Coventry and Warwickshire Pathology Services (CWPS) offer a range of diagnostics tests across a number of departments. The Cellular Pathology service receives approximately 56,000 cases per year across 3 NHS Trusts; University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust, George Eliot NHS Trust and South Warwickshire University NHS Foundation Trust.
The Histology laboratories are based at University Hospital Coventry and Warwick Hospital. It is an exciting time to join the department as we are currently implementing new laboratory equipment. We have also recently implemented the Sectra Digital Pathology solution and brand new Hamamatsu scanners, and will be upgrading the Pathology LIMS system in 2026.
CWPS have been given funding for extra laboratory workforce to support in meeting the increasing demand for Histology case processing and Cancer Services across the Trusts. We are looking for Higher Level Biomedical Assistants to join our team to support in Digital pathology, microtomy and allocation of work to Consultants.
You will be expected to take part in other Histology laboratory duties such as embedding, filing, outstanding list, sendaways, training and supporting Biomedical Scientists, Clinical Scientists and Consultants.
Successful applicants will be required to provide an immunisation and vaccination report, from either their current UK occupational health provider or their UK GP.
The network offers an excellent opportunity to those seeking employment in a modern, innovative and high-profile organisation. Working shifts are 7.5 hours between 7am to 7pm, Monday- Saturday across the 2 Hospital sites on a rotational basis.
Perform accurate embedding of varied tissue samples from small biopsies (excluding core sample biopsies), resection and post mortem specimens in paraffin wax. Using own judgement to make decisions relating to quality control, rectifying any faults where necessary.
Perform microtomy of varied tissue samples (excluding core sample biopsies) to a high quality standard producing thin sections from specimen blocks. Use own judgement to make decisions relating to quality control, rectifying any faults where necessary, adhering to the correct specimen protocols whilst preventing the loss of diagnostic material assuring the quality of the service. The ability to recognise when samples need input from a senior member of staff is a requirement.
Undertake the accurate filing/retrieval of slides and blocks and scanning of request cards. Responsible for packaging patient materials i.e. reports, slides, blocks and specimens to be sent to other trusts for tests, reviews, MDT’s or other requests.
Also included will be the allocation of work to pathologists using a bespoke spreadsheet produced by our department.
University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust, rated as good by the Care Quality Commission, is one of the largest teaching Trusts in the UK.
We are extremely proud of our employees across our hospital sites, with high quality patient care at the heart of everything we do.
Boasting some of the most modern facilities in Western Europe, the Trust is renowned for being at the forefront of research and innovation as part of its blossoming reputation as a worldwide leader in healthcare.
We are proud to be recognised as a Pathway to Excellence ® designated organisation – please click the link for further details about this prestigious award. Pathway To Excellence ® - University Hospitals Coventry & Warwickshire (uhcw.nhs.uk)
By joining our exciting journey, you will form part of a passionate, talented team and will be able to access a wide range of learning and development opportunities. There has never been a better time to join our team.
The Trust is committed to building an organisation that makes full use of the talents, skills, experience, and different perspectives available in our diverse society. We want everyone to feel they are respected, valued, can achieve their potential and receive the most appropriate and relevant care. We will create an environment where the equality and human rights principles of fairness, respect, equality, dignity and autonomy are promoted and are part of the organisation's core values.
Duties of the role:
Organise the slides to be tested making sure they are correctly labelled and the specific antibody has been assigned to the slide. Responsible for the loading/unloading of machines and starting staining runs.
Prepare reagents and kits, retrieve the appropriate antibodies and produce the corresponding labels to be used in the staining process, in accordance to the daily worksheet.
Check the quantity of the antibodies in regards to adequate volume needed for the staining process, alerting the BMS's when volumes are running low and need to be made up.
Update the laboratory computer database when cases have been stained or require work to be repeated.
Cut/embed control material to be used in the staining process. Ensure there is a supply of relevant control material, notifying the BMS when stocks are low.
For further details of the role please see the attached job description.
This is not a trainee Biomedical Scientist post and is not suitable for candidates wishing to attain the IBMS registration portfolio.
Closing Date: Please be advised that this job advert will close as soon as sufficient applications have been received. Please apply for this job as soon as you can, if interested.
