Job overview

As part of a small team, the post holder will organise and perform the routine testing within the Laboratory and have a good understanding of current methodology which includes Immunohistochemistry, real-time PCR

•      The role includes independently pre-screening and interpreting/reporting Fluorescence In–Situ Hybridisation testing for breast cancer patients, the results of some of these will be directly issued to clinicians. 
    
•      Supervision and training of staff involved in the Molecular Pathology service is required and possession of specialist knowledge in the science of Cellular Sciences is a pre-requisite.

•      The post holder will be expected to have a sound knowledge and experience of pathological and histological diagnostic techniques gained by theoretical study and by direct experience in the laboratory. Experience in molecular techniques is an advantage.

The post-holder will be required to maintain and develop further knowledge and skills in routine histology and molecular techniques and assist with the routine work as dictated by the demands of the service.
 
•      Within the changing landscape of Molecular Pathology,  the post holder will be required to participate in developmental and validation work for new methodologies

•      The post holder will be expected to maintain and extend their knowledge via CPD and attendance at appropriate short courses in order to maintain registration as a BMS with the Health Care Professions Council. 

Main duties of the job

•  Independently performs complex specialist techniques (such as FISH and PCR) on tissue samples, ensuring the quality of the test through use of interpretive skills and using the correct controls to validate the tests
• Performs independent interpretation of FISH testing results and directly produces reports on negative test results to Clinicians in order to direct them on treatment options.
•   Independently assess FISH cases and escalate complex interpretive decisions to more senior staff as appropriate for reporting.
• Performs troubleshooting and preventative maintenance on highly complex and expensive automated systems ensuring appropriate records are kept and liaises with service engineers where appropriate.
• Leads a team to ensure that the quality of laboratory processes is to an appropriate high standard, and that such results are timely and accurate

Please note that this role may often attract a high level of applications. Please note this role may close earlier than the original closing date so please ensure you submit your application as soon as possible.

Working for our organisation

Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust ranks among the top 10 NHS Trusts nationwide and was named the second-best Trust to work for in the South East in the 2023 NHS Staff Survey.

We are a large acute hospital trust in south-east England, providing general hospital services and specialist care to around 600,000 residents in West Kent and East Sussex. With a dedicated and diverse team of over 8,000 staff we are proud to offer specialised cancer services to over two million people through the Kent Oncology Centre.

Fordcombe Hospital, near Tunbridge Wells, became part of the Trust in October 2024. Specialising in planned care, it offers two operating theatres, 28 inpatient and day-care beds, diagnostic services (X-ray, MRI, CT, and endoscopy), and consultation/treatment rooms.

Looking for flexible working?

We are a flexible working-friendly organisation. Whether it’s adjusting your hours or exploring other flexible arrangements, we want to work with you to find the best solution for you, our patients, and the Trust. Talk to us about how we can accommodate your working needs.

Joining us includes a comprehensive benefits package:

•    At least 27 days of annual leave plus public/bank holidays (pro-rata for part-time staff).
•    Membership in the NHS Pension Scheme, with a 20.6% employer contribution and life assurance benefits
•    Blue Light card eligibility
•    And more, additional benefits can be found in the benefits documents below