Medical Laboratory Assistant

Job description

Job Title: Medical Laboratory Assistant – Specimen Reception Lead

Location: Central London, UK

Job Type: Full-time, Permanent

Salary: £27,000 – £32,000 (depending on experience)

Closing Date: 17 April 2026

About Us

Advance Histopathology Laboratory Ltd (AHLab) is a private, UKAS-accredited (ISO 15189) laboratory based in central London. We specialise in delivering fast, high-quality histopathology services for outpatient biopsies and surgical procedures, working closely with clinicians to support excellent patient care.

The Role

We are seeking a motivated and experienced Medical Laboratory Assistant (MLA) to take on a Specimen Reception Lead role within our histology laboratory.

This is a key position responsible for overseeing the specimen reception function, ensuring accurate sample handling, timely processing, and full compliance with quality and accreditation standards. The successful candidate will play an important role in maintaining workflow efficiency and supporting team development.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and coordinate daily activities within specimen reception
• Ensure accurate receipt, identification, and booking-in of specimens
• Maintain compliance with UKAS (ISO 15189) standards and internal SOPs
• Oversee sample traceability and data entry accuracy
• Support and assist in the training and supervision of MLA staff
• Act as a point of contact for internal queries relating to specimen reception
• Escalate and document non-conformances and specimen issues appropriately
• Work collaboratively with the wider laboratory team to support turnaround times

Person Specification

Essential:

• Previous experience working in a histology or pathology laboratory
• Strong understanding of specimen reception processes and sample handling
• Excellent organisational and attention to detail skills
• Good communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment

Desirable:

• Experience in training or mentoring staff
• Familiarity with laboratory quality systems (UKAS / ISO 15189)
• Previous experience in a lead or senior MLA role
• What We Offer
• Opportunity to work in a high-quality, consultant-led laboratory
• Supportive and collaborative working environment
• Exposure to advanced histopathology workflows and systems
• Ongoing opportunities for training and development

Equality & Diversity

We are committed to promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion within our workforce. We uphold the principles of the Equality Act and operate a zero-tolerance approach to discrimination, harassment, or victimisation.

How to Apply

Please request for an application by emailing c.porter@ahlab.co.uk and submit your application by 17 April 2026.

For further details/informal visits contact: Hodan Jama on h.jama@ahlab.co.uk.

We reserve the right to close posts early if we receive a sufficient volume of applications.

We are committed to equal opportunities and welcome applications from all sections of the community and thank you for your interest in our company. Successful candidates will be invited for an interview.

Extra information

Status

Open

Education Level

Secondary School

Location

London Area

Type of Contract

Full Time Jobs

Published at

20-03-2026

Full UK/EU driving license preferred

No

Car Preferred

No

Must be eligible to work in the EU

No

Cover Letter Required

No

Languages

English