Associate Practitioner
The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust
Sutton, SM2 5PT
Salary
£33,262 to £36,027
Contract
Permanent
Hours
Not specified
Closing date
11 September 2026
11 days left
Job description
The Royal Marsden has a vital role in championing change and improvement in cancer care through research and innovation, education and leading-edge pr...
The post holder will support scientific teams in the provision of a timely and efficient accredited Clinical Genomics Service. The post holder must be able to take responsibility for working alone and as part of a team to achieve necessary performance levels. The post-holder will be expected to work within Cancer Diagnostics Central Reception and all areas of Clinical Genomics (both Cytogenetics and Molecular Diagnostics) to perform laboratory support duties, with minimal supervision. The major focus of the role will be in sample collection, data entry, sample prioritisation and distribution working within the Cancer Diagnostics Central Reception. The specimen reception is open from 8.30am to 5.30pm and so the post holder will be required to participate on a shift system on a rotational basis to provide this cover.
For further information please refer to the job description and personal specification
To collect different types of biological samples from the main Pathology laboratories, minor procedures, theatres and switchboard during the day, including late samples, and maintaining all relevant audit trails.
To receive and check samples from referral hospitals, laboratories and wards. To verify ID against request form and liaise with appropriate staff where errors or omissions exist. To log samples on the audit trail.
To safely deal with high risk samples according to policy.
To prioritise samples according to SOPs and laboratory requirements
The successful applicant must have a relevant A levels including a science subject and have experience working in a relevant laboratory. Experience in cytogenetic and molecular diagnostics techniques is desirable. Please note: total weekly working hours are 37.5 hours, however in line with the NHSE requirements for the delivery of the Cancer Test Directory, the Clinical Genomics department will operate an extended working hours service, the postholder will be required to participate in a shift system on a rotational basis.
The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust is a world-leading cancer centre. Our role is to offer our patients the best cancer care available anywhere in the world, and to continue to make a global contribution to finding better ways of diagnosing and treating cancer. We employ over 4,500 staff in a diverse range of careers including nursing, medical, science, radiography, pharmacy, occupational therapy, finance and administrative services. We have two hospitals - one in Chelsea, London, and one in Sutton, Surrey - as well as a Medical Daycare Unit in Kingston Hospital.
At The Royal Marsden, we deal with cancer every day, so we understand how valuable life is. When people entrust their lives to us, they have the right to demand the very best. That's why the pursuit of excellence lies at the heart of everything we do.
At the heart of the hospital is our dedicated team. We offer a stimulating and dynamic working environment, a wide range of staff benefits, learning and development opportunities and clear career pathways. There are opportunities to work flexibly across a range of areas and specialities and we welcome flexible working requests from point of hire to support employees work life balance. We are looking for employees who aspire to excellence, share our values and can play a crucial role in our on-going achievements.
Education/Qualifications
Essential
- Good general education including A-levels, with at least one science subject
- Recognised qualifications in Maths and English
Desirable
- BSc in Biological Science or equivalent
- Knowledge of theory & practice of laboratory techniques
Experience
Essential
- Experience working in a relevant laboratory or healthcare setting
- Awareness and understanding of handling biological samples
- Experience using Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
- Knowledge of laboratory techniques and practices
- Awareness of laboratory health & safety procedures and COSHH
Desirable
- Knowledge of molecular and cytogenetic techniques (e.g., DNA/RNA extraction, FISH, slide preparation)
- Experience working in a UKAS-accredited diagnostic laboratory
Skills & Abilities
Essential
- High level of attention to detail and accuracy
- Manual dexterity for technical tasks
- Strong data entry and IT skills, including use of LIMS and Microsoft Office
- Ability to follow written instructions and protocols
- Good verbal and written communication skills
- Able to prioritise and manage own workload
Desirable
- Understands the relationship between laboratory work and patient care
- Basic understanding of quality systems (e.g., ISO 15189, UKAS) and data integrity
Personal Qualities
Essential
- Reliable, enthusiastic, and proactive
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Demonstrates initiative within role boundaries
- Willing to respond flexibly to service demands
- Ability to prioritise tasks and organise daily work
How to apply
Applications are handled entirely by the employer on the original advert. We do not collect CVs, supporting statements or application data.
Provenance
Source
NHS Jobs
First seen
28 August 2026
Last checked
31 August 2026
Salary, closing date and description are taken from the employer's advert. The original advert always takes precedence.
About the employer
NHS organisation
This listing was structured from NHS Jobs. Vacancy details and the application process remain the responsibility of the original source.
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