Band 8a - Automated Haematology EQA Lead Scientist, UK NEQASNHS

Job summary

We are looking for a dynamic and adaptable HCPC registered Biomedical Scientist to join UK NEQAS Haematology as a Band 8a Automated Haematology EQA Lead Scientist.

The UK National External Quality Assessment Unit (UK NEQAS) is operated by West Hertfordshire Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust and is based in a bespoke unit at Croxley Business Park in Watford.

The post holder will provide senior scientific and operational leadership for the automated counting EQA programmes, supporting their delivery, development and continual improvement.

You will require extensive senior-level laboratory haematology experience, with specialist knowledge of automated cell counting platforms, together with a strong understanding of EQA, performance assessment and laboratory quality management.

This is a full-time position. You will be required to work from 9:00 am to 5:30 pm, Monday to Friday, although flexible working arrangements will be considered. Full details will be discussed at interview.

We are also recruiting to a separate Band 8a Morphology Lead EQA Scientist post within UK NEQAS. Applicants whose experience and interests span both Automated Haematology and Morphology are welcome to apply for both posts; however, a separate application should be submitted for each role. If you apply for both posts, please indicate this in your application.

Main duties of the job

You will lead and coordinate the day-to-day operation of the automated counting EQA service, including programmes covering FBC, WBC differential, platelet counting, reticulocytes, ESR and infectious mononucleosis.

The role includes line management and staff development; analysis and interpretation of EQA data; investigation of complex participant queries; preparation and review of performance reports; validation of new parameters, methods, equipment and survey materials; and contribution to service development.

You will work with manufacturers and suppliers on technical issues and performance trends and contribute to Scientific Advisory Groups, specialist working groups and national/international activities.

Job description

The responsibilities include:

• Providing senior scientific and operational leadership for automated haematology EQA programmes.
• Deputising for the Haematology Service Manager within the specialist portfolio and supporting wider service delivery as required.
• Line managing, training and assessing the competency of EQA Scientists and support staff.
• Coordinating preparation, testing and distribution of survey material and verification of participant-generated data.
• Analysing EQA data and interpreting participant performance.
• Investigating complex participant queries and systemic performance trends.
• Validating new parameters, methods, equipment and survey materials.
• Authoring, reviewing and maintaining SOPs and controlled documents.
• Investigating non-conformances, quality incidents and complaints and contributing to CAPA.
• Supporting service development, reporting/analytics and IT validation.

About us

With a new hospital planned for Watford, work underway to update theatres at St Albans City Hospital and plans for a neighbourhood healthcare centre in Hemel Hempstead, this is an exciting time to join us. We are building on the success of our award-winning virtual hospital and re-imagining models of care, working closely with partners and making the most of advances in digital healthcare. Staff wellbeing and development are a priority, as is the role of innovation in improving clinical care, outcomes and patient experience. Our vision is Excellent patient care, together and our values are to be empowered, compassionate, professional and inclusive. They capture an important balance across what we must all do as individuals and to support others. We offer a variety of flexible working options as we recognise the importance of a good work life balance.www.westhertshospitals.nhs.uk/flexibleworking If you have a disability or long-term health condition and require support or guidance please [email protected] If you are a Service Leaver, Veteran, Military Reserve, Cadet Force Adult Volunteer, or partner/spouse of those serving please tick "Member of the Armed Forces Community" on the application form. We reserve the right to close this advert early due to the volume of applicants. Please apply as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.If you do not hear back within 3 weeks of your application, please assume you have been unsuccessful on this occasion.