Specialist Biomedical Scientist(UK Visa Sponsorship)

Job Description

About the Role

Great Ormond Street Hospital NHS Foundation Trust is seeking an experienced and motivated HCPC-registered Biomedical Scientist to join the Flow Cytometry section within the Specialist Integrated Haematological Malignancy Diagnostic Service (SIHMDS).

This laboratory plays a crucial role in diagnosing and monitoring paediatric blood cancers and related disorders. The service also contributes to national and international research projects, including clinical trials involving advanced treatments such as CAR-T cell therapy.

Working within a highly specialised laboratory team, you will support diagnostic services while helping maintain high standards of scientific accuracy, patient safety and laboratory quality assurance.

About the Laboratory Service

The SIHMDS Flow Cytometry laboratory specialises in the investigation and monitoring of:

• Paediatric haematological malignancies
• Platelet function disorders
• Red cell membrane abnormalities
• Certain solid tumours such as neuroblastoma

The department also supports innovative clinical trials involving emerging treatments, including CAR-T therapy for acute leukaemias affecting B-cell, T-cell and myeloid cell lines.

Key Responsibilities

Technical and Scientific Duties

You will contribute to routine diagnostic services and research by:

• Performing laboratory investigations in accordance with established standard operating procedures
• Preparing and analysing patient samples using flow cytometry technologies
• Supporting assay validation and development within the laboratory
• Maintaining accurate records and ensuring data integrity
• Operating and maintaining specialised laboratory equipment
• Troubleshooting technical issues relating to instruments or assays

Quality and Compliance

You will help maintain high laboratory standards by:

• Supporting quality management systems aligned with UKAS accreditation requirements
• Participating in internal quality assurance procedures
• Maintaining strict confidentiality of patient information in line with data protection regulations
• Contributing to department audits and service improvement initiatives

Clinical Contribution

The role also involves:

• Analysing and reporting laboratory results at routine diagnostic level
• Ensuring results are delivered within agreed turnaround times
• Adding relevant clinical comments when required
• Advising clinical teams regarding appropriate diagnostic investigations

Professional Development and Training

Working at Great Ormond Street Hospital NHS Foundation Trust provides access to extensive training opportunities.

You will be encouraged to:

• Participate in Continuing Professional Development (CPD) activities
• Attend scientific seminars, training sessions and professional workshops
• Take part in the Trust’s annual Performance Development Review (PDR) process
• Support training and mentoring of junior staff and trainees
• Maintaining professional registration with the Health and Care Professions Council is essential for this role.

About the Organisation

Great Ormond Street Hospital NHS Foundation Trust is one of the world’s leading paediatric hospitals, providing specialist care to children and young people with complex conditions.

The Trust is recognised internationally for its commitment to:

• Clinical excellence
• Innovative research
• Compassionate family-centred care

The hospital promotes a diverse and inclusive workplace where staff are supported to grow and thrive professionally.

Employee-led staff networks and diversity initiatives help foster a culture where everyone feels respected, valued and included.

Person Specification

Essential Qualifications

Applicants must have:

• BSc in Biomedical Science or equivalent qualification
• Current registration with the Health and Care Professions Council
• Specialist portfolio, MSc qualification or equivalent experience in haematology laboratory practice

Essential Experience and Knowledge

Candidates should demonstrate:

• Experience working within a clinical haematology laboratory
• Knowledge of NHS pathology laboratory operations
• Understanding of quality assurance standards and UKAS accreditation
• Experience working with laboratory quality management systems

Desirable Experience

• Practical experience in flow cytometry or immunophenotyping
• Experience working with paediatric samples

Skills and Abilities

Applicants should possess:

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to work independently and manage workload efficiently
• Specialist diagnostic laboratory skills in haematology
• Teaching and mentoring abilities

Visa Sponsorship and Immigration Guidance

Applications are welcome from candidates who may require Skilled Worker visa sponsorship, subject to eligibility and UK immigration regulations.

Helpful UK government guidance includes:

• Skilled Worker visa overview
• Working in healthcare in the UK
• UK Visas and Immigration information
• Criminal record checks for overseas applicants
• Disclosure and Barring Service guidance

These official resources explain immigration rules, background checks and requirements for healthcare professionals working in the UK.

Safeguarding and Background Checks

Due to regular contact with vulnerable patients, this role requires a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check in accordance with the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions Order).

Application Advice

Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications early, as the vacancy may close before the stated deadline if a high number of applications is received.

Only candidates who clearly demonstrate how they meet the essential criteria in the person specification will be shortlisted for interview.