Laboratory Assistant

Role Overview

We are looking for a dedicated and proactive Laboratory Assistant to join the Specimen Reception Team at Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust. The ideal candidate will have relevant A-level qualifications or their equivalent and preferably some laboratory experience. This position supports technical laboratory teams in detailed specimen handling and processing, ensuring accuracy and compliance with protocols.

About the Genetics Unit

The Rare Disease Laboratory comprises roughly 140 professionals, including clinical scientists, bioinformaticians, translational scientists, technologists, and support staff. This group, together with the Clinical Genetics Team, constitutes the Genetics Unit, providing regional genetic services to North London, serving a population of around 10 million people. The laboratory offers comprehensive diagnostic molecular and cytogenetic testing, including next-generation sequencing for common single gene disorders and national/international diagnostic services for a variety of genetic conditions. Cytogenetic testing techniques employed include microarray, karyotyping, FISH, and MLPA.

Key Responsibilities

• Adhere to internal procedures and institutional policies for laboratory operations.
• Maintain strict compliance with health and safety standards.
• Support quality assurance activities within the laboratory.
• Assist in onboarding and training new staff members and visitors.
• Adapt to fluctuating workload demands flexibly.
• Participate in required training programs and courses.
• Manage the registration of samples using the laboratory information system EPIC Beaker.
• Receive and log prenatal and postnatal samples within the laboratory.
• Perform tasks such as sample extraction, quantification, organization, and preparation for dispatch.

Additional Information and Commitment to Inclusion

Great Ormond Street Hospital is dedicated to an equitable recruitment process that focuses solely on the applicant’s merits and qualifications, conducted without bias or discrimination. We value diversity and inclusiveness and strongly encourage applications from underrepresented groups, including Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic (BAME) individuals, people with disabilities or long-term health conditions, as well as members of the LGBT+ community.

Our policies ensure fair and consistent treatment for all employees and applicants, reflected by our status as a Disability Confident Employer and membership in dedicated diversity forums. We actively support staff networks to foster a positive workplace culture and inclusivity.

Contact Details for Further Information

For any questions or to arrange an informal visit, please contact Ana Maia Rocha, Lead Genetic Technologist at 020 7405 9200 ext 8867 or via email.