BIOMEDICAL SCIENTIST JOB DESCRIPTION

Discover what Biomedical Scientist do across specialisations including molecular biology, clinical diagnostics, biocompatibility, and national security science.

Biomedical Scientist Job Description Template

1. About the Role

A Biomedical Scientist is the professional who owns sample integrity from accession through validated result. Every clinician decision downstream depends on whether that result is right. In clinical and diagnostic laboratories - settings governed by COSHH compliance, HCPC registration requirements, and Quality Management Systems - this role sits between specimen receipt and clinical reporting, answering to laboratory leadership while keeping analysers calibrated and SOPs current. The work is procedurally demanding and carries real patient consequence.

2. Position Summary

As the Biomedical Scientist, you ensure that patient specimens are processed, tested, and reported to the accuracy standards required for clinical decision-making, with direct accountability for QC documentation and instrument calibration. You operate within a laboratory team under the direction of senior scientific staff, covering routine and specialist testing across disciplines including Haematology, Biochemistry, and Immunology.

3. Why Join Us

Career Impact: Achieving and maintaining HCPC registration as a practising Biomedical Scientist establishes a recognised professional credential that carries weight across NHS, private, and independent diagnostic laboratory markets.

Business Impact: The accuracy of every test result this role produces shapes the treatment pathway a clinician recommends, making the Biomedical Scientist's output a direct input to patient safety outcomes.

Growth Opportunity: Demonstrated competence in multi-analyser validation and SOP authorship opens progression toward Senior BMS and laboratory management appointments, expanding both scope and earning potential.

4. Key Responsibilities

  • Execute routine and specialist analytical testing on biological samples, validating results before release to clinical staff.
  • Perform QC documentation, instrument calibration, and scheduled maintenance to keep analysers operating within specification.
  • Accession, process, and store specimens in line with established SOPs and chain-of-custody requirements.
  • Identify abnormal or unexpected results and escalate promptly to senior laboratory staff with full documentation.
  • Comply with COSHH regulations, health and safety policy, and organisational standards governing laboratory conduct.
  • Maintain sufficient inventory of consumables and reagents to support uninterrupted testing schedules.
  • Mentor and support junior or trainee biomedical scientists, overseeing competency against defined standards.
  • Contribute to quality management system reviews and participate in laboratory KPI reporting cycles.

5. Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Biomedical Science, Healthcare Science, or related life science field, or equivalent work experience.
  • 2 or more years of post-graduate clinical laboratory experience, with hands-on competency in at least one core discipline.
  • Valid registration with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) or active pursuit of registration.
  • Proven ability to perform QC activities, instrument calibration, and procedural maintenance in a regulated laboratory setting.
  • Knowledge of COSHH regulations and safe handling procedures for potentially infectious agents and hazardous chemicals.
  • Working knowledge of laboratory information management and electronic reporting systems.
  • Strong organisational and record-keeping skills, with the ability to manage concurrent testing workloads independently.

6. Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience working across more than one discipline, including Haematology, Biochemistry, or Immunology, within an NHS or equivalent accredited laboratory.
  • Competency in validation and verification of new equipment or assays, including writing or reviewing technical SOPs.
  • Familiarity with QHSE management systems and participation in formal laboratory accreditation or inspection cycles.

7. Success Metrics and Environment

  • Success Metrics and EnvironmentSpecimen turnaround time, measuring how consistently test results are delivered within agreed clinical timeframes.
  • QC pass rate per analyser, reflecting the proportion of calibration and reagent checks meeting acceptance criteria.
  • Result amendment rate, tracking how often issued reports require correction due to analytical or documentation error.
  • SOP compliance audit score, measuring adherence to standard operating procedures across routine testing workflows.
  • Incident report closure time, indicating how quickly identified laboratory safety or quality events are resolved.
  • Typical tools: Haematology and biochemistry analysers (commonly Sysmex XN series or Beckman Coulter platforms); LIMS platforms for specimen tracking and result entry.

8. Compensation and Benefits (US Market Benchmark)

  • Base Salary Range: $55,000 to $80,000 per year depending on seniority and discipline
  • Bonus: annual performance bonus of 3 to 7 percent where applicable
  • Equity: not typically offered in clinical laboratory settings
  • Health Benefits: medical, dental, and vision coverage standard
  • PTO: 15 to 22 days annually plus public holidays
  • Common Perks: CPD funding, professional registration fee support, shift flexibility


Figures are estimates based on general US market benchmarks and may be outdated. Adjust based on location, company size, and seniority level.

