Fixed Term Contract

We're currently seeking Lab Assistants based in and around Cornwall to work within a state of the art, high output diagnostics laboratory environment as part of the UK's NHS Test and Trace programme.

As well as playing a vital role in supporting society's return to a more normal way of life by helping to break the chains of COVID-19 transmission, you will also gain invaluable experience and exposure to some of the country's most highly skilled individuals in the scientific community.

This represents a once in a lifetime opportunity to go above and beyond to support public health, while also developing first-rate technical skills and setting your Scientific career up for future success.

You will be joining a supportive environment and will be provided with training and accreditation for the role and processes you are required to undertake.

Your responsibilities:

As a Lab Assistant, you'll play a vital part in supporting a smooth running of the laboratory on a day-to-day basis and will be working closely with the Biomedical Scientists to support them with receipt and sample preparations.

Ideally, you would have familiarity in working within either an academic, clinical or industrial laboratory setting (however, this is not essential), as you'll be involved with maintaining outstanding worklists and general housekeeping lab duties, adhering to Standard Operating Procedures, maintaining/monitoring equipment.

As a Lab Assistants you'll be heavily involved with data entries using the laboratory computer system.

In order to be successful, you'll need the following education, experience and skills:

Education:

• Science based GCSE and/ or A Level (or equivalent)

Experience:

• Recent experience of working within a clinical microbiology laboratory
• Recent successful learning
• Previous computerised data entry experience
• Experience of using coded information

Skills:

• Able to pick skills up quickly and apply in a laboratory-based environment
• Strong attention to detail and able and willing to perform routine, manual tasks
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written

In addition, the following education and experience are also desirable but not mandatory:

Please note that as a Lab Assistant, you are not required to have extensive experience across all desirable competencies described above and will be provided with training and accreditation for the roles and processes you are required to undertake.

Education:

• Recent educational achievements relating to laboratory services

Experience:

• Experience working in a laboratory setting (academic, clinical or industrial)
• Experience of stock control
• Experience of using analysers.

Skills:

• IT Literacy
• Previous experience of following written protocols / policies.
• Ability to prioritise.
• Good interpersonal skills
• Working knowledge of laboratory information management systems

In return:

As well as a competitive rate of pay (with a 20% uplift applied for night working and end of contract bonus), you'll receive comprehensive training on relevant lab procedures and equipment.

This role will work on a shift pattern will be confirmed once a consultant contacts you about the role.

You will also be joining a diverse and hugely welcoming team. Diversity at NHS Test and Trace is about reflecting the communities we serve, holding the principles of equality and inclusion at the heart of everything we do and all that we stand for, embracing differences, creating possibilities, and growing together. We aim to foster a culture where individuals of all backgrounds feel confident in bringing their whole selves to work, feel included and their talents are nurtured, empowering them to contribute fully to our purpose.

This is literally a once in a lifetime opportunity to join a team of highly skilled individuals, all focussed on delivering the best possible outcome.

If you're ready for a new challenge and want to be part of the team delivering this essential lab work, please apply today.