NHS NATIONAL SERVICES SCOTLAND
NATIONAL MICROBIOLOGY REFERENCE UNIT (NMRU)
BLOOD TISSUE AND CELLS
SENIOR RESEARCH ASSOCIATE / CLINICAL SCIENTIST
12 MONTHS FIXED TERM CONTRACT / SECONDMENT
Band 6 – Salary Scale: £26,041 to £34,879
LOCATION: EDINBURGH
As a major division within the NHS National Services Scotland, the Scottish National Blood Transfusion
Service (SNBTS) plays a vital role not only in the health of the people of Scotland but also on an
international scale. We contribute and collaborate within the UK and internationally, significantly in
biomedical research, blood screening and donor services. Our goal is to maintain the highest standards to
patient care.
The National Microbiology Reference Unit (NMRU) is part of the Scottish National Blood Transfusion Service
with laboratories currently situated in Edinburgh and Glasgow, although the laboratories will relocate to a
central Edinburgh site in 2017. The function of the NMRU is to provide both a frontline screening and
confirmatory testing service for departments within the SNBTS as well as other health services in order to
maintain the safety of the blood supply and blood products. A research associate / clinical scientist is
required to carry out nucleic acid amplification technology (NAT) testing for a variety of viral markers in order
to provide a confirmatory testing service for serologically reactive samples and perform epidemiological
surveys.
You should hold an honours degree in Life Sciences or other similar, relevant qualification and be proficient
in standard Microsoft Office computer software. Knowledge of molecular biology techniques and Polymerase
Chain Reaction (PCR) are required for this position.
The successful candidate(s) must comply with the Mandatory Induction Standards and with the
Code of Conduct for Healthcare Support Workers.
Our benefits package includes final salary pension scheme, comprehensive range of work life balance
policies, occupational health services, learning resource centres and discounted leisure, financial and
shopping benefits.
For an informal discussion please contact Dr Lisa Jarvis, Head of NMRU on 0131 314 5661.
For an application pack please complete the online application form on the SHOW website
www.jobs.scot.nhs.uk. Ref G24221.
Closing date for completed applications is 12 noon on 29 July 2014
Please note that only those applicants called for an interview will be contacted. If you have not received a response
within 4 weeks of the closing date, please assume that you have been unsuccessful on this occasion.
Further information on NSS is available from: www.nhsnss.org.
NHS National Services Scotland is the common name of the Common Services Agency for the Scottish Health Service.
NHS National Services Scotland is an equal opportunities employer.
Candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum selection criteria will be guaranteed an interview.
SNBTSS168
NHS NATIONAL SERVICES SCOTLAND
JOB DESCRIPTION
1.
JOB DETAILS
Job Holder
Job Title
Research Associate / Clinical Scientist
Immediate Senior Officer
NMRU NAT Laboratory Manager
Division
SNBTS
Location
NMRU, 21 Ellen’s Glen Road, Edinburgh EH17 7QT
2.
JOB PURPOSE
Responsibility for providing clinical technical services in the National Microbiology Reference Unit (NMRU)
in order to provide the necessary test results.
3.
DIMENSIONS
The NMRU has an annual budget in the region of £700 000.
o
The post holder is responsible for ordering of goods up to a value of £1000 from the NMRU
budget for purchases of equipment, test kits etc.
There are 10 staff in the NMRU.
o
No staff report directly to the post. However the post holder is expected to assist in training and
teaching of new staff and students.
o
The post holder is responsible for undertaking microbiological tests (serological and/or
molecular) using complex algorithms for the confirmation of repeatedly reactive blood
donations.
4.
ORGANISATION CHART
National Medical &
Scientific Director
Head of NMRU
NMRU Secretary /
PA
NMRU Serology Lab
Manager
2 x BMS2
5.
1 x Technical
Officer
NMRU vCJD Lab
Lead Scientist
NMRU NAT Lab
Manager
1 x Senior
Biomedical /
Clinical Scientist
Research Associate
/ Clinical Scientist
1 x Research
Assistant
(postholder)
ROLE OF THE DEPARTMENT
The Scottish National Blood Transfusion Service exists to meet the transfusion needs of patients in
Scotland. Within this the NMRU provides confirmatory testing of mandatory microbiology test reactive
samples (using both serological and molecular methods) and additional testing for a range of
microbiological infections that are or may be transmitted by blood transfusion, tissue use and organ
transplantation. The NMRU is a highly specialised unit performing and reporting on investigations of
microbiology positive blood donors and possible transfusion–transmitted infections.