9. EEO and Legal

Work authorization in the United States is required for this position, and employment is contingent on successful completion of a background check, which may include criminal history and drug screening consistent with clinical laboratory standards. Reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities are available throughout the application and employment process upon request. All applicants are considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law.

Biomedical Scientist Job Description Template

1. Biomedical Scientist (Antiviral Research)

The Biomedical Scientist owns the execution of experiments to identify antibodies and small molecules that inhibit viral entry and replication, contributing to the Biosciences and Biotechnology Division's research mission. Working closely with cross-functional scientists and engineers, this role delivers critical findings through biochemical assays, mammalian expression systems, and rigorous laboratory documentation that advance antiviral program goals.


Key Responsibilities

  • Execute experiments to identify antibodies and small molecules that inhibit viral entry and replication.
  • Perform expression of antigens and antibodies using mammalian expression systems.
  • Maintain and perform experiments using viral and cell cultures.
  • Conduct biochemical and protein binding assays such as SDS PAGE, ELISA, and protease activity assays.
  • Document results in laboratory notebook and communicate findings with relevant team members.
  • Contribute to basic lab maintenance including restocking, waste removal, and organization.
  • Participate in annual safety inspections and maintain a safe laboratory environment.


Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, or related field.
  • Fundamental knowledge of sterile techniques, culturing and maintenance of microbiological and tissue cultures, and media preparation.
  • Fundamental knowledge of molecular biology techniques including ELISA, microscopy, protein purification, SDS PAGE, immunostaining, and immunoprecipitation.
  • Ability to carry out experiments in a Biosafety Level 2 laboratory.
  • Ability to perform basic laboratory maintenance including restocking, waste removal, and organization.
  • Sufficient written, verbal communication, and interpersonal skills to deliver presentations, prepare reports, and interact with diverse technical and administrative staff.
  • Ability to work and troubleshoot independently.

2. Biomedical Scientist (Biomedical Optics Modeling)

Embedded within a multidisciplinary team, the Biomedical Scientist builds and validates simulation models of device interaction with complex biological samples to drive system specifications and measurement design. Working closely with experts in mathematics, optics, and biophotonics, this role delivers user-friendly modeling tools that deepen the team's understanding of optical physics and physiological variability.


Core Functions

  • Build models of device interaction with complex samples such as light in tissue.
  • Deepen and apply understanding of optical physics and physiology.
  • Capture knowledge as user-friendly and flexible tools for the team.
  • Define experiments and use experimental data to validate models.
  • Analyze how physical sources of variation impact measurement complexity.
  • Collaborate with experts in mathematics, optics, and biophotonics.
  • Communicate growing understanding to the team through chats, talks, and reports.
  • Exploit modeling to drive system specifications.


Qualifications and Experience

  • Significant experience simulating and modeling biomedical systems.
  • Experience validating simulations using experimental data.
  • Experience applying statistical analysis to simulation models.
  • Familiarity with biomedical optics and optical physics.
  • Some experience modeling physiological variability.
  • MATLAB and Python programming expertise.
  • Experience with Monte Carlo modeling of light scattering is a plus.
  • Knowledge of information theory and statistical signal processing is a plus.
  • Desire and ability to work in a highly collaborative environment.

3. Biomedical Scientist (Molecular Diagnostics and NGS)

Reporting to laboratory leadership, the Biomedical Scientist applies molecular biology methods to study samples of moderate complexity using protein and nucleic acid preparation techniques, with a focus on next generation sequencing library preparation and high throughput sequencing platforms. Partnering with team members across lab operations, this role advances diagnostic capabilities by testing new protocols, maintaining detailed records, and contributing to quality laboratory maintenance.


Primary Duties

  • Apply molecular biology methods to study samples of moderate complexity for analysis using protein and nucleic acid preparation techniques.
  • Perform molecular biology techniques including PCR, reverse transcription PCR, RT-PCR, qPCR, DNA Cloning, and CRISPR.
  • Perform electrophoresis, blotting, and hybridization on nucleic acid and protein samples.
  • Perform sequencing techniques such as Sanger and NGS.
  • Prepare next generation sequencing libraries including target enrichment, WGS, and 16S, and perform high throughput sequencing on Illumina and Oxford Nanopore platforms.
  • Test new or modified protocols and chemistries for nucleic acid extraction, library preparation, and sequencing applications.
  • Document experimental results, capture digital images, and maintain detailed laboratory notebooks and tracking spreadsheets.
  • Contribute to basic lab maintenance including restocking, waste removal, organization, and ordering supplies.


