A biomedical support worker provides support to biomedical scientists by carrying out essential tasks within the laboratory.
The Work
You may work in one of four areas:
Infection Science
medical microbiology – the study of micro-organisms
virology – the study of viruses.
Blood Sciences
blood transfusion science
clinical chemistry – the study of body fluids and the adverse effects of chemicals on the body
immunology – the study of the immune system
haematology – the study of blood.
Cellular Sciences
cytology – the study of cells
histopathology – the study of human tissue
reproductive science.
Gene Science
genetics
molecular pathology.
You could be:
preparing samples for analysis
making up slides to look at under a microscope
updating written and electronic records
maintaining stock levels
disposing of tissue samples
maintaining the laboratory equipment
keeping the laboratory clean and safe
ensuring safe working practises are maintained.
Pay
The figures below are only a guide. Actual pay rates may vary, depending on:
where you work
the size of the company or organisation you work for
the demand for the job.
Under NHS Agenda for Change, biomedical support workers start on Band 2, £24,647 to £26,763 a year. With experience your salary would rise to Band 3, £26,869 to £28,998 a year. The current pay scales are from April 2024.
Conditions
You would spend most of your time working in a hospital laboratory.
Hours would normally be regular but you may have to do shifts.
You might work close to infectious viruses or bacteria but would be protected against them.
You would have to wear protective clothing, such as a white coat, a mask and gloves.
A good general education is useful including English and Maths.
You can enter through a Modern Apprenticeship in Life Sciences and Related Science at SCQF Level 6.
You may need to sit an entrance test.
Previous experience in a paid or voluntary role in a laboratory setting would be an advantage.
You will require a satisfactory criminal record check from Disclosure Scotland to show that you are suitable for this type of work. Contact Disclosure Scotland for details on the type you would need.
You could go on to be an associate practitioner in life sciences by completing further training such as HND Applied Biological Sciences (SCQF Level 8) or IBMS Certificate of Achievement Part 2.
Video
Credit to University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust
Contacts
The following organisations may be able to provide further information.
2024
