Genetic Technologist in Birmingham

The West Midlands Genomics Laboratory is recruiting for Academy for Healthcare Science (AHCS) registered Genetic Technologists. The post that is currently available is for a permanent Genetic Technologist (AfC band 5), however we are also advertising pre-emptively for future positions, both permanent and fixed term, that may become available. The department is located at the Birmingham Women's Hospital and is the lead laboratory in the Central and South Genomic Laboratory Hub, the largest of the seven national GLHs, performing in excess of 100,000 tests per annum.

The department performs a wide range of genomic testing using a large variety of testing methodologies in order to fulfil the requirements of the National Genomic Test Directory. We are looking for highly motivated individuals who are committed to a career in laboratory diagnostic genetics. Applicants should have good interpersonal skills and be capable of working under pressure to tight deadlines. They should be team players, looking to expand their knowledge and experience in diagnostic genetics, have a strong interest in driving and improving the quality of diagnostic services and be able to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team. Understanding of genomic technology and some experience in the interpretation of scientific data are desirable.

Main duties of the job:

• Undertake technical and analytical duties within a specified sub-section(s) of the laboratory.
• Perform standard highly accurate technical processes associated with testing for genetic disorders and carry out the analysis of data relating to this genomic testing.
• Communicate complex technical, scientific and often sensitive information to colleagues within the department in both verbal and written forms.
• Provide training and supervision of Healthcare Science Assistants and coaching in specific techniques for all laboratory staff grades.
• Observe and maintain a high standard of laboratory health, safety and risk procedures; work to departmental Standard Operating Procedures and current professional standards.

Informal enquiries welcome, please contact Laura Ford on 0121 335 8036.

Birmingham Women's and Children's NHS Foundation Trust is the first of its type in the UK. Our Trust was formed in February 2017 to drive forward our commitment to provide the highest quality, world-class physical and mental health care for our women, children and families. Uniting our hospitals means more seamless care; more investment to make greater advances in our specialist treatment and world-leading neo-natal and fetal work. Importantly, it also gives us a greater voice in shaping the future of family-centred care. Our Trust is committed to creating the best place to work. We believe in promoting and enhancing inclusion, diversity and equality and encourage applications from all areas of the community, who meet the criteria for the role, regardless of age, gender identity, disability, race, religion or sexual orientation.

Job responsibilities:

Please refer to the attached job description and person specification to view the full details for this opportunity at Birmingham Women's and Children's NHS Foundation Trust. We invite applications from individuals who are registered as a Genetic Technologist with the Academy for Healthcare Science (AHCS) or equivalent. However, we also invite applications from individuals with appropriate qualifications and experience who are willing to work towards registration. Reporting directly to Senior Genetic Technologists, the successful candidates will join a specified sub-section(s) of the laboratory, as appropriate to their expertise and experience, with previous practical laboratory experience being an essential requirement to this role. When completing your application, please ensure you have evidenced how you meet the job description and person specification to include transferable experience, qualifications, skills along with professional registration details (if applicable). Occasionally we receive a large number of applications for our roles and when that happens we sometimes bring the closing date forward, so please apply promptly to avoid disappointment.

Other requirements:

• Availability for late and early cover, bank holiday and weekend working as required.
• Flexibility in approach towards working hours.
• Ability to travel to other locations as required.

Qualifications:

• BSc. in a Biological Science, or equivalent experience.
• Commitment to work towards registration with the appropriate body within an agreed reasonable time following appointment.
• Active participation in CPD.
• Registration with the Academy for Healthcare Science or other appropriate Healthcare Science registration body.
• ACC/CMGS Certificate Competence in Genetic Technology; or equivalent training or MSc or PhD.

Knowledge & Nature of experience:

• Experience in performing genetic laboratory techniques.
• Sound knowledge of quality issues.
• Good understanding of Health & Safety.
• Ability to work with a team but also on own with minimum supervision.
• Significant experience in a genetic diagnostic laboratory at career framework level 5, or equivalent.
• Experience of report writing.
• Experience of cytogenetic or molecular analysis.
• Knowledge of the principles of human diagnostic genetic testing.

Analytical & Judgement skills:

• Excellent technical and analytical skills.

Professional/Managerial/Specialist/Knowledge:

• Computer literate (Microsoft Access, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint and Word).
• Ability to demonstrate Trust values.

Personal Skills/Abilities & Attributes:

• Good written and verbal communication skills.
• Interest in genetics in a clinical environment.
• Flexible approach to work.
• Ability to work under pressure.
• Ability to critically appraise.
• Meticulous attention to detail.
• Supervisory skills.
• Training/coaching skills.
• Enthusiasm to promote integrated working practices.

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 a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.