Laboratory Technician

Job Overview University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust is delighted to offer a fantastic opportunity to work with us. Please see below for detailed job description of the role.

Main duties of the job This post is for a maternity cover Laboratory technician to work as part of a sputum clinical laboratory research team associated with the NIHR Clinical Research Facility and Biomedical Research Centre. The appointee will take responsibility for receipt and tracking, processing, storage and sending of specimens taken as part of the research programmes and may be required to train temporary or visiting scientists in sputum and similar processing as required by their line manager. The clinical trial sputum laboratory provides an essential component of the clinical research pathway, processing samples quickly and efficiently after removal from the participants to ensure optimal results when analysed. This is facilitated by excellent communication both within the team and with professors, doctors, nurses and clinical trials assistants.

Working for our organisation University Hospital Southampton is one of England's largest acute teaching Trusts, offering a wide range of learning and development opportunities to support your career aspirations. Located on the south coast with an international airport and direct rail links to London, Southampton offers an ideal setting to live and work, with the New Forest, South Downs and Jurassic Coast. We believe that using technology wisely shows strong time management and commitment to innovation. However, personalising your recruitment application to highlight your unique skills and experiences is crucial. Relying too heavily on generic, AI-generated content instead of drawing from your own strengths and accomplishments may lead to your application being rejected if multiple candidates present identical or similar information. At UHS, we’re committed to providing a flexible working environment where possible. Whether you are balancing family, study, or your wellbeing with your career, we want to support you so you can help our patients. At UHS, we proudly champion individuality, recognising that outstanding care is only possible with a diverse, inclusive team. We’re committed to creating an anti-racist, anti-discriminatory environment where everyone feels valued, safe, and empowered to make a meaningful impact in our communities. We welcome applicants of all backgrounds, identities, and experiences to join us in building a healthcare community where everyone can belong, thrive, and contribute.

Detailed Job Description And Main Responsibilities What you’ll do The appointee will take responsibility for receipt, tracking, processing, storage and sending of specimens taken as part of the research programmes according to recommended protocols, responding to study specific queries, and, where appropriate, training and supervising new and visiting members of staff. Sample processing responsibilities will include sputum and saliva processing, differential cell counting, PBMC isolation and other biological sample handling as per GCP guidelines. Responsibilities will also include ensuring the lab is clean, tidy and well stocked with consumables and ensuring sample data is accurately recorded on electronic and paper logs. Once trained the post-holder is expected to be able to work without immediate supervision and to work an early or late shift pattern when required.

What we’re looking for The post requires someone with experience of working in a clinical laboratory setting, working with sputum, saliva, blood and other clinical specimens with the ability to work in collaboration with a team of research nurses and clinical investigators. Laboratory experience including handling of biological samples both on desktop and within material safety cabinets is essential. GCP training, IATA training and the use of sample tracking software such as Freezerworks is desirable. The post holder will collect and process samples according to recommended protocols ensuring accurate documentation. The post holder will liaise with investigators and other research staff involved in research studies and advise on their sample collection, processing and analytical procedures. They will also liase with study monitors and sponsors to address study specific queries. Once trained the post-holder is expected to be able to work without immediate supervision and if required be able to train new laboratory staff. They must also be able to work early or late shift patterns when required.

Person specification Qualifications / Training Required Essential criteria GCSE level A to C or equivalent in at least two from Maths, English and Science 3 A levels including science or equivalent experience Desirable criteria IATA qualification GCP qualification High Scientific University degree Previous or relevant experience necessary Essential criteria Previous laboratory experience Experience of working within a research laboratory Experience of biological sample processing techniques Experience of working in a class II MSC with hazardous biological materials Desirable criteria Experience in training laboratory staff Experience in sputum processing and differential cell counting Experience in PBMC processing Skills Essential criteria Good written and verbal communication Ability to follow set procedures and laboratory protocols meticulously. Knowledge of sample tracking databases such as freezer works. Experience in sample receipt, logging and shipping. Trust Values Essential criteria Patients First Always Improving Working Together