Genomic Practitioner in Exeter

The Genomic Practitioner role is designed to support the Clinical Genetics service and will have a role in several areas within the South West Clinical Genetics service – supporting whole genome sequencing [WGS] (including documenting consent and management of sample pathway), gathering sensitive patient and family history information for informed triage decision making and supporting the clinical team with pre- and post- clinic information required to ensure efficient patient care.

More detail about the role South West Clinical Genetics are delighted to have an opening for a Genomic Practitioner within our developing and growing service. The service covers the populations of Devon, Cornwall, Somerset, Bristol, Bath and Gloucester. The Genomic Practitioner will work alongside the Genetic Counselling and Consultant Geneticist teams to support the delivery of a high-quality clinical genetics service. This role will involve elements of direct clinical care, supporting the whole genome sequencing pathway, MDT coordination and family information management.

The Genomic Practitioner will be responsible for sensitively gathering information from patients as part of specific triage requests, before and after clinics to support their assessment, including personal medical information and family history details. This information will be added to the electronic patient record system (EPIC), and family history software (Phenotips) so that it can be utilised for risk assessment and clinical assessment. They will support adding details to patient registries for inherited and rare disease such as NICPR.

They may be asked to focus on a specific area of care, such as the inherited cardiac service, and have the opportunity to support and participate in multi-disciplinary meetings (such as collating agenda items, minute taking etc), and requests to support clinicians with case reviews. With guidance, the Genomic Practitioner will liaise with other departments and NHS trusts to obtain relevant information, including confirming diagnoses and test results. They will arrange access or obtain information regarding stored DNA or tumour samples for future testing.

With clinical guidance and supervision, they will write standard response letters for patients who do not require an appointment with the service. The post holder will have a direct clinical role in supporting the consent and sample process for patients who have been identified for Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) testing. They may be asked to act as a chaperone in clinic. If phlebotomy trained, they may support obtaining blood samples from patients.

This role requires excellent interpersonal abilities, attention to detail, experience in a clinical setting and strong organisational skills. The ideal candidate will have an interest in, and some prior knowledge of clinical genomics. You will be supported by clinical leadership within Clinical Genetics.

The South West Clinical Genetics Service includes offices in Exeter, Plymouth, Truro, Taunton and also Bristol, Bath and Gloucester. The post holder would ideally be based in the Exeter office. Our welcoming team includes Genetic Counsellors, STP trainees, Genetic Consultants, Specialist Registrars as well as an excellent Family History and Administrative team. The area offers a high quality of life. The region is located close to miles of stunning coastline, national parks such as Dartmoor and enjoys a lively cultural scene.

Working Pattern: Monday to Friday, 9-5

As an inclusive employer, the Royal Devon values diversity and is committed to creating a culture of inclusivity where everyone can be themselves and reach their full potential. We believe in fostering a sense of belonging and actively encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, cultures, and abilities. We recognise the advantages of having a diverse workforce that reflects the communities we serve.

Preference will be given to staff with ‘Priority’ and 'At Risk' status including NHS At Risk staff throughout Devon. The Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust reserves the right to close vacancy when sufficient applications have been received.

The Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust was established in April 2022, bringing together the expertise of both the Royal Devon and Exeter NHS Foundation Trust and Northern Devon Healthcare NHS Trust.

About Us Stretching across Northern, Eastern and Mid Devon, we have a workforce of over 15,000 staff, making us the largest employer in Devon. Our core services, which we provide to more than 615,000 people, cover more than 2,000 square miles across Devon, while some of our specialist services cover the whole of the peninsula, extending our reach as far as Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. We deliver a wide range of emergency, specialist and general medical services through North Devon District Hospital and the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital (Wonford). Alongside our two acute hospitals, we provide integrated health and social care services across a variety of settings, including community inpatient hospitals, outpatient clinics, and within people’s own homes. We also offer primary care services, a range of specialist community services, and Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARC).

Our state-of-the-art equipment, leading technologies and strong links to local universities put us at the forefront of research and innovations, enabling us to provide world-class care to our local communities. Our values are at the heart of everything we do, It has never been a more exciting time to join the Royal Devon, as you will help to shape our services as we continue along our integration journey.

Looking after you is important to us. We strive to help our staff create a healthy work-life balance through flexible working schemes and our family friendly policies. If you are starting out in the NHS, you’ll start with 27 days paid annual leave (plus bank holidays), rising to 33 days plus bank holidays. You will benefit from access to our own comprehensive occupational health services, including counselling, onsite wellbeing activities and groups. We will work together to maintain a culture that develops and supports you and your team. This might include funding for a care certificate, a degree or leadership qualifications. Or it might include days off to study, engage in CPD or rotational placements to help you hone your skills. Wherever you are heading in the NHS, we will help you get there.

Salary is not the only financial benefit You will have access to an extensive range of staff discounts on shopping, fitness and leisure options and you can spread the cost of technology and home appliance purchases from major retailers. You will also have access to other benefits including: National discount services such as the Blue Light Card and Health Service Discounts. Salary sacrifice options including our OFSTED rated outstanding nursery onsite at Exeter Car lease schemes. The NHS Pension scheme (one of the most generous and comprehensive in the UK). Cycle to work scheme.

These are just a few of the benefits available – if the role is something you are interested in, we would love to hear from you.