Biomedical Scientist

Role overview

University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust is hiring a Biomedical Scientist to join the Point of Care Testing (POCT) team for a maternity cover assignment. This position offers the chance to build experience across pathology from a broader perspective than a standard main laboratory setting. The department is well resourced and delivers a wide range of Laboratory Medicine investigations, including Biochemistry and Haematology.

About the team and service

You will be part of a mixed group of Scientists and Associate Practitioners in Biochemistry / POCT, working collaboratively to improve patient care and maintain a reliable service. The team partners with other hospital departments to support safe use of point-of-care devices in areas such as theatres, oncology, and diabetes services. Southampton Biochemistry is among the largest laboratories in the region and performs a substantial volume of specialist testing. The service is growing continuously and is focused on improvement and innovation.

Main duties

The role includes supporting the rollout of a new blood glucose and ketone testing system alongside routine service work. Training will begin in the POCT department, with additional pathology training provided according to service needs. The Trust is committed to professional development and expects this post to strengthen future career and promotion prospects.

• Make operational decisions relating to workflow.
• Carry out monthly audits of point-of-care user activity.
• Investigate incidents and support follow-up actions.
• Help clinical colleagues with training when needed.
• Act as a key contact for Biochemistry when communicating with ward teams and doctors.
• Contribute to a dependable service that supports urgent and critical samples.
• Take part in the implementation of the new glucose and ketone testing platform.

Working pattern and environment

This post is being offered at Band 5 level and requires 37.5 hours per week. The department operates Monday to Friday, from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. Although the post is not directly patient-facing, it does involve regular visits to wards and clinical areas, including ICU and the Emergency Department, so the work can be challenging and requires professionalism, awareness of safety, and resilience. Interviews will be conducted in person.

About the Trust

University Hospital Southampton is one of England’s largest acute teaching trusts, with extensive learning and development opportunities for career growth. Southampton is located on the south coast, with an international airport, direct rail links to London, and access to the New Forest, South Downs, and Jurassic Coast. The Trust supports flexible working where possible and values a workplace that respects individuality, inclusion, and anti-racist, anti-discriminatory practice. Applicants are encouraged to present their own relevant achievements and experience clearly in their application.

Requirements

• HCPC-approved Biomedical Science degree (BSc) or another HCPC-approved degree with any required top-up qualification.
• Current HCPC registration.
• Evidence of ongoing continuing professional development.
• Desirable: previous work experience in a medical laboratory.
• Desirable: confidence using IT tools such as Microsoft applications, Outlook, and hospital information systems.
• Knowledge of Biochemistry or Haematology is helpful but not mandatory.

Personal qualities

• Strong communication skills.
• Good organisation and time management.
• Enthusiasm and self-drive.
• Flexibility and a willingness to adapt.
• Ability to work across disciplines in healthcare delivery.
• Confidence in handling challenge and pressure.
• Genuine interest in biomedical science and patient care.

Trust values

• Patients First.
• Always Improving.
• Working Together.

Additional information

This role is intended to cover maternity leave. The successful candidate will receive full training in the department’s systems. The team is committed to supporting staff development and helping employees progress professionally and personally.

Person specification skills

• Rapid learning and information retention.
• Adaptability.
• High attention to detail.
• Clear communication.
• Data analysis.
• Interpersonal effectiveness.
• Multitasking.
• Problem solving.
• Self-motivation.
• Initiative.
• Team collaboration.
• Time management.
• Ability to stay effective under pressure.