Specialist Biomedical Scientist - Microbiology

Job summary We are seeking a Band 6 Specialist Biomedical Scientist to join the Microbiology department at Bedford Hospital. Our laboratory is equipped with a comprehensive range of modern platforms, including the BioMrieux BacT/Alert Virtuo, BD MGIT, DS2, BioMrieux Vidas, Biofire Torch and FilmArray, Roche Cobas 6800, BD Max, Cepheid GeneXpert, Beckman Coulter Microscan, Stratec Gemini and the Bruker MALDI-TOF. The service provides an extensive repertoire of investigations for Bedford Hospital, Luton and Dunstable Hospital, as well as local GP practices. The department is UKAS accredited to ISO 15189:2022 and is an IBMS-approved training laboratory. In this role, you will work as part of a dedicated Microbiology team, delivering high-quality microbiological analysis to support accurate diagnosis and optimal patient care. Main duties of the job The post holder will work as a Specialist Biomedical Scientist, performing a range of microbiological techniques to support the clinical diagnosis of infectious diseases in accordance with established SOPs. They will be expected to contribute to the delivery of training in line with the departmental training policy and to support Senior staff in maintaining a high-quality, efficient and effective service. Once fully trained, the post holder will participate in the departmental shift rota, which includes weekend, bank-holiday and on-call duties. The service is progressing towards a 24/7 shift model. About us Bedfordshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust provides hospital services to a growing population of around 700,000 people living across Bedfordshire and the surrounding areas across two busy hospital sites in Bedford and Luton. Both hospital sites offer key services such as A&E, Obstetrics-led Maternity and Paediatrics. You will be joining a friendly, high performing Trust committed to ensuring the health and wellbeing of staff. As one of the largest NHS Trusts in our region you will have access to a programme of high quality training and development to help you grow your career. The Trust continues to be committed to delivering the best patient care using the best clinical knowledge and technology available. We not only recruit based on qualifications and experience - we recruit individuals who demonstrate the behaviours which underpin our Trusts core values. We achieve this by using values based recruitment. We are dedicated to making our recruitment practices as inclusive as possible for everyone, we are committed to promoting equality and diversity, and creating a culture that values differences. Please note that vacancies may close prior to the advertised closing date when sufficient number of applications have been received. All new staff will be subject to a probationary period covering first 6 months in post. Travel between hospital sites may be required. Please review all documents attached to ensure you familiarize yourself with all requirements of the job. Details Date posted 28 August 2026 Pay scheme Agenda for change Band Band 6 Salary £39,959 to £48,117 a year per annum Contract Permanent Working pattern Full-time Reference number 418-BIO48713-CW Job locations Bedford Hospital Kempston Road Bedford MK42 9DJ United Kingdom Job description Job responsibilities The Job Description and