Biomedical Scientist

Job summary

We are looking for a Band 5 Biomedical Scientist to join our Microbiology Team on a full time basis.

Biomedical Scientists (BMS) are an integral part of the laboratory team responsible for the diagnosis of infection and disease processes by the application of latest scientific knowledge, coupled with the most up to date scientific methods and use of traditional methods where required. BMS carry out, and interpret the results of, laboratory tests on biomedical samples that will aid clinical staff in the diagnoses of illness and evaluate the effectiveness of treatment.

Further professional development will be expected, as the post holder works towards a Specialist Diploma in Medical Microbiology.

• To interpret clinical details and patient demographic data for the allocation of tests to samples.
• To process biomedical samples using various techniques with a high degree of competency in accordance with standard operating procedures, providing accurate and timely appropriate results.
• To accurately interpret and report timely complex analytical results, and authorise Microbiology reports according to laboratory policy.
• To communicate effectively test results by telephone, printed report or electronic report, deal with telephone enquiries, and provide technical advice to laboratory users.
• To be able to make decisions regarding the quality of specimens and the validity of test data and ensure any anomalies / errors are reported to Senior BMS staff as soon as possible.
• To use complex and technical laboratory equipment in the course of their duties including maintenance and troubleshooting of the equipment.

Our STAR values - Service, Teamwork, Ambition and Respect - are a golden thread running through everything we do. These values serve as a guiding principle, driving us towards our vision of delivering great joined up services to our local community. Whether at home, in the community, or within the hospital, our goal is to empower individuals to lead independent and healthier lives.

Date posted: 15 January 2026

Pay scheme:
Agenda for change

Band:
Band 5

Salary: £31,049 to £37,796 a year pro rata per annum with 5% RRP uplift ending on 31 March 2026

Contract:

Permanent

Working pattern:
Full-time

Reference number:

Job locations:
Great Western Hospital, Marlborough Road, Swindon, SN3 6BB

• At all times to act in accordance with and adhere to laboratory and Trust procedures and protocols.
• To work under the direction of Senior BMS staff in the provision of a diagnostic Microbiology service, working within departmental guidelines and safety policies.
• To be responsible for health and safety issues pertinent to diagnostic laboratory work, adhering to all Trust and laboratory employment Health and Safety policies and Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) regulations.
• To rotate (after suitable training and competency verification) through all sections of the Bacteriology department.
• To participate in rotas covering Saturday, Sunday and Bank Holiday mornings as required.
• To participate in the out-of-hours service in a lone worker situation.
• To participate in mandatory training requirements of the Trust and attend training sessions, educational meetings and laboratory meetings as appropriate.
• To participate in annual joint review in accordance with the Trust appraisal policy.

• BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science (Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS) approved) or equivalent
• Current registration with the Health & Care Professions Council (HCPC)

• Working towards IBMS Specialist diploma in Medical Microbiology

• Experience of working in all areas of a Medical Microbiology laboratory in an NHS Laboratory

• Post-HCPC Registration experience of working in all areas of a Medical Microbiology laboratory.
• Experience of working on-call in a lone worker situation

This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service…