Location
Scientific Campus, Colindale, London NW9 5EQ

Hours
Full Time (hours not specified)

Salary
£32,624 per annum

About the Role
The Healthcare Scientist Practitioner will support and maintain the Quality Management System in accordance with UKAS requirements, including supporting laboratory accreditation to ISO 17025. You will assist the Quality Manager to ensure good working practices and maintain high standards of work. The role involves asset management, including the maintenance and calibration of complex, high-cost equipment, and managing stocks of reagents and consumables. You will contribute to the care, maintenance, and security of laboratory premises and equipment to ensure efficient and safe operation.

You will take responsibility for supervising less experienced staff in their day-to-day activities and assist in the improvement and development of laboratory services to meet changing demands. Supporting the implementation of new methods and technologies to maximise quality and efficiency of testing is a key part of this role.

The role also involves supporting and participating in Food, Water and Environmental Microbiology Service (FWEMS) surveys, trials, research projects, and income generation activities in line with National FWEMS objectives. You will participate in periodic reviews of laboratory methods to ensure performance and relevance.

Competency in the laboratory IT systems and data input is required. You will ensure confidentiality and compliance with the Data Protection Act, Caldicott principles, and Laboratory Information Systems and Technology Security policies. Health and safety are a priority, and you will demonstrate commitment to the welfare of yourself, staff, and visitors, ensuring attendance at required safety training and implementation of Laboratory/Office Safety Codes.

This is a lab-based role requiring Counter Terrorism Check security vetting. Applicants should normally have been resident in the UK for the last 3 years to meet security clearance requirements.

Experience
- BSc (Hons) Science degree or BTEC with previous microbiology experience OR equivalent laboratory experience
- Understanding of quality management systems, especially UKAS Accreditation
- Knowledge of laboratory safety requirements and procedures
- Experience communicating complex information with developed interpersonal and oral/written communication skills
- Problem-solving skills and ability to respond to unexpected demands
- Ability to work on own initiative and organise workload with minimal supervision, often under tight and changing deadlines

About you
- Values diversity and difference, operates with integrity and openness
- Enthusiastic and committed to maintaining high standards of quality and safety
- Able to supervise and support less experienced staff effectively

Qualifications
- BSc (Hons) Science degree or BTEC with relevant microbiology experience or equivalent laboratory experience
- Security clearance: Successful candidates must pass a Counter Terrorist Check (CTC) and basic disclosure and barring security checks prior to appointment