Pathologists' Assistant (Medical Laboratory Technologist)

About the role

The Pathologists' Assistant performs macroscopic examination, description and dissection of tissue specimens and submits the necessary tissue so that clinically significant pathologic diagnoses can be obtained. The role supports pathologists and medical technologists through the entire test process (pre-analytical, analytical and post-analytical) in Anatomic Pathology.

Key responsibilities

• Gross (macroscopically examine, describe and sample) simple to complex tissue specimens and photograph them and their associated microscopic slides when needed.
• Sample tissue for other laboratory tests such as microbiology and flow cytometry, and for tissue repositories or research projects under supervision.
• Perform intra-operative tissue sampling under supervision.
• Obtain relevant information from medical history, including previous procedures, imaging, laboratory investigations and toxicology.
• Ensure grossing follows protocols, accreditation standards and regulatory requirements, and that descriptions and measurements are accurate.
• Provide slides, images and clinical information to pathologists before multidisciplinary meetings such as Tumour Board meetings.
• Train, monitor and assess the competency of medical technologists, medical officers or residents, and take part in teaching laboratory personnel.
• Handle specimen reception, order entry and other laboratory duties as assigned.
• Follow laws, regulations and hospital policies, complete continuing medical education, take part in quality improvement programmes and carry out other duties directed by the Laboratory Manager.

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree in biomedical science or equivalent, or a Master's degree in biomedical science or equivalent.
• Diploma with relevant experience and competency.
• At least two years of work in a clinical laboratory.
• Experience in a healthcare setting certified by a recognised accreditation body.