Skills and Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Genomics, Microbiology, or related field.
  • Previous experience with molecular biology techniques including PCR, qPCR, nucleic acid extractions, low-input sequencing library preparation, and high throughput sequencing.
  • Advanced knowledge of molecular biology techniques and NGS methodologies.
  • Ability to carry out experiments in a Biological Safety Level 2 laboratory.
  • Competency in UNIX, Mac, and PC platforms and ability to learn custom software applications.
  • Previous experience with laboratory automation.
  • Excellent problem-solving and decision-making skills with ability to troubleshoot experimental processes.
  • Strong organizational and record keeping skills.
  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills for working in a team environment.

4. Biomedical Scientist (Haematology Clinical Services)

Due to our rapid and exciting growth we are looking for a Biomedical Scientist in Haematology to help fill positions in Derby, initially for a 6 month period working 37.5 hours per week. NLG Health is a national framework approved staffing agency, we offer you the flexibility to choose the regularity of your shifts, whether you're looking to work a couple of shifts a week alongside your permanent job or looking to work full-time hours. In return, you'll be valued and respected for your professionalism and expertise, feeling fulfilled by the knowledge of a job well done.


Duties

  • Ensure the patient record is completed in a timely and accurate way.
  • Organise own time and be responsible for appropriate delegation of staff and duties.
  • Maintain effective channels of communication at all times.
  • Comply with policies and procedures relating to Health and Safety, COSHH, Incident Reporting, and the Data Protection Act.
  • Report all accidents and untoward incidents to senior staff and complete electronic reporting system.
  • Deliver patient care in accordance with recognised standards of research-based clinical practice.
  • Ensure that the rights, dignity, and confidentiality of the patient are protected at all times.
  • Work within a flexible working roster to achieve the most effective use of staff for patient requirements.
  • Participate in the on call rota to provide a telephone helpline.


Experience and Qualifications

  • Minimum of 12 months current clinical experience.
  • Extensive experience in morphology.
  • Experience of using Sysmex XN and CS Analysers.
  • Ability to use laboratory computer for data inputting and locating samples for analysis.
  • Flexible, reliable, and able to adapt to different hospital or clinic environments.
  • Excellent communication skills.

5. Biomedical Scientist (Clinical Laboratory Testing)

A key member of the laboratory team, the Biomedical Scientist performs routine lab tests and adheres to quality control policies, COSHH regulations, and established procedures for test handling, processing, analysis, and reporting. Collaborating across clinical and senior laboratory staff, this role ensures test performance integrity by identifying and resolving problems that may adversely affect results.


Functions

  • Perform routine lab tests under the guidance of laboratory leadership.
  • Follow laboratory procedures for test handling, processing, analysis, reporting, and maintaining records of results.
  • Follow COSHH regulations and comply with the laboratory safety policy.
  • Adhere to laboratory quality control policies, document all quality control activities, and conduct instrument and procedural calibrations and all required maintenance.
  • Identify problems that may adversely affect test performance or reporting of test results, correct problems encountered, or immediately notify senior laboratory staff.


Background and Experience

  • BSc (Hons) degree in Biomedical Science or equivalent.
  • Valid registration with Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).
  • Clinical training experience or experience as a Medical Technician.
  • Experience in a clinical laboratory setting or acute care facility, including experience working at a CL2 laboratory or above.
  • Experience working as a Clinical Laboratory Scientist (CLS).
  • Knowledge and practice of standard precautions policies related to handling of potentially infectious agents.
  • Knowledge of safety procedures relating to operation of laboratory equipment and handling of chemicals.

6. Biomedical Scientist (Laboratory Operations and Sample Management)

Accurate diagnostic outcomes depend on the Biomedical Scientist, who undertakes specimen accession, processing, and storage while executing sample testing, validation, and data reporting in line with SOPs and QHSE standards. Based within a laboratory operations team, this role maintains analyser performance through QC and calibration and sustains inventory levels to support uninterrupted clinical service delivery.


