Biobank Histopathology Scientist

Description

Biobank Histopathology Scientist

Duration: 6 months

Working Hours: between 9am-5pm M-F

Part time position (at least 20 hours per week) 

Job Description/Capsule

• Human Biological Samples (HBS) are fundamental to medical research in discovering, developing and implementing new treatments and diagnostics. They are ethically sensitive materials and underpin the delivery of every clinical trial.
• The Biobank Histopathology Scientist plays a central role in sectioning capabilities, focusing on Biobank sectioning capability.
• This involves histology activities as well as some stakeholder collaboration. Proficiency in routine Histopathology techniques and understanding the principles of HBS are crucial aspects of the position.
• The Biobank Histopathology Scientist is accountable for maintaining HBS inventory in adherence to Global Standard, Good Clinical Practice (GCP), and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). Emphasis is placed on proper sample handling, encompassing receipt, logging, storage, tracking, processing, dispatch, return, and disposal. Utilising specialised IT systems and databases, the role ensures the sample library's compliance, with daily communication with HBS users and stakeholders as an integral responsibility.

Typical Accountabilities (per AZ framework and regulatory expectations):

• Manage or escalate histology issues to bring expertise to resolve problems.
• Contribute to biobank operations and laboratory training & education and maintenance of histology and microtomy areas, relevant SOPs, equipment maintenance, COSHH guidelines and risk assessments. In addition, the role holder will understand Safety Health and Environmental (SHE) procedures and other regulations applicable to the subject area.
• When applicable, provide histological technical support to the organisation and collaboration with scientific functions, including Microtomy, cryosectioning, routine histological staining, immunohistochemistry staining, slide scanning and digital image analysis.
• To be responsible for the implementation and continued maintenance of archiving of all study-based materials, including raw data, images, FFPE blocks and slides. Ensure that all electronic records are continually maintained and available for audit.
• Maintains an up-to-date knowledge of current sample management and analysis techniques and regulations to support histology/microtomy capability.
• To provide routine histology/microtomy training to the team as necessary.
• Process incoming and outgoing shipments/requests for HBS to users
• Perform all work following global standards, SOPs, Good Clinical Practice and legal requirements.
• Communication with science partners to ensure compliance with global HBS standards and legal requirements.
• Track all work-in-progress using specialised informatics systems and databases so that there is a common understanding of status at all times.
• Responding to HBS users' queries.
• Act upon day-to-day issues and partner with Biobank groups globally and internal and external stakeholders to drive continuous improvement.
• Knowledge of the transportation of HBS internally and contact with sample dispatch and external couriers.
• Ensure that specialist knowledge is updated to develop greater independence in delivering work.
• To ensure the upkeep of laboratory equipment and cleaning records.
• Input and tracking of HBS onto local LIMS.
• May be occasionally be required to work weekends or out of hours as part of the role.

Education, Qualifications, Skills and Experience

Essential

• Fully competent in Histology techniques such as Microtomy, different staining methodologies and evaluation of the different challenges in the process.
• Fluent in English as the Client working language
• Degree in a scientific discipline (BSc or MSc)
• Excellent communication skills
• Excellent attention to detail and ability to work on prolonged routine tasks
• Ensure all the laboratory components within planning operational delivery documents are accurate and fit for purpose.
• UK Human Tissue Act knowledge and understanding
• Experience of working with HBS
• Understanding of and experience with working with various IT solutions, such as LIMS systems and databases
• Experience in carrying out activities promptly and to the correct standards
• Identifying and leading continuous improvement processes
• Interest in logistics and developing processes through customer interactions and technology awareness

Desirable

• Experience in Biobanking
• Clinical Laboratory scientific experience
• Experience in the management of complex projects