The NMRU is involved in the development, evaluation and implementation of microbiological assays and in
epidemiological studies of new and emerging microbiological agents that may pose a risk for SNBTS. It
maintains an archive of microbiological reactive samples.
The NMRU also acts as a Reference Laboratory for external clients within and outwith the NHS Service
(NIBTS, IBTS, Glasgow, Edinburgh & Dundee Virus Laboratories)
6.
KEY RESULT AREAS
7.
o
The NMRU routinely uses in the region of 50 test kits/assays. The postholder is expected to be
competent in the necessary technical procedures to perform these tests/procedures (using
standard operating procedures).
o
Postholder is expected to operate manual, automated and computerised systems to support the
technical work in the NMRU.
o
Postholder is responsible for the routine maintenance of essential NMRU equipment, ensure
NMRU equipment is operating correctly and if faulty report to line manager.
o
Postholder is responsible for ordering of goods up to a value of £5000 from the NMRU budget
for purchases of equipment, test kits etc.
o
Postholder is responsible for providing any training as required within NMRU.
o
Postholder is responsible for accurate transcription of data from test results/worksheets to
report sheets and NMRU databases.
o
Postholder is also responsible for other data entry within NMRU as required.
o
Postholder is expected to take part in developmental work/evaluation of test kits/assays/testing
platforms/equipment under evaluation by NMRU and/or SNBTS. Successful evaluations often
lead on to subsequent MTEG evaluations and possible listing as approved assays.
ASSIGNMENT AND REVIEW OF WORK
o
Workplans will be agreed with the NMRU Lab Manager.
o
Postholder is expected to plan and organise the necessary workload efficiently.
o
Postholder follows various defined policies, standard operating procedures in the performance of
the necessary duties.
o
Postholder is expected to perform some R&D work in addition to normal duties.
o
Formal objectives are set and agreed annually and reviewed bi-annually during the departmental
appraisal system.
8.
COMMUNICATIONS AND WORKING RELATIONSHIPS
o
Postholder is expected to use complex algorithms involving several tests to provide confirmatory
conclusions to request referrals.
o
Communicates regularly with colleagues throughout SNBTS and externally to discuss test request
referrals, either verbally or in written form.
o
NMRU provides a highly specialist microbiology confirmatory service to both SNBTS and Northern
Ireland BTS, and to additional external customers (e.g. IBTS, Dundee & Edinburgh Virology
laboratories).
o
Postholder is responsible for providing any training as required within the NMRU.
9.
MOST CHALLENGING PART OF THE JOB
o
Time management/co-ordination of a range of technical assays/tests such that a number of
different tests may be running at the same time.
o
Prioritisation of workload to ensure that results are released quickly on samples requiring a short
turn around, and ability to alter workload if required.
10.
SYSTEMS
o
Responsible for the interpretation of results.
o
Responsible for the accurate entry of sensitive patient data into computer based data systems.
o
Responsible for maintaining sensitive patient and donor records in the form of paper records and
computer data (including databases and spreadsheets providing a system for easy and timely
access to results and data.
o
Understanding that information held on patients and donors is confidential.
o
Training others (staff and students) in the use of the equipment and the techniques used in the
NMRU
11.
WORKING ENVIRONMENT AND EFFORT
o
The postholder has a frequent requirement for concentration as work patterns are demand/supply
lead so therefore very unpredictable.
o
There is a frequent (daily) requirement for prolonged intense concentration in the performance of
labour intensive, complex, diagnostic tests and in the analysis, interpretation, and accurate
transcription and of the test results.
o
Repetitive movements are common in laboratory procedures including handling samples, setting
up assays, entering data into computers.
o
Remaining in the same position for prolonged periods due to the requirement to work with
infectious materials within containment hoods.
o
Light physical effort is required to lift or position pieces of lab equipment, waste bags etc.
12.
ENVIRONMENTAL / WORKING CONDITIONS & MACHINERY AND EQUIPMENT
o
Rapid and accurate operation of keyboards.
o
Working in a derogated containment level 3 laboratory.
o
Working daily with potential and known infected HBV, HCV, HIV, HTLV positive materials in the
performance of the duties required in the NMRU (these will have been subject to appropriate risk
assessments and planning).
13.
QUALIFICATIONS AND/OR EXPERIENCE SPECIFIED FOR THE POST
o
BSc (Hons) in biomedical science or equivalent acceptable to the Health Professions Council and
will either hold, or plan to hold, registration with that body as a Biomedical or Clinical Scientist.
o
Theoretical knowledge of molecular biology and the types of assays used within the NMRU
(nucleic acid amplification techniques and serology assays).
o
Postholder is expected to have good co-ordination to ensure that performance of complex and
expensive tests are not compromised by potential cross contamination.
o
Postholder is expected to have good attention to detail to ensure accurate transcription of data
from test results/worksheets to report sheets and NMRU databases.