Accountabilities

  • Undertake accession, processing, and storage of specimens.
  • Execute sample testing, validation, and communication of results.
  • Generate reports, validate, and manage data.
  • Follow SOPs, health and safety regulations, and organisation standards.
  • Operate analysers and perform QC and calibration.
  • Maintain sufficient inventory of consumables and reagents.


Professional Experience

  • Experience as junior BMS or equivalent position.
  • In-depth knowledge of laboratory best practices and QHSE Systems.
  • Experience with analysers from Werfen, Beckman Coulter, Sebia, Cepheid, and Alifax is favourable.
  • Knowledge of MS Office especially Excel and database systems.
  • Ability to operate and use LIMS.
  • Strong communication skills with ability to work autonomously and under pressure.
  • Quick learning and problem solving skills.

7. Biomedical Scientist (Science, Technology, and Policy)

As the Biomedical Scientist, this role operates at the intersection of experimental chemistry, life science, and national security policy to frame problems, translate user requirements to technology developers, and deliver scalable global security solutions within the OST Division. The division relies on this work to engage foreign partners on nonproliferation norms, evaluate regulatory implications of emerging technologies, and build next generation talent for national security missions.


Job Functions

  • Frame national security problems and translate user requirements to technology developers.
  • Engage foreign partners to promote nonproliferation norms.
  • Evaluate the implications of existing and new technologies on laws, regulations, and policies.
  • Conduct research, assimilate findings, and make policy recommendations.
  • Develop instructional materials for adult audiences.
  • Design and deliver field able solutions into operational environments.
  • Integrate program-level solutions built on policy, regulations, next generation technology, and international operations.


Education and Experience

  • Bachelor's or Master's or PhD degree in experimental or computational chemistry, life science research, chemical engineering, or chemical management, with 5, 3, or 1 years of experience respectively.
  • Educational or professional experience applying technical knowledge to policy challenges including research, findings assimilation, and policy recommendations.
  • Familiarity with national security domain challenges, particularly nonproliferation, chemical and biological arms control, and international treaty verification and monitoring.
  • Exceptional organisational skills and attention to detail.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills including cross-cultural communication.
  • Multidisciplinary curiosity and teaming capability.

8. Biomedical Scientist (Quantitative Proteomics and Biomarkers)

Join us as a scientific leader in cutting-edge quantitative proteomics to commercialize assay workflows and biomarkers for the diagnosis and treatment of human disease, and preventive health.


Biomedical Scientist leads the commercialisation of quantitative ELISA assay workflows and biomarker development across automated platforms at the Precision Biomarkers Laboratories, Cedar-Sinai, translating proteomic insights into biomarker hypotheses verified in large cohort studies. The work directly supports the translation of academic research and clinical healthcare infrastructure into scalable diagnostic and preventive health solutions.


Key Deliverables

  • Lead commercialisation of assay workflows and biomarkers for diagnosis, treatment of human disease, and preventive health.
  • Direct development of state of the art proteomic workflows and work independently to advance technology.
  • Execute proteomic workflow from sample preparation to data analysis.
  • Develop novel, high-performance quantitative ELISA assays across automated platforms.
  • Conduct data analysis and interpret biological meaning from proteomic findings.
  • Manage multiple projects and timelines in a fast-paced clinical and product development environment.
  • Translate insights using proteomics into biomarker hypotheses verified in large cohort studies.


Minimum Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Biochemistry, or related science or engineering field; Master's or Doctorate preferred.
  • Minimum 8 years of experience in a GMP or GLP or equivalent regulated facility.
  • BSc, MS, or PhD with more than 3 years of professional experience in ELISA proteomics with direct application to human health.
  • Strong theoretical understanding of protein biochemistry and practical knowledge of analytical validation.
  • In-depth understanding of various quantitation technologies and their clinical applications.
  • Extensive experience in instrumentation, troubleshooting, QC, and standardisation for proteomics workflow and pipeline development.
  • Experience with immunoaffinity, molecular biology, and cell culture is desirable.
  • Previous industry experience is a plus.

9. Biomedical Scientist (Medical Device Biocompatibility)

The Biomedical Scientist owns biocompatibility assessment activities across multiple product pipelines, leading technical documentation, risk and impact assessments, and vendor management in alignment with ISO 11979-5 and 10993 standards. Working closely with internal customers, external vendors, and global regulatory teams, this role delivers high quality protocols, reports, and study strategies that support product and marketing claims across international markets.


