The Welsh Transplantation Laboratory has a vacancy for an enthusiastic, well‑organised and self‑motivated individual to join our team as an Associate Practitioner. The Welsh Transplantation Laboratory is a busy Histocompatibility and Immunogenetics Laboratory based within the headquarters of the Welsh Blood Service in Talbot Green, approximately 12 miles from Cardiff. The laboratory offers a wide range of laboratory testing to support patient care in Wales including kidney, pancreas and haemopoietic stem cell transplantation, platelet immunology, and disease association testing services.
The laboratory has an excellent record in training and development, making it an ideal environment for individuals who wish to progress their career within the field of Healthcare Science.
We are looking for an individual with a keen interest in laboratory science who can work flexibly within a team of laboratory staff. You will perform a range of laboratory testing including sample receipt and data entry; preparation and processing of samples; and performance of laboratory assays. You will rotate through the laboratory sections during your employment, gaining experience in a variety of different laboratory techniques including genetic tests (next generation sequencing, RT‑PCR) and serological (Luminex based HLA antibody testing) methodologies.
Main duties of the job
- The post holder will work autonomously in accordance with defined policies and procedures referring to HCPC Registered Scientists as required.
- The post holder will be responsible for managing and prioritising their own workload according to agreed parameters.
- The post holder will assist in the preparation, processing, testing and analysis of patient and donor samples.
- Receive, check sample suitability, validate identifiers and log samples into laboratory database, assigning tests required according to agreed profiles.
- Prepare genomic DNA, serum and lymphocytes from blood and other sources for use in laboratory assays.
- Provide Human Leucocyte Antigen (HLA) typing services for clinical diagnosis of patient and donor samples using a range of DNA‑based techniques (e.g., RT‑PCR, NGS).
- Perform clinical HLA‑antibody screening and definition testing of patient samples using Luminex assays.
- Prepare and dispense laboratory chemicals and reagents in accordance with laboratory usage and current/projected usage.
- Interpret and assign individual test results in accordance with agreed criteria.
- Assist in maintaining a programme of cleaning, decontamination and basic preventative maintenance of equipment and the completion of appropriate records.
- Use specialist scientific equipment requiring a high degree of concentration, coordination, accuracy and precision (e.g., DNA sequencers, Luminex analyser).
