Biobank Histopathology Lead Scientist

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 Lead Scientist plays a central role in establishing sectioning capabilities, focusing on establishing the sectioning capability during the pilot stage and ensuring project readiness for the official launch. This involves extensive and intensive stakeholder collaboration, overseeing capability creation, maintenance, and future improvements. 

Additionally, the role encompasses identifying and leading process and IT improvements, providing local training for science partners, liaising with external vendors, and advising on the availability and sources of Human Biological Samples (HBS). Proficiency in routine Histopathology techniques and understanding the principles of HBS are crucial aspects of the position. 

The Biobank Histopathology Lead Scientist is accountable for maintaining the 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. Utilizing specialized IT systems and databases, the role ensures the sample library's compliance, with daily communication with HBS users and stakeholders as an integral responsibility. 

Accountabilities:

• Act as the first escalation point for 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 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. 

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