & qualifications.

About us

• Training and development opportunities supporting professional development
• Annual salary review - No banding restrictions: As we are a private company we are not restricted by salary bandings and so are able to negotiate appropriate salaries based on experience. This also means that annual salary reviews do not hit a band ceiling.
• Discounted gym membership we have a corporate gym membership scheme with Better Gyms
• Cash healthcare plan cash back on a variety of healthcare costs including dentist and opticians
• Sick Pay Entitlement 5 paid days in the first year of employment, 20 days thereafter
• Permanent Health Insurance and Death in Service Cover
• Life Assurance providing salary continuation for long term illness (six months qualifying period)
• Employee Assistance Programme supporting staff wellbeing
• Season Ticket Loan Scheme interest free loan for the cost of annual travel ticket
• Perkbox Access to additional staff perks and benefits such as high street discounts
• Company Pension Scheme company and staff contributions which increase with service
• Competitive annual leave allowance 28 days
• Flexible working hours we support and offer flexibility around shift patterns and working schedule

Job responsibilities

• Undertake diligent cytogenomic analysis, checking and report writing (and signatory/authorisation) on a range of specimen types.
• Participate in clinical decision making, such as test suitability, prioritisation, analytical requirements and need for further studies where appropriate.
• Be responsible for the organisation and performance of clinical laboratory tests and liaise with colleagues to ensure target deadlines are met.
• Provide clinical interpretation, validation and entry of results within the LIMS in preparation for reporting by authorised individuals.
• Demonstrate problem solving skills in relation to any matters which may affect service provision or quality.
• Take part in Joint Annual Reviews, attend laboratory meetings, participate in departmental audits, training seminars, monthly training reviews and CPD activities as required.
• Provide training and guidance to less experienced members of staff.
• Participate in creating and monitoring effective internal quality control schemes and to participate in external schemes e.g. GENQA and ISO 15189 accreditation.
• Maintain high quality standards in compliance with best practice guidelines, local policies, the Quality Management Group and ISO 15189.
• Contribute in ensuring continuing adequate maintenance, repair and safety of all departmental equipment.
• If involved in laboratory activities (laboratory duties may not necessarily be assigned to particular individuals) to be aware of those procedures that include: Maintenance and implementation of departmental policies and procedures for safe and efficient working.
• Good housekeeping and technical working practices.
• Protect the health and safety of departmental staff and ensure compliance with the Company safety policy and legal requirements under the guidance of the Health & Safety Officer.
• Be familiar with the laboratory IT system as appropriate for the discharge of your duties.
• Adhere to and actively promote the Sonic/HSL Core Values.
• Commit to service excellence.
• Treat others with respect and honesty. To grow a workplace where trust, team spirit, and equity are an integral part of everything we do.
• Demonstrate responsibility and accountability. To set an example, to take ownership of each situation to the best of our ability, and to seek help when needed.
• Be enthusiastic about continuous improvement. To never be complacent, to recognise limitations and opportunities for ourselves and processes; and learn through these.
• Maintain confidentiality. To keep all information pertaining to patients, as well as professional and commercial issues, in strict confidence.
• Communicate in a friendly, helpful and non‐prejudicial manner in your dealings with staff and service users as you will be regarded as a representative of your department as well as the company, and you should behave accordingly. Matters regarding patients are confidential and must not be discussed except in the course of your duties. You will be expected to sign an undertaking to observe all patient and company confidentiality.
• Be aware of and abide by the rules and codes of conduct of the company. To have in a professional and responsible manner and co‐operate with all other members of staff at all times.
• Undertake other duties as specified by your line manager, HOD and the TDL/HSL Genetics Laboratory Management team.

Person Specification

• Science degree or equivalent. Completion of ACS or AHCS approved or equivalent genetic training scheme.
• HCPC registration or evidence of working towards registration.
• Relevant experience of working within the cytogenetic/genetics field as a clinical scientist or trainee scientist.
• To include: G‐band analysis of constitutional chromosome preparations.
• Experience of Haemato‐oncology/microarrays or NGS is advantageous but not required.
• Experience of clinical decision making, interpretation and report composition. Ability to perform case complete role.
• Experience of contribution to laboratory quality in line with ISO 15189.
• Active participation in CPD and ability to train/advise less experienced staff members.

Disclosure and Barring Service Check

This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.

Depending on experience Up to £63,176 per annum DOE