Associate Practitioner

The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust is seeking an Associate Practitioner to join the Clinical Genomics department. The successful candidate will support scientific teams in providing a timely and efficient accredited Clinical Genomics Service.

The post holder will be required to rotate through the Clinical Genomics laboratories to perform technical duties, including specimen reception, data entry, DNA/RNA/ctDNA extraction. The post holder will also assist in training and support activities such as quality, equipment maintenance, and audits.

The major focus of the role will be in sample collection, data entry, sample prioritisation, and distribution working within the Cancer Diagnostics Central Reception. The specimen reception is open from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm, and the post holder will be required to participate on a shift system on a rotational basis to provide this cover.

The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust offers a stimulating and dynamic working environment, a wide range of staff benefits, learning and development opportunities, and clear career pathways.

Job Responsibilities:

• Collect different types of biological samples from the main Pathology laboratories, minor procedures, theatres, and switchboard during the day, including late samples, and maintaining all relevant audit trails.
• Receive and check samples from referral hospitals, laboratories, and wards.
• Verify ID against request form and liaise with appropriate staff where errors or omissions exist.
• Log samples on the audit trail.
• Safely deal with high-risk samples according to policy.

Person Specification:

• Good general education, including A-levels, with at least one science subject.
• Recognised qualifications in Maths and English.
• Experience working in a relevant laboratory or healthcare setting.
• Awareness and understanding of handling biological samples.
• Experience using Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Knowledge of laboratory techniques and practices.
• High level of attention to detail and accuracy.
• Manual dexterity for technical tasks.
• Strong data entry and IT skills, including use of LIMS and Microsoft Office.
• Ability to follow written instructions and protocols.
• Good verbal and written communication skills.
• Able to prioritise and manage own workload.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary: £33,262 to £36,027 per annum.
• Wide range of staff benefits.
• Learning and development opportunities.
• Clear career pathways.
• Flexible working requests considered.