14.
JOB DESCRIPTION AGREEMENT
Job Holder’s Signature
Date
Head of Department
Signature
Date
Title
HR Department will check job description format and content and then send the job description to the AfC
Team
HR Representative’s Signature
Date Job Description Agreed:
Summary of Key Terms and Conditions of Post
Division/Department:
Blood, Tissues & Cells
Location:
Edinburgh
Job Title & AfC Pay Band:
Senior Research Associate / Clinical Scientist – Band 6
Salary/Salary Scale:
£26,041 - £34,876 per annum
Duration:
12 Months Fixed Term Contract / Secondment
Conditions of Service:
Your terms and conditions of service are in accordance with the Agenda
for Change Terms and Conditions Handbook. Agenda for Change
comprises a new National pay system and job evaluation scheme for the
Health Service, a harmonised set of terms and conditions of employment
and a new Knowledge and Skills Framework which was introduced across
the NHS from 1st December, 2004.
Hours of Duty:
The standard full-time hours for NHS staff are 37.5 hours, exclusive of
meal breaks, normally to be worked over 5 days per week. The hours of
this post are 37.5.
Annual Leave:
The annual leave arrangements are:
o
o
o
27 days (202.5 hours) on commencement
29 days (217.5 hours) after 5 years’ service
33 days (247.5 hours) after 10 years’ service.
8 public and statutory holidays are also available within the leave year.
Superannuation:
(NHS Pension Scheme)
Employees will be automatically superannuated under
the terms of the National Health Service Superannuation
Scheme, unless they formally elect to opt out of the scheme.
Any queries on whether or not pension rights are transferable should be
addressed direct to the Scottish Public Pension’s Agency, Health Service
Branch, 7 Tweedside Park, Tweedbank, Galashiels, TD1 3TE.
Medical Assessment:
Appointment to this post will be subject to satisfactory medical clearance.
The successful candidate will be required to complete a pre-employment
health declaration form and, where appropriate, undergo a health
assessment by the Occupational Health Service.
Summary of Key Terms and Conditions of Post (cont.)
Knowledge and Skills
A new NHS Knowledge and Skills Framework will be applied
Framework:
to all jobs covered by Agenda for Change. Under the Knowledge and
Skills Framework, staff will have annual development reviews, which will
result in the production of a personal development plan.
NHS NSS is committed to promoting continuous staff development and a
number of divisions have Investors in People accreditation. There is equal
access to training for all staff.
Equal Opportunities Policy:
NSS is an Equal Opportunities employer and the policy applies to all
aspects of employment.
Smoking Policy:
We operate a No Smoking Policy.
SCOTTISH NATIONAL
BLOOD TRANSFUSION SERVICE
Person Specification
Research Associate / Clinical Scientist AfC Band 6
National Microbiology Reference Unit, SNBTS, Ellen’s Glen Road, Edinburgh
Essential
Desirable
 Experience of working in a
molecular biology or virology
or transfusion microbiology
laboratory
Experience
 Experience of working in
GMP environment
Qualifications
 Honours degree in Life Science
 Theoretical knowledge of
molecular biology and PCR
Knowledge& Skills
 IT skills related to equipment,
experience of word, excel,
powerpoint
 A high level of accuracy and
attention to detail in practical and
paper work
Personal Qualities
 Must be well organised and able to
work under pressure to achieve
result turnaround times and testing
of urgent samples
 Ability to work as part of a group
and independently as required
 Ability to get on with and
communicate with colleagues at all
levels
 Registered with HCPC
 Practical experience of
molecular biology and PCR
assays
 Ability to write and review
SOPs
NATIONAL SERVICES SCOTLAND
STAFF BENEFITS PACKAGE
Working for the NHS provides individuals with excellent career prospects and access to a wide
range of jobs. NHS National Services Scotland employs approximately 3,500 staff working in a
number of locations across Scotland.
Some of the benefits of working for NHS National Services Scotland are:-
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A minimum of 27 days annual leave (pro rata) increasing with service
Eight public holidays (pro rata) per year
Access to flexible, family friendly working arrangements
Membership of the NHS Scotland superannuation scheme. Membership also includes a
lump sum death in service benefit.
Excellent training and development opportunities
Season Ticket Loan Scheme
Childcare Voucher Scheme
Cycle to Work Scheme
Access to national and local staff discounts and promotions
Occupational Health Service
Employee Counselling Service