Medical Laboratory Assistant

The Laboratory Assist/Technologist will rotate through the Clinical Genomics laboratories providing technical support across specimen reception, data entry, sample prioritisation and distribution, training and support activities such as quality, equipment maintenance and audits. The position requires meticulous attention to detail, autonomous working and teamwork to achieve high‑standard clinical service.

Responsibilities

• Collect different types of biological samples from the main pathology laboratories, minor procedures, theatres, and switchboard during the day, including late samples, while maintaining all relevant audit trails.
• Receive and check specimens against request forms, liaise with clinical staff regarding labelling errors, handle high risk specimens and address leaking/damaged samples.
• Prioritise samples according to SOPs and laboratory requirements.
• Input patient‑related data from external referral hospitals, wards and clinical areas into IT systems.

Laboratory Duties

• Take day‑to‑day responsibility for the quality of technical work undertaken.
• Ensure the timely and efficient provision of technical duties.
• Sort fixed cell suspensions for safe disposal or transfer into labelled containers for long‑term storage.
• Sort samples for short‑term storage or safe disposal.
• Prepare and package samples for safe transport to other centres.
• Use laboratory equipment for preparation of samples and reagents, monitor safety and performance, and advise staff of any deviations from normal parameters.

General Duties

• Provide cover for colleagues and junior staff during leave or absence.
• Participate in training and assessment for specified tasks, completing programmes to maintain a satisfactory level of competence.
• Assist in the preparation of SOPs and local policies.
• Inform Laboratory Management/senior staff of laboratory procedures, risk assessment, COSHH and local safety rules.

Qualifications and Experience

• A Level in a science subject or equivalent.
• Experience working in a relevant laboratory, preferably in cytogenetics and molecular diagnostics techniques.
• Competency in specimen processing, data entry, sample packaging, and equipment maintenance.
• Experience with laboratory information systems.

Additional Requirements

• Work a rotational shift system to support extended service hours.
• Annual flu vaccination is mandatory for all patient‑facing staff.

Diversity and Inclusion

The Royal Marsden values diversity and is committed to the recruitment and retention of under‑represented minority groups, including Black, Asian, minority ethnic candidates, LGBTQ+ candidates and those with disabilities. All applicants will be considered, and we are a Disability Confident Employer.

We reserve the right to close this advert early if a sufficient number of applicants are received. Applicants are advised to submit applications as early as possible to prevent disappointment.

The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust is a world‑leading cancer centre, employing over 4,500 staff across diverse careers. Our mission is to offer the best cancer care worldwide, providing a dynamic environment with learning, development and career pathways.