The ideal candidate will have already gained some practical experience of diagnostic and therapeutic Andrology within a clinical setting.

You will have a good underpinning theoretical knowledge of male and female reproductive systems gained via a relevant first degree in Life Sciences, and/or MSc in Reproductive Science. You may be looking to build on your current experience, or looking for your first step into Reproductive Medicine as a career. This post will offer you comprehensive training and practical experience in a specialist Andrology laboratory setting.

Exact hours of work are to be negotiated but please note we operate Mon-Saturday and some weekend/out of hours work will be required on a rotation basis. Candidates must live or be planning to relocate within 45mins of the Queen's Medical Centre in order to be able to fulfil on call duties.

Main duties of the job

In addition to the below summary you will need to familiarise yourself with the full job description and person specification documents attached to the advert for this role.

Participate in all laboratory activities subject to the direction of the Andrology Service Lead, observing good laboratory practice at all times.

Support the senior andrology staff.

Follow local SOP's and guidelines of good practice produced by relevant organisations such as the World Health Organisation, British Fertility Society, and the Association of Biomedical Andrologists and British Andrology Society (now part of ARCS).

Strict adherence to the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority's code of practice including those for patient/sample witnessing.

Participate in review and development of laboratory protocols, internal audit, recording deficiencies and taking corrective action under direction of the Service Lead and Quality Manager.

Participation in on call rota.

Participate in external quality assessment (EQA) and internal quality control (IQC) activities

Participate in research and development projects as directed by the Service Lead

About us

NUH Life Fertility Service is a small but dedicated multidisciplinary team of Clinicians, Nurses, Healthcare Scientists and administration staff providing Fertility care to both men and women in the East Midlands region.

Due to internal promotion we now have an exciting opportunity for an Andrology Practitioner to join our laboratory team, located in new and purpose built facilities.

With over 19,000 staff, we are one of the biggest employers in the city with a central role in supporting the health and wellbeing of our local population. We play a leading role in research, education and innovation.

Come and join our wonderful team at NUH. We are big believers in diversity and welcome new ideas to help develop our team in order to deliver world class healthcare to the vast patient populations we serve. With endless personal development opportunities available, at NUH we will endeavour to turn your job into a career!

We particularly welcome applications from people who identify as Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic, or Disabled, as we are striving to be better represented at NUH.

Job description

Job responsibilities

Performing diagnostic semen analysis in line with World Health Organisation guidelines.

Sperm preparation for diagnostic purposes, intra-uterine insemination using partner or donor sperm, observing suitable aseptic technique.

Cryopreservation of sperm for fertility patients, oncology patients, private patients and donors. Storage and maintenance of cryopreserved sperm.

Maintaining levels in Liquid Nitrogen tanks, which involves moving pressurised cylinders (with assistance) from the storage bay and connecting to the freezers.

Testing for donor suitability and sperm quality prior to freezing under the direction of the Service Lead.

Participate in external quality assessment (EQA) and internal quality control (IQC) activities when required.

Person Specification

Training and Qualifications

Essential

• Minimum 2:1 in BSc in a relevant Life Science

Desirable

• ABA certificate (module 1) or equivalent
• MSc in Reproductive Science

Experience

Essential

• Experience in performing routine semen analysis
• Demonstrable commitment and interest in diagnosis and treatment of Male infertility

Desirable

• Experience working in a HFEA licensed centre
• Practical experience in cryopreservation of sperm
• Competency in the preparation of semen samples for use in IUI

Analytical and Judgement Skills

Essential

• Competent in basic laboratory/technical skills (use of microscopes, pipettes and centrifuges)

Desirable

• Understanding of role of EQA/IQC within a laboratory setting
• Evidence of competence in semen analysis and sperm preparation
• Understanding of current regulation including HFEA's code of practice

Physical Skills

Essential

• Physical ability to move large/heavy nitrogen cylinders

Desirable

• Handling of liquid nitrogen and operation of nitrogen refrigerators

Other Role Requirements

Essential

• Willing to work occasionally out of normal hours e.g. Saturday's/Evenings and participate in the on call rota
• Full driving licence and access to vehicle whilst on call
• Ability to prioritise conflicting workloads

Communication and Relationship Skills

Essential

• Excellent written and spoken English in order to convey complex information to patients, relatives, staff and colleagues
• Able to demonstrate understanding and empathy for all patients requiring our services

Desirable

• Experience of taking consent
• Evidence of Patient/Client contact

Employer details

Employer name

Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trusts

Address

Nottingham University Hospital QMC Campus

University Boulevard

Nottingham

NG7 2UH

Any attachments will be accessible after you click to apply.

164-6518533