NHS Ayrshire & Arran
254181 (MG) Clinical Scientist Graduate Trainee
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Molecular Genetics Service
Department of Laboratory Medicine
Western General Hospital, NHS Lothian
Clinical Scientist Graduate Trainee; Pre-registration band 6, Genomics (Molecular Genetics)
3 Year Fixed-Term Post
Band 6: Full-time post 36 hours per week; part-time applicants will be considered
Salary: £43,231 - £52,679 (pro rata for part-time)
About the Role
An exciting opportunity has arisen for a highly motivated individual to join the Molecular Genetics Service at NHS Lothian as a Clinical Scientist trainee. The service is currently based at the Western General Hospital, with a planned relocation to the Lauriston site in 2028. The laboratory forms part of the Scottish Strategic Network for Genomic Medicine funded by Public Services Division to deliver Molecular Genetic testing in Scotland.
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Key Requirements
- Qualifications: First or upper second class BSc Honours Degree or international equivalent in Genetics, Molecular Biology, or a related and relevant Medical Laboratory Science.
- Skills: Strong interpersonal skills, and experience in both a research environment and a clinical laboratory setting, ideally a Molecular Genetics lab.
- Experience: Candidates must be able to work collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary team.
- Desirable Experience: Prior experience in molecular genetic techniques such as PGT-M, trio exome analysis, and variant interpretation.
Training and Responsibilities
The successful applicant will receive training in a broad range of laboratory techniques, including:
- PCR
- Sanger sequencing
- Next Generation Sequencing
Additional training will cover:
- Analysis and reporting of genetic results
- Performance of assay QC checks
- Troubleshooting assay failures
- Development of new laboratory tests
The successful candidate will be involved in all aspects of the laboratory quality management system, such as:
- Technical and clinical audits
- Assay validation and verification
- Ensuring appropriate maintenance of laboratory equipment
Continuous Professional Development (CPD)
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We are committed to continuous professional development (CPD) and offer an active CPD programme to all staff. This post offers excellent opportunities to broaden experience within a molecular genetics laboratory and to develop skills in both training and service development.
Further Information
For further information on what is included in the role and what skills/experience are being looked for, click on the links at the bottom of the screen to the job description and person specification.
If you have any questions, please contact:
- David Moore (Principal Clinical Scientist): David.Moore@nhs.net
- Vicky Cloke (Clinical Scientist): Victoria.cloke@nhs.scot
Additional Notes
- Part-time Salary: If this is part-time, the salary will be pro-rata.
- Work Permission: To work in the United Kingdom, you must have the relevant permission to work in the country. This permission is granted by the UK Visa and Immigration Service. Further information on the requirements and responsibilities can be found in the further information for this vacancy.
- Application Deadline: We anticipate a high level of interest in this position and may close the vacancy early once a sufficient amount of applications are received. Please ensure you complete and submit your application at an early stage.
- Reasonable Adjustments: We will fully support disabled candidates, and candidates with long-term conditions or who are neurodivergent by making reasonable adjustments to our recruitment policy and practices.
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