Specialist Biomedical Scientist

NHS; Swindon; On-site; GBP 38,000 - GBP 47,000; Full time

Job summary

A healthcare trust in the UK seeks an enthusiastic Specialist Biomedical Scientist for a 12-month fixed term maternity cover contract. This role is integral to the laboratory, providing technical expertise in Bacteriology and Virology. Key responsibilities include performing specialized tasks, supervising laboratory assistants, and managing equipment. Candidates should have a BSc in Biomedical Science, relevant HCPC registration, and experience in a Medical Microbiology lab. Salary ranges from £38,682 to £46,580 per annum pro rata.

Qualifications

• In-depth experience of working in all areas of a Medical Microbiology laboratory.
• Ability to work alone out of hours.
• Experience in automated and manual identification methods.

Responsibilities

• Perform specialized tasks in the Bacteriology and Virology sections.
• Authorise specific result types.
• Oversee and supervise Medical Laboratory Assistants.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Self-motivation

Attention to detail

Education

BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science

Current registration with the HCPC

IBMS Specialist diploma in Medical Microbiology

MSc Medical Microbiology

Quality Management training

Health & Safety training

Parasitology training

Mycology training

Job description

Specialist Biomedical Scientist

The closing date is 20 February 2026

12-month Fixed Term Contract - Maternity Cover

We are seeking an enthusiastic Specialist Biomedical Scientist with excellent interpersonal skills and a high degree of self-motivation to join our dynamic team. This role is integral to the laboratory, where you will provide specialist technical expertise in the Bacteriology and Virology sections.

Specialist Biomedical Scientists (BMS) play a crucial role in the laboratory team, responsible for diagnosing infections and disease processes. They leverage the latest scientific knowledge and methods, while also utilizing traditional techniques when necessary. Specialist BMS conduct and interpret laboratory tests providing essential data to clinical staff for accurate diagnoses and evaluating the effectiveness of treatments.

Main duties of the job

• Technical Duties:
  • Perform specialized tasks in the Bacteriology and Virology sections.
  • Authorise specific result types.
  • Oversee and supervise Medical Laboratory Assistants (MLAs) and Assistant Practitioners (APs).
  • Manage the use and maintenance of laboratory equipment.
• Quality and Project Management:
  • Participate in validation and verification projects.
  • Take responsibility for a specific technical function within the laboratory.
• Development and Support:
  • Stay updated with scientific advancements and managerial developments in the field.
  • Support senior staff and the Laboratory Manager in providing an efficient, expert, and cost-effective laboratory service.
  • Take on additional laboratory responsibilities with appropriate support and training.
• Working Hours:
  • Routine hours are Monday to Friday, 08:45 to 17:15 (37.5 hours per week).
  • Participation in a rotational schedule for weekends and Bank Holidays.
  • Involvement in the on-call (out-of-hours) service provision is required.

About us

Our STAR values - Service, Teamwork, Ambition and Respect - are a golden thread running through everything we do. These values serve as a guiding principle, driving us towards our vision of delivering great joined up services to our local community. Whether at home, in the community, or within the hospital, our goal is to empower individuals to lead independent and healthier lives.

Job responsibilities

Please see attached job description for full details.

This job description is not intended to be exhaustive and it is likely that duties may be altered from time to time in the light of changing circumstances, in discussion with the post holder. This role profile is intended to provide a broad outline of the main responsibilities only. The post holder will need to be flexible in developing the role with initial and ongoing discussions with the designated manager.

Person Specification

Education, Qualifications, Training

• BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science (Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS) approved) or equivalent, plus, further knowledge acquired through training and practical experience
• Current registration with the Health & Care Professions Council (HCPC)
• IBMS Specialist diploma in Medical Microbiology
• MSc Medical Microbiology
• Quality Management training
• Health & Safety training
• Parasitology training
• Mycology training

Experience

• In-depth experience of working in all areas of a Medical Microbiology laboratory in an NHS laboratory, post HCPC registration
• Previous experience of working alone out of hours is essential
• Experience in automated and manual identification methods
• Quality Management experience
• Health & Safety Management experience
• Stock Management and stock control experience

Disclosure and Barring Service Check

This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.

Great Western Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust

£38,682 to £46,580 a year per annum pro rata