Role Responsibilities

  • Lead activities related to biocompatibility assessment for several pipelines and existing products, encompassing technical documentation, risk and impact assessments, validation assessment, and vendor management.
  • Actively contribute to biocompatibility related strategy, alternative pathways, and approaches to risk assessment and mitigation.
  • Execute and finalise protocols, reports, and other technical documentations for biocompatibility studies.
  • Collaborate with internal customers and external vendors to achieve alignment and spearhead activities supporting biocompatibility related testing.
  • Review global regulatory requirements to assure all biocompatibility studies and documents align with current global standards.
  • Develop strategies and execute studies to support product claims and marketing claims for global markets.
  • Support regulatory submissions globally as needed.
  • Identify, communicate with, and manage existing and new vendors.


Knowledge Skills and Abilities

  • Bachelor's degree in science and engineering or related fields; Master's degree or PhD preferred.
  • Minimum 3 years of experience in biomedical research in medical device with a focus on ISO 11979-5 and 10993 standards and testing.
  • Familiarity with risk, impact, and validation assessments.
  • Exposure and experience in the IOL industry is preferred.
  • Adept in ISO 11979-5 and 10993 series of standards.
  • Analytical, detail-oriented, and ability to deliver high quality projects on time within budget and scope.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills in technical and non-technical areas.
  • Ability to multi-task in a fast-paced environment.

10. Biomedical Scientist (NHS Diagnostic Laboratory)

Your role will see you working across various departments, including operating theatres and accident and emergency, carrying out a range of laboratory and scientific tests that analyse fluids and tissue samples from patients, identifying diseases and providing reports that highlight the effectiveness of potential treatments.


Day-to-Day Responsibilities

  • Carry out routine and specialist analytical testing on a range of biological samples.
  • Provide test results to medical staff to diagnose and treat patient illness.
  • Perform urgent analytical testing as required.
  • Identify abnormal or unexpected results and report back to requesting clinicians.
  • Operate and maintain specialist laboratory equipment.
  • Develop new methods of investigation and stay up to date with diagnostic innovations.
  • Supervise, mentor, and support trainee biomedical scientists and other support staff.
  • Support quality management systems and observe all relevant health and safety regulations.


Technical Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Healthcare Science (life sciences) or a biomedical science degree accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS) and approved by the HCPC.
  • Registration with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).
  • Minimum 2 years post-graduate experience, including 6 months recent NHS experience within the last 3 years.
  • Superior verbal communication skills with active listening skills.
  • Excellent attention to detail and a systematic approach to tasks.
  • Ability to work well under pressure with excellent timekeeping and a flexible attitude.

11. Biomedical Scientist (Laboratory Quality and Validation)

Embedded within a growing molecular diagnostics and pathology services company, the Biomedical Scientist manages installation, validation, and verification of laboratory equipment and assays while supervising junior staff to maintain service quality across Haematology, Biochemistry, and Immunology specialisms. Working closely with the Chief Scientific Officer and external vendors, this role refines laboratory performance against KPIs and upholds the Quality Management System to support clinical service delivery to private healthcare providers.


Strategic Responsibilities

  • Manage the installation, validation, and verification process for laboratory equipment and assays.
  • Liaise with vendors to arrange training and manage instrumentation issues.
  • Manage and supervise a team of junior staff in performing their general duties.
  • Provide training and oversee competence for junior staff.
  • Report and manage laboratory quality related issues in line with the Quality Management System and corresponding regulatory standards.
  • Review laboratory performance in line with laboratory KPIs.


Experience and Qualifications

  • HCPC registration.
  • Proven experience working as a Biomedical Scientist within Haematology, Biochemistry, or Immunology disciplines.
  • Experience with a wide range of analysers both point of care and laboratory based.
  • Experience in writing technical SOPs.
  • Experience in validation and verification of new equipment and assays.
  • Strong attention to detail with excellent organisational skills and ability to juggle multiple projects with different priorities.

Editorial Process and Content Quality

This content is developed by the Lamwork Editorial Team using structured analysis of real-world job data, skill requirements, and hiring patterns.

Research framework by Lam Nguyen, Founder & Editorial Lead.

Reviewed by Thanh Huyen, Managing Editor.

Learn more about our editorial standards.