The Antimicrobial Resistance and Healthcare Associated Infections (AMRHAI) Reference Unit is the national reference laboratory for investigation of antibiotic resistance in, and characterization of, healthcare associated and sexually transmitted bacterial pathogens. We seek to define outbreaks and identify transmission pathways. We use established and developmental phenotypic and genotypic methods to type isolates, to identify markers of virulence, fitness and epidemicity, and to determine their susceptibility to relevant antibiotics. Likely mechanisms of antimicrobial resistance are inferred by interpretive reading, and we offer molecular detection and confirmation of the genetic determinants of key resistances and monitor their dissemination. AMRHAI undertakes surveillance of resistance, advises on outbreak investigation, antimicrobial agents that may be appropriate therapy, and on any public health risk. It is also the national reference laboratory for pathogens from patients with cystic fibrosis (CF).

JOB SUMMARY

• To provide specialist laboratory testing for bacterial pathogens relevant to the section (phenotypic, molecular microbiological and epidemiological activities) including DNA extraction and submission for whole genome sequencing (WGS) in AMRHAI Reference Unit
• To undertake basic microbiology and molecular laboratory duties under supervision guided by standard operating procedures, protocols or systems of work based on training provided, and taking into account the operational, safety and quality requirements of the laboratory.

MAIN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Laboratory

• To process specimens, subculture, and perform nucleic acid extractions, run controls and IQC samples according to given protocols as required following training.
• To assist in carrying out laboratory testing, including molecular techniques such as NA extraction, PCR (including real-time PCR) and DNA sequencing
• To read and record test results where there are clear positive and negative results
• To monitor equipment, notifying senior staff where there are discrepancies
• To organise an inventory for maintenance of stocks and solutions
  • To work as part of a multidisciplinary team within the Department and contribute to the provision of a reference service for microbiological samples requiring up to Containment level 2 proficiency.
  • Carry out sample tracking; analysis and archiving of specimens received
  • To receive, prepare, or dispense media with appropriate storage
  • Work independently or as part of a team to undertake routine preparation and examination of variety of samples
  • General preparation work including the ordering of consumables and the preparation of media, reagents and solutions
  • To be responsible for the reading of less complex test results and entry of results onto the LIMS, live system where no interpretation of results is required
• Ensure rooms are kept clean, tidy and well stocked and that equipment is monitored and maintained
• Ensure discard waste is managed in a timely manner and stored & disposed of safely in accordance with SOPs, and agreed safety standards
• To answer the telephone and deal with enquiries as appropriate
• To take part in and contribute to laboratory meetings

Quality and Safety

In collaboration with the Laboratory Quality and Safety Team, to:

• Maintain a high standard of work, and to work methodically so that service delivery is safe, effective and economical and follows best practice
• Follow standard operating procedures and protocols
• Contribute to internal and external quality assurance programmes
• Ensure compliance with CPA, ISO 15189 and other accreditation and certification standards as appropriate
• Contribute to internal and external audit programmes and corrective actions
• Take every opportunity to suggest quality and safety improvements

Security / Health & Safety

In collaboration with the Technical Lead Laboratory Safety Officer and complying with safety policies and procedures:

• To ensure confidentiality and conformity to the requirements of the Data Protection Act, Caldicott principles and the Laboratory Information Systems and Technology Security policy
• To ensure that health and safety are afforded priority and to demonstrate commitment to health, safety and welfare of self, staff and visitors
• To ensure attendance of self and managed staff on safety training courses as required in the UKHSA Health and Safety Policy: General and other safety policies as appropriate
• To agree to implement safety objectives
• To ensure that a Laboratory/Office Safety Code is implemented.
• To ensure that risk assessments are implemented and maintained.
• To report risks that cannot be controlled to the Senior staff and/or Technical Lead Laboratory Manager
• To notify accidents, near misses, dangerous situations and shortcomings in health and safety via the appropriate management structure

Other

• To develop professional expertise by undertaking further appropriate training as required, including Competencies for work undertaken.
• To perform other duties as directed within the framework of the job summary
• Be prepared to work flexibly across the entire Department as required, maintaining appropriate levels of training as necessary
• To support the implementation of new methods and technologies into the laboratory, in order to maximise quality and efficiency of testing
• Support appropriate income generation activities for the laboratory in conjunction with the Technical Laboratory Management Team
• Able to make decisions within defined limits of existing policy and operational process in conjunction with best practise and guidance from more senior staff and the lead Technical Laboratory Manager.
• Able to answer queries and progress chasing, developing alternative or additional procedures.

• The above is only an outline of the tasks, responsibilities and outcomes required of the role. You will carry out any other duties as may reasonably be required by your line manager.
• The job description and person specification may be reviewed on an ongoing basis in accordance with the changing needs of the division and UKHSA.
• It should be noted that the work of the division is of a confidential nature and must not be communicated to other persons except where required for authorised purposes.

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

• Identify, discuss and action own professional performance and training / development needs with your line manager through appraisal / individual development plan. Attending internal / external training events
• To participate in all mandatory training as required, i.e. fire safety, information governance and all other mandatory training.

KEY WORKING RELATIONSHIPS

The post holder will develop working relationships and communicate regularly with a wide range of individuals, clinical and non-clinical, internal and external to UKHSA. This will include;

Internal

• Laboratory Management Team and Technical Operations Team
• Laboratory and office staff across Reference Microbiology
• Other laboratory staff throughout the Microbiology Services Division and UKHSA

External

• Customers of Reference Microbiology including NHS laboratories and commercial companies

Qualifications

• Educated to GCSE in English, Maths and Science or equivalent.
• Undertaking or Educated to IBMS Cert of Achievement Part II level or equivalent level of qualification
• Educated to a level (or BSc)/NVQ level 3 standard or equivalent to Diploma level in Laboratory and Technical Activities (LATA)

Knowledge and experience

• Experience of working in a laboratory with healthcare and/or streptococcus and staphylococcus pathogens
• Experience of working in a laboratory including using Pre Analytical techniques applicable to Bacterial, Serological or Molecular methods.
• Knowledge and understanding of laboratory safety requirements and procedures.
• Previous experience of working in a laboratory environment using computerised data systems.
• Experience of working in a health care environment.
• Awareness of a range of Health Services provisions.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office including Word and Excel.
• Knowledge of NHS issues.
• Understanding of Data Protection legislation.

Skills / capabilities/ behaviours

• Clear communicator with good writing, data entry and telephone skills ensuring accuracy
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team
• Problem solving skills
• Able to work on own initiative, organising and prioritising own workload to set deadlines
• Able to follow standard operating procedures.

Equality and diversity

• An understanding of and commitment to equality of opportunity and good working relationships.

• Learning and development tailored to your role
• An environment with flexible working options
• A culture encouraging inclusion and diversity
• A Civil Service pension with an average employer contribution of 27%

Job contact :

Name :
Alex Taylor
Email :
Recruitmentteam4@ukhsa.gov.uk

Recruitment team :

Email :
Recruitmentteam4@ukhsa.gov.uk