Advanced Biomedical Scientist - Virology | Great Western Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
| Posting date: | 02 April 2026 |
|---|---|
| Salary: | Not specified |
| Additional salary information: | £49,387 - £56,515 per annum pro rata |
| Hours: | Full time |
| Closing date: | 02 May 2026 |
| Location: | Swindon, SN3 6BB |
| Company: | The Great Western Hospitals NHS FT |
| Job type: | Permanent |
| Job reference: | 7873018/249-7873018 |
Summary
The Virology Section Lead isan integral part of the senior laboratory teamresponsible for the day-to-day operation of the Virology section within the Microbiology department. The role involves providing a cost-effective quality service through review of processes and policies and interpreting technical laboratory tests and diagnostic processes. In addition they must act as a line manager for laboratory staff and provide technical support and advice to the Microbiology consultants.
The Virology Section Lead play a vital role toundertake effective time management in the daily planning of the sections work and to direct BMS/AP/BSW staff in the provision of a diagnostic Virology service, working within departmental guidelines and safety policies.The post holder ensures effective time management and supervision of staff, maintains competency in bacteriology, provides technical support to consultants, and participates in the weekend and out-of-hours service. Responsibilities include processing and interpreting complex virology samples, ensuring timely and accurate reporting, maintaining and troubleshooting advanced laboratory equipment, leading method evaluations, and supporting audits and quality management initiatives. The role also involves regular communication with internal and external stakeholders, training and mentoring junior staff, contributing to business cases, and ensuring compliance with UKAS, COSHH, and ISO 15189 standards. Professional competence is maintained through continuous development, adherence to HCPC requirements, and active participation in training and appraisal processes. The post holder is expected to manage resources responsibly, contribute to service improvement, and operate effectively under conditions that include physical effort, exposure to infectious materials, and occasional distressing scenarios.
We are proud to be part of BSW Hospitals Group – a formal partnership between Great Western Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Royal United Hospitals Bath NHS Foundation Trust and Salisbury NHS Foundation Trust. With a combined workforce of over 17, 600 colleagues, and budget of 1.6 billion the Group is united by a common purpose to deliver the best possible care to over 1 million people. We are creating a heath and care system that works with the people we care for, reducing the differences people currently face in access, experience and outcomes, improving the experience of our colleagues and tackling shared challenges like sustainability and finances. Every improvement we make across our Group will be guided by what creates the greatest benefit for our colleagues, our patients, our communities and our partners.
1. At all times to act in accordance with and adhere to laboratory and Trust procedures and protocols.
2. To undertake effective time management in the daily planning of the sections work and to direct BMS/AP/BSW staff in the provision of a diagnostic Virology service, working within departmental
guidelines and safety policies.
3. To undertake quality work including the investigation of non-conformities, audits and document control/creation and verification/reverification.
4. 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.
5. To be responsible for the maintenance and safe operation of laboratory equipment.
6. To maintain competency in all areas of the laboratory.
Further information will be found on the attached Job Description
This advert closes on Thursday 16 Apr 2026
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