Medical Laboratory Assistant

Unilabs is one of Europe\’s leading diagnostic providers, delivering high-quality laboratory, imaging and pathology services across the UK and internationally. Guided by our CARE BIG philosophy, we are committed to excellence in diagnostics and patient care. We are seeking a Medical Laboratory Assistant (MLA) to join our Tissue Sciences team. Working under indirect supervision, the post holder will support the delivery of an efficient, accurate and high-quality histopathology service. The role involves rotating through laboratory areas to maintain competency across techniques and providing essential laboratory support activities that do not require HCPC registration.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Carry out laboratory support and technical tasks under the supervision of MTOs and Biomedical Scientists.
• Perform specimen reception duties, including checking samples, liaising with users and ensuring accurate data entry.
• Use Pathology IT systems and LIMS in line with authorised protocols, maintaining data integrity and confidentiality.
• Prepare, pack and dispatch samples to internal and external laboratories.
• Prepare reagents, solutions and consumables in accordance with SOPs.
• Perform basic equipment maintenance, quality control checks and record keeping.
• Manage stock levels, rotate consumables and maintain accurate inventory records.
• Archive tissue samples, blocks and slides and ensure safe disposal of specimens.
• Support quality management systems through audits, documentation and continuous improvement.
• Maintain a clean, safe and organised laboratory environment, complying with health & safety and infection control standards.
• Support training and mentoring of other MLAs where required.
• Communicate effectively with laboratory colleagues to ensure timely and accurate service delivery.
• Participate in CPD, training programmes and departmental meetings.

Qualifications & Education

• 2 A-levels or equivalent
• 5 GCSEs (Grade C/4 or above) including Maths, English and Science
• Science A-level (desirable)

Experience

• Experience working in a busy laboratory or similar environment
• Understanding of health & safety in a laboratory setting
• Experience working as part of a team
• Knowledge of quality management systems and laboratory protocols (desirable)
• Experience in stock management (desirable)

Skills & Abilities

• Strong organisational skills with high attention to detail
• Good IT skills, including Microsoft Office
• Ability to work accurately for long periods of time
• Flexible, reliable and able to work under pressure
• Ability to follow written protocols and methodologies
• Prepared to work with biological materials
• Strong problem-solving skills and self-motivation

Communication

• Clear written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary team
• Strong awareness of GDPR and confidentiality requirements

Other Requirements

• Commitment to patient confidentiality
• Ability to perform light physical work
• Professional, responsible and adaptable approach to work

Seniority level: Entry level. Employment type: Full-time. Job function: Health Care Provider. Industries: Non-profit Organizations and Primary and Secondary Education.