Job Introduction
UK Health Security Agency is an executive agency of the Department of Health. They are a trusted source of advice to the government, the NHS, parliament, industry and to the public. UKHSA provides strategic leadership and vision for protecting and improving the nation’s health. Its ambition is to lead nationally, and enable locally, a transformation in the health expectations of all people in England, regardless of where they live and the circumstance of their birth. It will achieve this through the application of research, knowledge and skills.
The Microbiology laboratory at Cambridge current provides services to Addenbrooke’s, Royal Papworth, and the E&N Herts Hospitals, the surrounding district, and other NHS Laboratories. It has active research and epidemiological interests. Addenbrooke’s is closely associated with leading educational providers including the University of Cambridge and is a major centre for biomedical research and education.
The post holder will act as a laboratory assistant to provide support to the scientific team providing services to patients and clients as an aid to clinical diagnosis.
You will be expected to work 37.5 hours. The Cambridge laboratory operates a 24/7 shift pattern to which you will be expected to contribute.
6 month fixed term contract.
Main Responsibilities
- Sample receipt, handing, preparation and reagent preparation following protocols.
- Clerical duties, including use of computers, and data entry, telephone enquiries.
- Dealing with patients, visitors and deliveries.
- Monitor and maintain appropriate stock levels, receipt of deliveries and preparation of orders.
- Cleaning and disinfection of equipment and laboratory areas.
- Perform manual, semi-automated and automated tests according to protocols.
- Portering duties, exchange of gas cylinders.
The Ideal Candidate
- GCSE educated or equivalent.
- Previously experience in laboratory or health care is desired but not essential.
- Clear communicator with good writing, data entry and telephone skills ensuring accuracy.
- Able to work on own initiative, organising and prioritising own workload to set deadlines.